Marcos cites Pinoy youth role in green transition

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos cited yesterday the vital role of the Filipino youth in the country’s efforts to achieve a greener and sustainable future.

“We recognize the utmost importance of our young people’s roles in developing, prioritizing and adopting ecological initiatives that must be aggressively pushed today to fully realize the healthier environment we all deserve,” Marcos said during the celebration of the International Youth Day.

He also urged the rest of the Filipino people to work hand in hand with the youth in achieving the collective goal of a healthy environment.

“May our love for the youth and Mother Earth be the guidepost as we commit to embark on a green transition. Together, let us embrace this social contract and move towards a future that efficiently, inclusively and sustainably works for all,” he said.

The President said he draws inspiration from the encouraging visions of the Filipino youth, who serve as both the trailblazer of the modern world and hope for the future.

International Youth Day is commemorated every year on Aug. 12, bringing youth issues to the attention of the international community and celebrating the potential of youth as partners in today’s global society, the United Nations said.

With this year’s theme, “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World,” UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said the shift toward an environmentally sustainable and climate-friendly world is critical not only for responding to the global climate crisis but also for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Meanwhile, in a video message on the 28th founding anniversary of the National Youth Commission yesterday, Marcos also recognized the young Filipinos’ contribution in “strengthening the republic” and in disaster response, among others.

Marcos authored Republic Act (RA) 8044 or the National Youth Commission during his term as Ilocos Norte representative in 1995.

He also authored RA 10742 or the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Law of 2015 when he was a senator.