The University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao (USLT) hosted two youth-centered programs—MAI-MUNERIFIC (Encounter in the City: Basics of MUN) and DULOG-DINIG (Every Voice is a Direction, Every Step a Contribution)—on August 6, 2025, at the James Ter Meer Gymnasium.
These initiatives were led by the Local Youth Development Office (LYDO) of the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tuguegarao City and brought together high school and college students from different schools across the city to deepen their understanding of diplomacy and civic responsibility.
To officially open the event, City Mayor Hon. Maila Rosario S. Ting-Que and USLT President Rev. Fr. Macwayne N. Maniwang, CICM, PhD, shared inspirational messages. Both leaders underscored the importance of active youth involvement in governance and global issues.
The morning session featured a discussion on Model United Nations (MUN), which is an educational simulation where students act as diplomats and debate global topics. Participants were introduced to the structure and purpose of the United Nations (UN), as well as the various committees within the organization.
Further, former participants of MUN shared heartfelt testimonials, highlighting how the experience helped them grow in confidence, communication, and leadership.
The United Nations encourages Model UN activities as they mirror real-world diplomacy and promote the UN’s core values, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In the afternoon, the program transitioned to DULOG-DINIG, which focused on local governance and public service. A panel of city and provincial officials engaged the youth in conversations about their roles in community development. The speakers included Hon. Mark Angelo B. Dayag (Public Safety and Order and Disaster Preparedness); Hon. Lope B. Apostol (Trade, Commerce, and Industry); Hon. Myrna G. Te (Women and Children, Family, and Gender Relations); Hon. Mariel Ayna Ting-Calimag (Public Information); Hon. Anthony C. Tuddao (Human Resources and Development); Hon. Cerene Pearl T. Quilang (Youth and Sports Development); Hon. Restituto C. Ramirez (Barangay Affairs); Hon. Romar De Asis (Board Member, 3rd District of Cagayan); and Hon. Atty. Engelbert C. Caronan (Board Member, 3rd District of Cagayan).
Each official shared practical knowledge and personal insights about their respective areas of service to inspire the youth to contribute to positive change in their communities.
The day-long event served not only as a platform for learning but also as a space where young leaders could find their voice, ask questions, and see themselves as key players in building a better future locally and globally.
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