IYD 2010 BUILT BRIDGES OF PEACE AROUND THE COUNTRY AND THE WORLD

This year is declared by the United Nations as the International Year of the Youth. In the Philippines, It has been a tradition to celebrate the International Youth Day. Last August 10 -12, 2010 More than 300 young people classified as leaders from their respective places, students from the country and foreigners; celebrated the International Youth Day at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).

In line to this years theme given by the UN, “Dialogue and Mutual Understanding”, The United nations Association-Philippines, United Nations Youth Association –Philippines, together with the Commission on Human Rights and the National Youth Commission; organized fun and learning series of activities pertaining to this years PH’s theme, “Strengthening Peace and Human right education among the youth: Key to sustainable development”.

This year, Director Ana Elzy Ofreneo from the Commission on Human rights and Ms. Anna Karina Jardin, the youth counter part from the Lyceum of the Philippines University are the over-all chairman and co-chair respectively. All of the delegates were welcomed by the Manila City Mayor, Alfredo Lim. The award winning Ilo Ilo Youth Orchestra is also present to serenade the crowd during the opening and closing ceremony of the event. Prominent people like Boy Abunda, facilitated and spoke at the event to give inspiration to the future leaders of the world. The UNRC Dr. Jacquelin Badcock is the one who opened the gallery of works by the delegates. She was delighted by the synergy that has been created through the efforts of the young people present.

The pool of speakers this year came from the Philippine National Police, Commission on Human Rights, United Nations System, Girl Scouts of the Philippines, John Robert Powers, Department of Justice, and the National Youth Commission.

Through the plenary and concurrent sessions, all the delegates were able to grasp the essence of the theme which is peace and Human rights. The creative groupings were set and headed by MS. Gina Barte, Mr. Rob Hayden, Mr. Orville Tiamson and Ms Riza Vale. This part of the conference showcased the innovation, dynamism, and creativity of the youth. The cultural presentation is the collective outputs varied into the form of performing arts, visual arts, poetry and singing, and also dramatics, everybody did great. That is what we call synergy among the youth in action.

August 12, 2010 is the launching day of the International Year of the Youth, the delegates along with other interested people come together to run for peace and human rights at the Quirino Grandstand.

The UNRC, Dr. Badcock is the one who blew the whistle at the fun run to start the launching of International Year of the Youth. The activity was followed by the Wreath Laying ceremony with the UNAP, the chairpersons, Diplomatic corps, NYC Commissioners, and local government officials at the Rizal Monument.

The 3 day event ended at the Philippine Senate. The Office of Senator Pangilinan supported the event and out it into the history of Senate. This is the first youth ceremony held at the Legislative house of the Philippines. The presence of Senate President Enrile, Senator Cayetano, Senator Marcos ignite the room as the delegates began questioning them on certain socio-cultural and political issues.



With all these experiences, the youth will continue what they have ought to see, tasted, and felt along with their own kind—selfless advocates of peace and human rights .We must always work in dialogue to achieve mutual respect and understanding. Let us learn to live together in peace and uplift our nation from poverty. After all, our rights will only be fully realized when we learn to be more responsible enough in our society through our actions and words.