CAGAYAN de Oro City — Young people in Northern Mindanao can find opportunities in education, digital skills and regional exchanges through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Philippine Information Agency officials said at a forum on Oct. 29.
But they also cautioned students about online risks, including scams, misinformation and threats to personal data, as artificial intelligence and digital platforms become part of daily life.
PIA Director-General Katherine Chloe S. De Castro urged young people to think critically, verify information, and use technology responsibly.
She said the agency aims to bring accurate and timely information closer to the public, helping young people recognize misinformation and make informed decisions.
“Our goal is not simply to prepare young people for the future, but to empower them to help shape it. Regardless of where they come from, every young Filipino should have the opportunity to learn, innovate, and contribute to our country's growth,” De Castro said.
She said youth participation in community development also supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas agenda.
PIA Assistant Director-General Medardo C. Abad Jr. said peace among neighboring countries helps create the conditions for economic growth and better living standards.
Conflict and insecurity, he said, can hold back development and limit cooperation in areas such as trade, education, labor, the environment and tourism.
“Kung walang peace sa Southeast Asia, walang economic development,” Abad said. (Without peace in Southeast Asia, there can be no economic development.)
He described ASEAN as a regional community that works toward shared solutions and standards. Initiatives such as the ASEAN Free Trade Area and ASEAN Investment Area aim to strengthen trade, attract investments and improve the region’s competitiveness, he said.
Abad said cooperation is also needed to address problems that cross national borders, including communicable diseases, labor migration, human trafficking, illegal drugs, maritime piracy and pollution from forest fires.
PIA Assistant Director-General Kristine Venet Q. Andal urged students to apply what they learned about science, technology, online safety, and ASEAN in their daily lives.
She encouraged them to stay informed, take part in ASEAN activities and help build a resilient and inclusive region.
PIA-10 Regional Head Franklin P. Gumapon said ASEAN offers opportunities for young people through scholarships, leadership workshops, cross-border exchanges, volunteer programs and training.
He urged students to explore these opportunities and consider careers across the region, while using their skills to support their families and communities.
The forum brought together participants to discuss ASEAN, digital literacy, and opportunities for the youth. (With a report from Lou Ellen L. Antonio/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
