DSWD empowers 4Ps youth on leadership, nation-building through SIKAD Batan-on
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — Strengthening the role of young Filipinos in responsible leadership and nation-building, the Tandag City Operations Office of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) conducted the youth development session on SIKAD (Strengthening Inspiration, Knowledge, Action and Discipline) Batan-on 2026: Empowering 4Ps Youth Towards Positive Change in Barangay Maitum.
With the theme, ‘Strengthening Inspiration, Knowledge, Action and Discipline among Youths Towards Transformation, Responsible Leadership and Nation Building,’ the activity brought together Grades 10, 11, and 12 4Ps youth beneficiaries for a series of interactive learning sessions aimed at developing socially responsible, informed, and empowered young citizens.
According to DSWD City Link Michael Montenegro, the initiative forms part of the agency’s continuing efforts to equip 4Ps youth beneficiaries with the knowledge, life skills, and positive values needed to make informed decisions, become active contributors to their communities, and prepare for their future roles as leaders and partners in nation-building
The activity served as a platform for the youth to express themselves, build self-confidence, and foster stronger relationships with their peers while learning about issues that directly affect their lives and future, Montenegro added.
The program opened with a Kumustahan Session facilitated by Lovecel Pearl Suarez, creating a safe and welcoming space where participants openly shared their experiences, aspirations, and concerns. The interactive session encouraged meaningful conversations that promoted emotional well-being and strengthened connections among the youth.
Recognizing the importance of informed decision-making among adolescents, Maricel L. Ello, a registered nurse, discussed the prevention of teenage pregnancy and early marriage. She emphasized the value of proper guidance, reproductive health education, self-awareness, and making responsible choices that support the youth’s educational and personal aspirations.
Another timely discussion focused on Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (OSAEC-CSAEM), facilitated by Jemima Balili. The session raised awareness about the growing risks faced by young people in the digital space and equipped participants with practical knowledge on protecting themselves from online exploitation and abuse.
Balili also encouraged the youth to become responsible social media users by practicing online safety, respecting others, and remaining vigilant against harmful online activities.
Complementing the discussions, the Barangay Sangguniang Kabataan officials conducted a drug awareness session, highlighting the adverse effects of illegal drugs on an individual’s health, education, family, and future. The youth were encouraged to avoid negative influences and actively participate in positive, productive community endeavors.
For one participant, the activity reinforced the role of young people in nation-building.
“As a student leader, I am honored to have participated in SIKAD Batan-on 2026 during the youth development session. The session was fun and engaging, as the youth of Barangay Maitum actively participated and shared their ideas and perspectives, reflecting their sense of responsibility as young individuals,” said Jay-ar M. Velasco, former president of the Division Federation Supreme Secondary Learner Government of the Schools Division of Tandag.
He added that the youth-centered activities and relevant topics empowered participants and encouraged them to become actively involved in civic engagement and community development.
“Through activities and sessions like this, young people are empowered and encouraged to actively engage in civic involvement, as they are being shaped to become the future of the nation,” Velasco said.
Aligned with the aspiration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., through SIKAD Batan-on 2026, the DSWD 4Ps continues to strengthen its commitment to developing socially responsible and empowered youth by providing opportunities for learning, leadership, and character-building.
Beyond providing social protection to economically disadvantaged families, the program on Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino invests in the growth and development of young beneficiaries, recognizing that informed, disciplined, and engaged youth play a vital role in building resilient families and stronger communities.
The activity underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among government agencies, local leaders, and the youth sector in nurturing future leaders who can contribute meaningfully to community development and nation-building. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur with a report from DSWD-4Ps)
