By Genia Sevilla,
Hammy Keith Roa,
and Angel Ado
BSU Interns
THE Junior Chamber International (JCI) Macajalar 24K chapter underscored its commitment to community service and leadership development during a press conference on March 26.
JCI Macajalar 24K President John Michael B. Sabellina emphasized the organization’s dedication to equipping individuals with essential skills, particularly in public speaking.
“Public speaking is a sustainable solution that benefits everyone. It's an important skill that every person should have,” Sabellina said.
JCI 24K President Vahjna Mae Flores highlighted the organization’s four key areas of focus: individual growth, business development, community service, and international collaboration.
“We are a training organization that aims to equip our members with skills they can use in their personal lives,” Flores said.
JCI Macajalar 24K has spearheaded numerous community projects, including a study center in Xavier Ecoville, which serves as a safe learning space for 78 students affected by past calamities.
Flores also introduced the ‘Kasalan’ project, which sponsors weddings for long-time couples unable to afford marriage ceremonies. The initiative provides wedding essentials, including gowns, shoes, and rings, and ensures ceremonies are held in churches.
In addition, the organization runs ‘Artsada,’ a program offering arts and crafts activities for children on the autism spectrum. JCI also prioritizes public health through medical missions, blood donation drives, and vision care programs.
“We always ensure that proposed projects align with UNSDG (United Nations Sustainable Development Goals),” Flores said.
JCI leaders stressed that their initiatives extend beyond local communities, reaching regional, national, and even global levels.
“The good thing about JCI is that our projects are not limited to our community. We go beyond, from Mindanao-wide to nationwide and even on the global stage,” Sabellina said.
The organization also follows a structured framework in implementing projects, which includes scanning, hypothesizing, executing, and evaluating outcomes.
The chapter announced that JCI Week will take place from April 6-12. One of the key events is ‘Silip Dalunggan, Silip Tutunlan,’ a medical outreach program in collaboration with Northern Mindanao ENT doctors, scheduled for April 10 at Xavier Ecoville.
“If you want a free check-up, we are opening this opportunity with no problem, thanks to our partner doctors,” Flores said.
JCI welcomes individuals aged 18-40 to join its programs. Prospective members must lead a project and attend general meetings before formal acceptance.
Former JCI President Ken Francisco also shared insights into the organization's training programs, which are available locally and internationally.
“The training does not end because it’s your interest that we are looking for,” Francisco said.
Funding for JCI’s programs comes from donors and partner organizations in both the Philippines and the United States.
“I work in a non-profit organization in the US, and they provide support for JCI CDO,” Francisco said.
JCI Macajalar 24K continues to advocate for leadership development, social responsibility, and community impact through its diverse initiatives.
