ZAMBOANGA City ― Around 50 young leaders from various schools and organizations gathered on March 16 for the inaugural Youth for Climate Justice (Y4CJ) Zamboanga City Chapter General Assembly, marking a new push for climate action in the region.

Held at the Claret Lay Leaders Formation Center, the event aimed to mobilize youth in tackling climate change. Participants elected chapter officers and took part in vision mapping and strategic planning sessions.

The Zamboanga City chapter joins a growing network of Y4CJ groups across Mindanao, including chapters in Tagoloan, Davao City, Misamis Occidental, and Cagayan de Oro City.

CLIMATE JUSTICE. Youth from diverse backgrounds and schools unite for a common cause at the Youth for Climate Justice Zamboanga City Chapter General Assembly on March 16 at the Claret Lay Leaders Formation Center. Photo by Pat Jared V. Pangantihon

“We are not just talking about climate change; we are taking steps to ensure that our voices are heard and our future is protected,” said Abdul-Rahim P. Anudin, the newly elected Y4CJ-Zamboanga City president.

As extreme weather events intensify, young activists are calling for stronger local and national policies. Y4CJ assemblies provide a platform for youth engagement, advocacy, and leadership in the fight for climate justice.

The launch in Zamboanga City signals a growing movement of young Filipinos demanding urgent action to secure a sustainable and just future.