In a powerful convergence of purpose and partnership, the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) CALABARZON, in collaboration with Southern Luzon State University (SLSU) Gender and Development (GAD) Office, hosted a transformative event titled “Orientation on Adolescent Health and Development – Life Skills” on October 24, at the SLSU Main, Lucban, Quezon.
The event welcomed 122 participants, the majority of whom were students from various colleges and departments of SLSU, alongside faculty and staff. Many attendees were passionate advocates for adolescent health, gender equality, and the empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), making the gathering a vibrant mix of youthful energy and institutional support. This half-day orientation is a declaration of commitment to inclusive growth, youth empowerment, and the belief that every youth, regardless of background or ability, deserves the opportunity to thrive.
Dr. Marissa C. Esperal, SLSU Vice President for Research, Extension, Production, Development and Innovation (REPDI) expressed deep appreciation for the initiative’s focus on life skills and inclusivity for adolescents and PWDs. Ms. Marites U. Cipriano, Assistant Regional Director of CPD-CALABARZON, followed with an inspirational message highlighting the importance of institutional collaboration in promoting holistic development.
Life Skills for All: Building Resilience, Confidence, and Inclusion
Neil Ivan Quitangon, Planning Officer I of CPD-CALABARZON, delivered a compelling session on adolescent health and development, emphasizing the importance of equipping young people with essential life skills such as decision-making, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness. He spoke passionately about the need for adolescents to be informed about sexual health and pregnancy, highlighting how knowledge empowers them to make responsible choices. “Knowledge is protection,” he reminded the audience, encouraging students to seek guidance, ask questions, and embrace education as a tool for self-respect and future readiness. His talk resonated deeply, sparking reflection and dialogue among participants.
As he concluded, Mr. Quitangon left the students with a powerful message that challenged popular youth culture: “YOLO is not true. Instead, remember—‘You live every day.’ So make the best decision every day.” His words served as a reminder that life is not about fleeting moments, but about daily choices that shape one’s future. With this, he inspired the audience to live with intention, to value their well-being, and to take ownership of their journey—one thoughtful decision at a time.
Following the life skills orientation, Dr. Michelle V. Ramirez, Head of the Service for Students with Special Needs and Persons with Disability at SLSU, delivered a deeply moving talk titled “Flourishing Youth: Building a Future of Health and Well-Being.” Her session focused on the importance of self-worth, personal growth, and inclusive support systems, especially for students with disabilities. She encouraged all participants to reflect on their values, their habits, and the people who have shaped their lives.
To spark introspection, Dr. Ramirez posed two powerful questions to the audience: “Kung may isang taong pasasalamatan ka, sino ito at bakit?” and “Kung may masamang hobby kang babaguhin, ano ito?” These questions opened a space for self-reflection and emotional connection. One student bravely shared that he would thank himself—for not giving up despite the challenges he had faced. According to Dr. Ramirez, recognizing one’s own strength is a vital step toward healing and transformation. This served as a reminder to everyone that growth begins with self-awareness, and that every day is a new opportunity to become better, stronger, and kinder to oneself.
An open forum provided a platform for students and faculty to engage in meaningful dialogue, ask questions, and share personal reflections. The conversations were rich with insight and empathy, reinforcing the importance of listening to and learning from one another.
Celebrating Talent and Diversity
Midway through the program, the atmosphere turned festive as students took the stage for special song and dance performances. These presentations, featuring both able-bodied and PWD students, were powerful expressions of creativity, resilience, and unity. The joy and pride radiating from the performers and the audience alike underscored the event’s core message: inclusion is not just about access—it’s about celebration.
A Vision for a More Inclusive Tomorrow
The event concluded with a heartfelt message from Dean Aurelio Teodoro D. Maguyon III of the Office of Student Affairs Services, who commended the organizers, speakers, and participants for their dedication to fostering a culture of empowerment, equity, and inclusion. “Let this be a spark that ignites more programs like this—where every student, regardless of ability or identity, is given the tools and the voice to lead,” he said.
The Orientation on Adolescent Health and Development – Life Skills was a testament to what can be achieved when institutions like SLSU, CPD-CALABARZON, and the GAD Office of SLSU come together with a shared vision: to build a future where every adolescent is empowered, every voice is heard, and every individual—especially those with disabilities—is given the opportunity to shine. This event was not just a milestone. It was a movement toward a more inclusive, compassionate, and empowered generation.
The success of the event was made possible through the coordination of SLSU’s GAD Office, whose advocacy for gender sensitivity ensured the program addressed the diverse needs of all participants.
Article & Layout: Joyce S. Andrade
Photos: CPD-CALABARZON