AEP Presents its Capacity Building Program to over 200 Sangguniang Kabataan Officers in Imus City
Written by Jane B.
As part of AEP’s Capacity Building Program for Filipino Youth Leaders, AEP’s Executive Director presented the Project to over 200 Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officers representing the 97 barangays of Imus City during the SK's quarterly session on April 6, 2024. Supported by Animal Charity Evaluators, this initiative aims to instill compassion and empathy for farmed animals, particularly among youth leaders in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs), empowering them to initiate positive change in their communities.
Prior to the presentation at Imus City, AEP paid courtesy visits to the SK Federation Chairpersons of Imus and Dasmariñas City, and the City Youth Development Office of General Trias, Cavitelast March 20. These visits paved the way for AEP's invitation to the 2nd regular meeting of the SK Federation of Imus, providing a valuable platform to present the pilot project to the SK officers.
Recognizing the pivotal role of the SK in local governance and youth development, the project seeks to cultivate a new generation of socially-responsible leaders.
During discussions at the event, General Trias City Youth Development Officer, Ms. Kempiz, highlighted concerns regarding road safety issues caused by stray cows and unpleasant odors emanating from nearby poultry farms. These issues underscore the importance of addressing environmental and animal welfare concerns within local communities. Additionally, the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation of CSJDM Bulacan expressed interest in developing policies related to animal welfare, signaling a growing commitment to social responsibility among youth leaders.
From left: Paula Clareza (AEP), Hon. Glian P. Ilagan (Imus SK Federation), Ging Geronimo (AEP)
AEP views the SK as a vital ally in advancing animal advocacy efforts among Filipino youth. Aligned with this initiative, AEP also held a virtual meeting with the SK Federation of City of San Jose Del Monte (CSJDM), Bulacan, on March 25, where they inquired if they could develop policies related to animal welfare.
All four cities expressed keen interest in participating in the project. Imus, boasting the highest number of barangays at 97, followed by Dasmariñas with 75 and General Trias with 33. Notably, Imus also hosts the highest concentration of GIDAs, with four located in Barangays Anabu I-B, Bayan Luma II, Tanzang Luma I, and Toclong II-B. Dasmariñas and General Trias each have one GIDA, situated in Barangay San Isidro Labrador II and Barangay Santa Clara, respectively.
Overall, this event is a huge step in AEP's efforts to empower youth leaders and foster a culture of empathy for farmed animals and social responsibility across Filipino communities.