PANABO CITY – Davao del Norte State College (DNSC) conducted the Youth Forum on the West Philippine Sea: Empowering the Youth for National Sovereignty on February 26, 2026 at the DNSC Island Garden City of Samal Campus and on March 4, 2026 at DNSC-Datu Jose A. Libayao Campus in Talaingod.
The activity gathered DNSC students and faculty members and was organized by the National Service Training Program Division of DNSC, headed by Coordinator Razul A. Atowan. The forum was conducted in partnership with the 5th Civil Relations Group of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and in collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Philippine Navy, Regional Emergency Assistance Communications Team, and the AFP Finance Center Multi-Purpose Cooperative.
The forum included discussions on Understanding the West Philippine Sea Issues, The Role of the Armed Forces of the Philippines in National Security and Sovereignty, Your Voice for Peace and Sustainability, and Youth Volunteerism. These sessions provided information on maritime issues, national security, and civic engagement.
During the program at the Samal campus, Mary Grace Rimandiman, DNSC Samal Campus Coordinator, delivered the opening remarks and welcomed the participants.
“It is my great pleasure to welcome all of you to this meaningful youth forum on the West Philippine Sea,” Rimandiman said. “Today’s gathering is more than just an academic activity; it is an opportunity for us, especially the young people, to become more aware, more informed, and more engaged in the issues that shape our nation.”
She also noted the broader context of the topic discussed in the forum.
“The West Philippine Sea is not only a geographical area on our map,” Rimandiman said. “It represents our sovereignty, our national resources, and our shared responsibility as a Filipino people.”
The forum formed part of the activities of the National Service Training Program aimed at increasing student awareness of national issues and civic participation.
