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Franklin Duane A. Madriñan, Philippines
Mr. Franklin Duane A. Madriñan graduated magna cum laude and program awardee of the Development Studies Program from the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU). Over the years, he has worked with the youth, ethnic minorities, and internally displaced persons (IDPs) on community organizing and storytelling. In 2022, he brought the story of Bukidnon's IP youth to international discourse as a Full Scholar at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. In 2023, he led projects on youth empowerment and co-convened initiatives for humane and inclusive spaces as President of the Development Society of the Ateneo (DevSoc). Today, he helps transform the country’s education sector as an Executive Assistant at the Department of Science and Technology - Science Education Institute (DOST-SEI).
Jayson Bunyao Abad, Philippines
Jayson holds a degree in Sociology from Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology, graduating Summa Cum Laude. He has been part of a team of Social Media Researchers at Internews, where he monitored disinformation in the Philippines. In 2023, he addressed global leaders at the UN Human Rights Council Social Forum, sharing his insights on the impact of disinformation on human rights and elections. Currently, Jayson works with the Westminster Foundation for Democracy, contributing to efforts to strengthen democratic stability in the Bangsamoro, Philippines. He is also actively engaged in youth empowerment initiatives, including voter education campaigns. Jayson has represented the Philippines at the 2023 Youth Regional Affairs Dialogue at NTU Singapore and the 2024 Young ASEAN Leaders Policy Initiative at Chulalongkorn University, Thailand. He was also honoured as one of the 25 Under 25 Global Legacy Awardees for 2024 by Common Purpose, a global non-profit organisation.
Ninna Cabrera Nasayao, Philippines
Ms. Ninna C. Nasayao graduated with honors from Bicol University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. She currently works with a non-government organization that empowers citizens to strengthen their communities and actively engage with its local government. Beyond her professional work, Ninna serves as Secretary of the youth council in her barangay, where she contributes by drafting proposals, writing letters, and representing the council in fellowships and events focused on environmental governance and human rights. She is also a passionate advocate for animal welfare and responsible pet parenting, dedicating her time as a volunteer with Street Paws Naga. Through her advocacy and community work, Ninna aspires to be “a voice for the voiceless,” championing causes that uplift both people and animals alike.
Marcus Andre Cutaran Villanueva, Philippines
Mr. Andre Villanueva is a Computer Science student passionate about data analytics, data governance, and software development. He has built web applications for startups and organizations, and he has developed corporate dashboards during internships at GCash, the Philippines’ largest fintech company; ING, one of Europe’s leading banks; and Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan.
Beyond his technical expertise, he has worked with various NGOs and organizations, leading initiatives in community volunteerism and education technology. He is currently driving efforts to advance quantum education in the Philippines.
Aaron S. Sinangote, Philippines
Mr. Aaron S. Sinangote is a 4th-year Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology student at Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU). He serves as the Head of the Disaster Risk Reduction Management Committee of the AdDU National Service Reserve Corps (NSRC) and is a founding Board Member of Sibol Santa Cruz, a youth-led NGO empowering the youth of Santa Cruz in nation-building. A former President of the Mindanawon Anthropological Society of the Ateneo, Aaron has been actively involved in public advocacies and civic engagement programs. With a passion for meaningful conversations and the exploration of spaces, he views anthropology as both a tool for gaining knowledge and a lens for critically unlearning ingrained perspectives. This approach shapes his understanding of the world and informs the values he seeks to uphold.
Keziah Loucille P. Mallorca, Philippines
Ms. Keziah Loucille P. Mallorca is currently the Program Officer for Volunteer Formation and Advocacy under the Social Involvement and Advocacy Program (SIAP) of Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Bachelor of Arts in International Studies in the same institution in 2022. During her years in university, she was an active student- leader, holding various leadership positions and projects. She is affiliated with the National Citizens’ Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL) and serves as the Co-Coordinator for NAMFREL CDO-MISOR Chapter. Keziah actively volunteers in various civic engagements such as feeding programs, relief operations, environmental initiatives, media information and literacy trainings, voters’ education, among others.
Kristian Noel I Yang Solas, Philippines
Kristian Noel Solas currently serves as the Sangguniang Kabataan Chairperson of Barangay Rubber, Polomolok, South Cotabato. He is a champion of the Blaan Tribe, one of the Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines, and was recognized as an Outstanding Indigenous People of Polomolok in Academics last year. Kristian graduated with Latin honors in Bachelor of Secondary Education, Major in Biology, and is currently pursuing his postgraduate studies, specializing in Biology. An advocate for youth empowerment and the advancement of Indigenous Peoples, where he actively participates in various community initiatives while fulfilling his responsibilities as an elected public official. He believes that his position goes beyond politics, viewing it as a commitment driven by purpose and vision.
Margaret Mary De Asis, Philippines
Ms. Margaret Mary De Asis graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of the Philippines Visayas in 2023 and earned her license as a registered psychometrician in 2024. She currently works at the Negrosanon Young Leaders Institute, a youth- led civil society organization, as the Mental Health Worker. She also serves as the Program Officer for the Center for Health and Well-Being and leads Building Bridges, a project that integrates HIV care with mental health, psychosocial support, and trauma-informed interventions. Margaret directs her efforts toward advancing mental health, child and youth development, and holistic care in diverse capacities. Her goal is to ensure no child is left behind, with proper nurturance during their formative years, and to create supportive, safe spaces where individuals can foster hope and care within their communities.
Gabriel Villaruel, Philippines
Gabriel Villaruel is a creative industries advocate and a visionary leader who utilizes the transformative power of the arts to promote cultural, social, and youth development within his community on Alabat Island, Quezon Province. He is renowned for his diverse range of creative capabilities, including theater-making, directing, writing, dancing, choreography, and multimedia production.
As one of the driving forces behind PINTAKASI, a youth-led multi-arts organization, he has harnessed the talents of over 500 artists and volunteers to inspire social change through the arts, eventually being honored as one of the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations nationwide at the prestigious 20th TAYO Awards. This commitment to using the arts as a catalyst for social cohesion has earned him recognition as a fellow of the Leadership and Democracy (LEAD) Fellowship of Youthled (a joint project of USAID and The Asia Foundation) and also as a graduate of the Asian Institute of Management under the Future Bridging Leaders Program Cohort 5.
Cyril John Lacsi, Philippines
Cyril John Lacsi is a Licensed Professional Teacher and graduate of Social Science Education from the Philippine Normal University, where he received the Dominador J Salas Leadership Award. He served as an Ambassador of UNESCO Club Philippines and was recognized as the Outstanding UNESCO Youth Club Leader of the Philippines in 2022.
Cyril's advocacy covers the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, Deliberative Democracy, and Civic Education. He has spoken at prominent events like the United Nations Association of the Philippines International Youth Day and Osaka University SDG Inspirational Video in 2023. He previously led the PNU UNESCO Club as Director General and was a secretariat of the National Coordinating Body of UNESCO Clubs in the Philippines. Cyril was also the Vice-Chairperson for External Affairs of the Coalition of NCR Youth Leaders and a member of the Youthled coalition in the Philippines.
Cyril believes in equal representation and consensus-based decision-making.
Ivy Geraldine Dulay Ferrer, Philippines
Ms. Ivy Geraldine Dulay Ferrer graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography at the University of the Philippines Diliman. She is a photographer with a keen interest in the environment, society, and sports. She is currently the Program Officer for Climate and Disaster Resilience at the Ateneo Institute of Sustainability and leads Green Dreams of a Generation, a youth-led, non-profit organization focused on climate storytelling. She has honed her leadership and organizational skills through her involvement with various school-wide, volunteer, and non-government organizations. Her areas of interest include quality quotidian life, disaster resilience, science communication, and photojournalism.
Anthony Adrian V. Cale, Philippines
Mr. Anthony Adrian V. Cale is an Environmental Engineer currently pursuing his master’s degree at the University of the Philippines Diliman, where his specialization mainly focuses on research in environmental systems, specifically rainwater harvesting systems and using geographic data for decision making and analysis. He co-founded a climate-tech organization called O1nnovations - Rainwater Solutions Corp. where they harness the power of rain to empower communities by providing them access to water and generating electricity. His startup secured a total of USD 3,800 from grants and prizes to support in building a floating sanitation facility with a rainwater harvesting system in a floating community in his province as well as building more rainwater harvesting systems in the community. He believes that “what we learn in school should inspire us to make a difference and benefit our communities.”
Angelyra Puyawan Serapio, Philippines
Ms. Angelyra Puyawan Serapio, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology with Honors from Mindanao State University - General Santos City, Philippines. Currently, Angelyra is pursuing a law degree at the same institution. She is passionate about environmental conservation and aims to leverage her academic background to advocate for sustainable practices and active restoration of marine ecosystems. She has participated in various marine conservation initiatives, working alongside governmental agencies such as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Department of Tourism, as well as organizations like Earth Island Institute Philippines, Earth Island Outdoor Environmental Club, Drive and Dive Sarangani, and Spectrum Inc. She believes that "methods are obvious, what’s hard is accomplishing them” and aspires to contribute to policies that safeguard the environment for future generations.
Ryan Gerard Comendador Zafra, Philippines
Mr. Ryan Gerard C. Zafra, a graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Forestry, completed his degree as Magna Cum Laude at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB). He is a registered professional forester (RPF) in the Philippines, whose work involves community development through stakeholder collaborations and assessment of forest landscapes through GIS technologies. He is passionate about extension work, primarily through capacity-building initiatives and the application of geospatial solutions in improving the quality of life of local communities. He firmly believes that “awareness leads to knowledge, and knowledge results in informed decision-making.”
Johnkarl Eduard Manimbo, Philippines
Johnkarl Manimbo is a chemical engineering graduate from the University of the Philippines with a deep passion for sustainability and education. He currently works as a sustainability specialist at an FMCG company, where he focuses on developing impactful programs to address pressing environmental challenges.
Johnkarl has a strong academic interest in environmental impact assessment, sustainable practices, and carbon footprint reduction. He believes in the power of education to drive meaningful change. During his undergraduate years, he managed his studies while also working as a part-time tutor and volunteering as a campus first-aider, striving to support others through knowledge and service. He hopes to empower people from different backgrounds to take action, believing that sustainability is not just an initiative but a shared responsibility.
Jennalyn Venegas, Philippines
Ms. Jennalyn A. Venegas is a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture student at the University of the Philippines Los Baños, majoring in Agronomy and specializing in Plant Breeding. Passionate about sustainability, she integrates research and technology to promote climate-smart agriculture. Her work focuses on agricultural innovation, developing resilient crops, and improving farming systems through science and technology.
Her journey has taken her across borders—from studying at Mendel University in the Czech Republic, where she excelled in Applied Genetics, Environmental Ethics, and Agroclimatology and completed research internships in Molecular Biology and Precision Agriculture, to exploring Plant Microbiology at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology.
She envisions a future where agriculture is a thriving, technology-driven sector that uplifts rural communities and ensures global food security. Through her work, she hopes to inspire the next generation to see agriculture not just as a livelihood but as a powerful force for sustainability and progress.
Elecah Maye Alindogan, Philippines
Elecah Maye Alindogan is currently an Executive Assistant to the Secretary of the Department of Finance and Member of the Monetary Board of the Central Bank of the Philippines. Elecah is a Liaison Officer for the International Finance Group (IFG), Information Management Services (IMS), Climate Finance Policy Group (CFPG), Corporate Sector and Strategic Infrastructure Group (CSSIG), and Policy Development and Management Services Group (PDMSG).
In 2024, she represented the Philippines in the Yenching Global Symposium in Beijing, China. In 2023, she started Ahon, a start-up social enterprise in collaboration with a company in Seoul, South Korea. Elecah graduated Magna Cum Laude from De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde with a Bachelor of Arts in Diplomacy and International Affairs. Since graduating Valedictorian in High School, Elecah is earnestly engaged in political economic events as she believes that “the real economic investment is population improvement.”
Mary Charlagne Thomas, Philippines
Ms. Mary Charlagne Thomas graduated with a degree of BSBA Business Management Honors Program at Ateneo De Naga University, with an honorary distinction of Cum Laude and placed second overall in her batch as the Batch’s Best Female for the Class of 2024. In addition, she received the silver achievement award for being an alumna of the two most prestigious student leadership programs in the Philippines namely: The Ayala Young Leaders Congress, and the AmCham Business Leadership Program wherein she ranked 3rd place in the Business Case Competition and was awarded as best in capstone project for her advocacy project directed to the Person with Disabilities for better work opportunities and economic empowerment in the Pathways Fellowship Program Cohort 2 of Siklab Pilipinas. In addition, she is an active servant leader by being a volunteer of different organizations wherein she spearheaded projects involving donations drives, people-centered activities and outreaches.
Jaylou Lamila Havana, Philippines
Jaylou L. Havana is a 4th-year BS Economics student at MSU-IIT with a strong commitment to community development, youth empowerment, and environmental sustainability. Actively involved in various leadership and volunteer roles, Jaylou is dedicated to making a positive impact through education, innovation, and sustainable initiatives.
Jaylou's achievements include winning 3rd Most Innovative Idea at IDEYA, 1st Runner-Up in the NATCCO Plant a Seed Home Gardening Contest 2023, and 2nd Place in the Thriving Plant-Enthusiast competition in 2024. Additionally, Jaylou has been recognized for contributions to environmental projects such as coastal clean-ups and mangrove planting, and earned the Youth Development Achievement Award. Serving as the Mayor of the Junior Economics Society and Junior Philippines Economics Society Ambassador, Jaylou also holds key roles as Vice Chairperson for Economic Empowerment in the Local Youth Development Plan and as a BOD Youth Member of MSU-IIT NMPC. Jaylou is passionate about driving meaningful social change and promoting youth engagement.
Erika Violago Belena, Philippines
Ms. Erika Belena graduated cum laude with a B.S. Management (Honors) degree from Ateneo de Manila University, where she received the prestigious John Gokongwei School of Management Program Award. Passionate about community development, she actively volunteered with Sidhá, a youth organization in her hometown of San Jose City, participating in feeding programs and tutoring initiatives for underprivileged children.
From 2021 to 2024, Erika deepened her expertise in agriculture through her family’s rice business, gaining insightful experience in the agricultural value chain. She now works in Business Development at Arvisusten, an investment firm backing sustainable ventures in bamboo, flowers, coconuts, and vegetables.
A strong advocate for sustainable business and food security, Erika believes that entrepreneurship and innovation in agriculture can empower communities and drive economic growth. She sees sustainable agriculture as both a carbon solution and a key economic driver, capable of addressing climate challenges while building a more resilient economy.
Patricia Joy Rabuya Abarquez, Philippines
Ms. Patricia Joy Rabuya Abarquez graduated with Latin honors from the Ateneo de Manila University, earning a dual degree in BS Chemistry and BS Materials Science and Engineering. As President of the Ateneo Chemistry Society, she led the organization to win the 2023 Loyola Schools Awards for Leadership and Service by spearheading community-based projects that highlighted the role of chemistry in social development. A scientist at heart, Patricia believes science, technology, and innovation are key to solving today’s most pressing challenges. Beyond the laboratory, she actively volunteers in outreach programs geared toward science education and communication. She is committed to bridging the gap between academia and the community by developing innovations that are inclusive and accessible to all, ensuring that no one is left behind.
John Michael Basilio, Philippines
John Michael is a Physics student from the University of the Philippines Baguio. He is specializing in semiconductor and quantum materials focusing on solar cell research. He is passionate about addressing the Philippines’ energy crisis, which drives his goal of providing sustainable electricity to underserved communities.
Beyond academics, John actively pursues social impact initiatives. He previously attended the DLSU Filipino Youth Summit under the Urban Planning and Infrastructure and Civic Engagement pillar, which deepened his commitment to sustainable development. As the Layout Editor for UPB Outcrop, the official student publication of UPB, he has honed his skills in advocacy and leadership. His involvement in organizing relief efforts for typhoon-hit communities in Aurora further shaped his vision of bridging innovation, research, and grassroots solutions.
John believes that by combining scientific expertise with civic responsibility, it is possible to empower communities and create meaningful change for a more sustainable future.
Brin Raizulli Isaac, Philippines
Ms. Brin Raizulli Isaac is an MA Philippine Studies student specializing in foreign relations at the University of the Philippines Diliman. She graduated with a BA in Asian Studies from the University of Santo Tomas in 2023 and has held leadership roles in TomasinoWeb, the premier digital media organization of her undergraduate university. As a former campus journalist, Brin has produced more than 40 stories, founded four websites, and won two Philippine Student Quill Awards. In 2021, she was the sole Philippine delegate to win “Best Delegate” in the ASEAN-China Young Leaders Summit. Since 2024, Brin has been engaged with the Pacific Forum’s Young Leaders Program where she will be contributing to policy discussions with experts on critical regional issues. Currently, she is a Project Associate for the Gas Policy Development Project 3 and the Executive Secretary of the Philippine International Law of the Sea Academy.
Stephen Daeniel Mansueto, Philippines
Stephen Daeniel Mansueto is a junior studying Management Engineering at the Ateneo de Manila University (Philippines). Passionate about business and social impact, Stephen uses business skills to lead capacity-building eCorts for and with the youth. He is currently a Venture Associate Intern at Embiggen Ventures, and a competing member of the ADMU- JGSOM Business Case Competition Varsity. Concurrently, he is an Organization Development Consultant at Ateneo CODE, and is one of 6 Filipino youth leaders who participated in AJCU-AP’s 14th Global Leadership Program. Previously, he was the Logistics head of XChange 2024, a youth empowerment seminar which invited ~150 leaders from all over the Philippines. Within the next 5 years, he aspires to develop and scale an edtech startup focused on democratizing opportunities for out-of-school children. In his free time, Stephen likes to hang out with friends and binge-watch shows.
Albiean “Bie” Revalde, Philippines
Ms. Albiean “Bie” Revalde is the youngest international trans pageant queen, holding the titles of Miss Trans Global Philippines 2021 and Duchess Global 2021. She became the first transgender president of the Central Student Council at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), the country’s most populous university. A dedicated advocate, she co-founded FRUITY, the youth arm of LoveYourself Inc., and actively champions LGBTQ+ and women's rights, as well as HIV and AIDS awareness. Currently a senior Industrial Engineering student at PUP and Lean Six Sigma-certified, she balances her studies with a career as an emerging fashion model, creative, and content creator. As an ambassadress for LoveYourself Inc., Bie continues to use her platform to push for inclusivity, empowerment, and meaningful representation
Aaron Ernest Ang, Philippines
Mr. Aaron Ernest Ang graduated from Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) in 2021. He is a Product Integration Officer at the Bank of the Philippine Islands and is passionate about the role of digitalization in democratizing financial services. His experience in e-commerce and fintech enriches his work, especially project management. As a student, Aaron was VP of Project Management in the Rizal Library Ambassadors and AVP of Finance in Ateneo Psyche (a mental health organization). He has represented the Philippines for the Philippine-Korean Youth Forum (PYKF) and joined cultural exchange events and ocean conservation programs.
Aaron’s volunteer journey began in 2024. He is on the social media team of CARA Welfare, an animal protection organization. He is also starting to step up in his local neighborhood where he helps organize (and performs at) book launches, weekend markets, and open mics. He is also a published author and journalist.
Adam Emmanuel Balabag Guanzon, Philippines
Adam Emmanuel B. Guanzon graduated with a degree in AB Economics from Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, where he was recognized as an AMDG Outstanding Student Leader and a recipient of the Fr. William Nicholson Full Scholarship. He also co-authored an economics research that was honored as the Best Undergraduate Thesis in Economics, highlighting challenges experienced by provincial farmers of Misamis Oriental. Throughout his academic and extracurricular experiences, Adam has been driven by a commitment to policy advocacy, project mobilization, and leadership development. His work combines data-driven strategies, principles of good governance, and a passion for empowering communities. Adam is dedicated to bridging the gap between vision and action by fostering growth that is inclusive, uplifting, and impactful for the individuals and communities he serves. He believes that leadership rooted in empathy and collaboration can drive meaningful, sustainable change that resonates with those on the ground.
Ms. Phoebe Mae Guanzon Magabilin, Philippines
Ms. Phoebe Mae G. Magabilin is a Bachelor of Science in Management student at the University of the Philippines Visayas and was awarded as one of the Top Ten Outstanding Jose Rizal Model Students of the Philippines. She is an advocate of economic empowerment executed through establishing the ArtisanRise Policy in her term as the former Chief External Officer of the UPV Junior Executive Society, which enhanced the market presence and growth potential of local artisans. She also led financial literacy programs for students as the former president of the UPV Capital Market Investors Guild. In addition, she currently serves as the Chairperson of the Sangguniang Kabataan Council of San Angel, San Jose, and Antique. She also actively volunteers in promoting the Sustainable Development Goals by being part of Ulikid PH, a province-wide youth organization. She believes in the potential of the youth to bridge management concepts closer to communities.
Giselle Ibba Tiamwatt, Philippines
She graduated as an Airline Management and Stewardship with special award of Proficiency in Debate and Argumentation. She also graduated as Bachelor of Science in Tourism with Area Leadership Award and Area Service Award. She was the former President of Tourism Society, Student Government Council Ambassador, and Alumni Vice President of the Pilar College of Zamboanga City, Incorporated. In 2023, she completed the 18th Series Shari’ah Training and Seminar conducted by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos in coordination with the Supreme Court of the Philippines with special award as “Best Defense Counsel” during the Mock Trials in Special Procedure in Shari’ah Courts. She also earned her 27 Units in Master of Public Administration. She is an advocate of quality education and leadership because she believes that the future is in the hands of young people, and the kind of young people we will have today, will the kind of leaders we have in the future.
Stewart Elvira Laging, Philippines
Mr. Stewart E. Laging earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) with Latin honors. He currently serves as a Local Government Operations Officer in the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region VI. Before joining the Philippine bureaucracy, he worked with the Non- Governmental Organizations (NGOs) focusing on the health and educator sectors. His involvement with NGOs allowed him to gain grassroots knowledge about power dynamics and the multi-faceted issues in their community, inspiring him to work with the government. He believes that development is a value-laden concept thus, leaders should pay attention to enhancing the democratization of our institutions.
Kyle Dane Yocogan Ballogan, Philippines
Kyle Dane Y. Ballogan is a dynamic and emerging scholar-practitioner in political science and legal studies with demonstrated experience in international relations, diplomacy, and policy research. Currently pursuing a Master of Legal Studies at the University of Baguio, he holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science (Cum Laude) from the University of the Cordilleras, where he also held a key leadership role.
Kyle has gained robust international exposure through research and internship/volunteer positions with organizations such as the Nepal Institute for International Cooperation and Engagement (NIICE), E-International Relations (E-IR), and the Sage Institute for Foreign Affairs. His work includes diplomatic analysis, editorial review, and international database development. He has also served in a volunteer diplomatic externship with the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs-OUCSCA, where he was trained in public diplomacy and consular services.
Oliver Magno Tabangin, Philippines
Oliver M. Tabangin is currently a 4th year College Student taking up Bachelor of Science in Management Accounting. Oliver is a Municipal Councilor and has been legislating resolutions and ordinances for her town. She is both a public servant a servant leader of her town. She is known in participating into a lot of volunteer works like weekly clean-up drive in her place and trainings and seminars on good governance. She is also a member of the National Movement of Young Legislators (NMYL) in the Philippines. Oliver always believed of what Aristotle said; “The basis of a democratic state is liberty”.
Fred Louie T. Donguez, Philippines
Fred Louie T. Donguez is a Summa Cum Laude graduate of BA Political Science with a Diploma in Public Management and a Certificate in International Studies from the University of St. La Salle, where he is now a second-year Juris Doctor student.
Ranked 1st in the 2023 Outstanding Student Leaders of the Philippines (OSLP) by TRAC, Inc., he previously served as Executive President of the University Student Government. He has represented the Philippines in international programs such as the ASEAN Young Leaders Program, AYALA Young Leaders Congress, and the International Association La Salle Universities Leadership Programme.
He works as a Project Development Officer, Legal Assistant, and Researcher for the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental and was a Private Consultant for the House of Representatives. An advocate for good governance, civic participation, and animal welfare, he champions data-driven, accountable leadership and believes governance must actively engage the people it serves.
Gabrielle Leeman Imperial, Philippines
Gabrielle Leeman Imperial graduated with Honors in Political Science from the University of Amsterdam. She is currently a Legislative Officer at the Senate of the Philippines, working under a social democratic Senator, where she focuses on youth policy, investigative hearings on human trafficking, and youth engagement initiatives.
During university, Gabrielle was deeply involved in student politics. She co-founded 020Together, a student political party at the University of Amsterdam, and served as the University of Amsterdam Officer for the Amsterdam Honors Student Council. Additionally, she mentored students at Upgrade Education, helping them develop impactful projects.
Gabrielle has a strong interest in voting behavior and exploring ways to make government more transparent and accountable. Passionate about education, social justice, and anti-corruption efforts, she is dedicated to fostering greater equality and meaningful change in the country.
Pacaña, Phejay Baltonado. Philippines
Hon. Phejay Pacaña is a passionate youth leader and community advocate, serving as the SK Chairperson of Barangay Banate. A graduate of the University of Southeastern Philippines with a degree in Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education, Cum Laude. Phejay has consistently excelled in academics and leadership, earning numerous awards such as the Division Leadership Award and victories in municipal competitions.
Beyond public service, Phejay is deeply rooted in his faith, serving as a church lector, catechist, and part of the church media team. He holds key roles in various organizations, including Former President of Iskolar ng Bayan ng Malungon, and President of the Malungon Youth Movement. A former SSG and SPG President, Phejay has a proven track record in empowering the youth and leading impactful initiatives. With achievements spanning education, public service, and advocacy, he is dedicated to creating meaningful change in his community while inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Joshua Aaron Norteza Hubahib, Philippines
Mr. Joshua Aaron Norteza Hubahib is a 4th-year Bachelor of Arts in Political Science student at St. Peter’s College, Iligan, and a consistent dean’s lister since his junior year. He graduated as Valedictorian in Senior High School at Acelo Badelles Sr. Memorial High School (2019–2020).
An active youth leader, he served as Federated Supreme Student Government President in the Department of Education–Division of Iligan City (2019–2020). He is also a dedicated humanitarian volunteer with the Philippine Red Cross, beginning his service at 12 under the Red Cross Youth Services. For over 11 years, he has held roles such as Chapter Youth Council Vice President-Internal, Instructor and Training Facilitator.
Mr. Hubahib has earned numerous accolades, including the Red Cross Youth Humanitarian Leadership Award, YAPIS Outstanding Leadership Award, and JCI Iligan City Youth Leadership Excellence Award, reflecting his commitment to leadership and service.