15/08/2026
YouthFest 2026 Brings Human Rights, Opportunities Closer to Biliran Youth
More than 130 students and representatives of partner agencies gathered at the Biliran Province State University (BiPSU) Gymnasium in Naval on August 12 for YouthFest 2026: Tinig at Galaw ng Kabataan, a celebration of International Youth Day.
Led by the Commission on Human Rights Regional Office VIII (CHR RO VIII), the activity was organized in partnership with BiPSU, DTI Biliran, TESDA Biliran, and the Local Government Unit of Naval.
The event highlighted the meaning of its theme: Tinig represents the voices of young peopleâtheir ideas, experiences, concerns, creativity, and aspirationsâwhile Galaw represents participation and action, encouraging them to use their voices, knowledge, skills, and talents to become actively involved in their communities.
Dr. Maribel Zipagan, BiPSU Vice President for Students, Internationalization, and Strategic Partnerships welcomed the participants and underscored the universityâs commitment to empowering young people and supporting their meaningful participation in society. Meanwhile, CHR Commissioner Beda Epres delivered a video message highlighting the vital contribution of young people to building a just, inclusive, and human rights-respecting society.
Ms. Jonna Marie Ranes, Chief of the CHR RO VIII Promotion and Advocacy Division, presented the activity rationale and formally opened Rights on Canvas: Express Human Rights through Art, an on-the-spot poster-making contest. The judging and deliberation of the contest entries were featured in the afternoon, followed by the gallery viewing. Bernice Yoanne Tadeo of the Bachelor of Elementary Education program won First Place, followed by Cherilyn D. Geganto of the Bachelor of Secondary Education program in Second Place and Leann Adrienne Gofredo of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in Third Place.
The learning sessions featured Atty. Sheena Estrella Bentor, BiPSU Legal Assistant III and CHRE Coordinator, who discussed basic human rights concepts and principles, and Mr. Joseph Roel Obrino, Information Officer II of CHR RO VIII, who presented the mandate and functions of the Commission.
Further,DTI Biliran OIC Provincial Director Rebecca Cormanes and TESDA Biliran Acting Provincial Director Sheila Marie Taon also introduced their respective agenciesâ programs, services, and opportunities for young people. The celebration also featured performances by the BiPSU Panamao Dance Company, Lovely Vicera, and Jezel Mae Rosello.
During the Youth Booth Exhibition, students showcased their artworks, crafts, and locally made products while sharing their ideas on creativity and entrepreneurship. Certificates and recognition were presented to the partners, resource persons, exhibitors, contest winners, and participants.
In her closing remarks, CHR RO VIII OIC Regional Director Atty. Marierose P. Alvero-Joaquin emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for young people to learn about their rights, develop their abilities, and participate in matters affecting their lives.
Through human rights education, artistic expression, skills development, and entrepreneurship, YouthFest 2026 provided Biliran youth with a meaningful platform to speak, create, learn, and lead.
