NDMU Bachelor of Public Administration Students Engage in Regional Population and Development Conference 2026, Strengthening Commitment to Youth Empowerment and Evidence-Based Governance

KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato – Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) students of Notre Dame of Marbel University (NDMU) actively participated in the Regional Conference on Population and Development 2026, organized by the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) Region XII, on July 21, 2026, at the Antonina Hurtado Multipurpose Hall, NIA Region XII, Koronadal City.

The participation of the students was made possible through the initiative of Mrs. Sheila Roma, providing future public administrators with an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions on one of the most pressing development challenges affecting communities today.

Anchored on the theme, “Realizing the Hopes and Aspirations of Young People through Population and Development: Building Evidence, Strengthening Partnerships, Transforming Futures,” the conference emphasized the growing concern of adolescent pregnancy and its implications on governance, social development, and public policy. Discussions highlighted the need for evidence-based decision-making, multisectoral collaboration, and responsive governance mechanisms to address the issue effectively.

The conference gathered experts and practitioners from various sectors who shared research findings, policy insights, and best practices related to population and development.

Among the resource speakers were Ryan M. Punsalan, Statistician I of the City Population Management Office of General Santos City, who presented a study on social vulnerability and household social protection coverage in General Santos City; Melanie C. Chiva of OPPO South Cotabato, who discussed the profiling of teenage mothers in the Province of South Cotabato; and Kenneth O. Yecyec, Youth Coordinator of the Family Planning Organization of the Philippines (FPOP) SOCCSKSARGEN Chapter, who delivered a presentation on child rights, sexual and reproductive health advocacy, and the situational analysis of teen pregnancy among young people.

Representing Notre Dame of Marbel University, Dr. Wilter C. Friales, Director for Student Affairs and Development, shared his presentation titled “From Social Protection to Empowerment: A Case Study on the Participation to ‘Pagkalinga sa Kabataang Magulang at Kanilang mga Anak’ (PKKMAK) Program of Adolescent Mothers and the Experiences of Its Implementers in Koronadal City, Region XII.” His presentation highlighted how community-based interventions and stakeholder partnerships can empower adolescent mothers and improve their quality of life through sustainable support mechanisms.

Through the conference, BPA students gained valuable insights into the intersection of population issues, public administration, and social development. The discussions reinforced the importance of data-driven governance, inclusive policymaking, and collaborative action in addressing complex social concerns.

The students expressed their sincere appreciation to Mrs. Sheila Roma for facilitating their participation in the event. Beyond academic enrichment, the conference strengthened their commitment to becoming ethical, competent, and people-centered public administrators dedicated to advancing the welfare of communities.

As future leaders in public service, the BPA students recognized that adolescent pregnancy is not only a public health concern but also a governance and development issue that requires informed leadership, strategic partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to evidence-based public service.