Student leaders from 34 schools across the province gathered at the Lyceum of the Philippines University–Cavite for the annual Youth Summit organized by the Lyceum Central Student Government (LYCESGO), reaffirming their shared commitment to leadership, civic participation, and youth empowerment.

Anchored on the theme “Youth Changemakers: Be the Voice to Inspire Change for a Better Tomorrow,” the whole-day summit provided a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and learning among young leaders, educators, and advocates from various academic institutions in Cavite.

The summit began with the registration of participating schools, reflecting unity among diverse student communities across the province. The program formally opened with an invocation and the singing of the national anthem led by the university’s Harmonic Chorale. A high-energy performance from the LPU Cavite Dance Company captivated the audience, followed by the introduction of masters of ceremony Andrea Joy Orino and Hannah Grace Javier. In her welcome address, Raizza P. Corpus, head of the Center for Student and Cultural Affairs and LYCESGO adviser, encouraged students to maximize the opportunity to learn, connect, and lead with purpose, emphasizing the importance of youth-driven initiatives in shaping socially responsible citizens.

The morning session featured media practitioner and influencer Gabe Pineda, who delivered a keynote address centered on youth empowerment and leadership. “Kabataan ka, hindi kabataan lang,” he stated, reminding participants of their capacity to influence meaningful change. He was followed by multimedia influencer and public servant Chino Liu, popularly known as Tita Krissy Achino, who highlighted the role of digital platforms as tools for representation and advocacy. She encouraged responsible online engagement and taking an active stance on social issues. Both speakers were presented with certificates of appreciation in recognition of their contributions.

To strengthen practical leadership skills, Marianne Dimaculangan-Beatriz facilitated an interactive workshop, engaging participants in collaborative discussions, critical thinking exercises, and live presentations. This activity allowed students to apply lessons from the keynote sessions while enhancing teamwork and problem-solving skills.

The afternoon session was welcomed by Dr. Maria Teresa O. Pilapil, vice president for Administration, who commended the presence of the 34 participating schools and guest speakers. College representatives from the eight academic departments of Lyceum of the Philippines University–Cavite presented their programs and career opportunities. These included Business Administration; International Tourism and Hospitality Management; Engineering, Computer Studies, and Architecture; Arts and Sciences; Education; Allied Medical Sciences; and Maritime Education—giving participants a comprehensive overview of academic pathways and professional prospects within the university.

A major highlight of the summit was the keynote address delivered by human rights lawyer Chel Diokno, introduced by LYCESGO president Lebron James Alvarez. Diokno’s speech focused on youth volunteerism, idealism, and creative expression as essential pillars of transformative leadership, encouraging students to actively engage in civic life and contribute positively to society. His address concluded with an interactive talk show-style question-and-answer segment, where participants raised pressing issues and engaged directly with the speaker.

The latter part of the program featured scholarship highlights, video presentations, and special messages from notable figures supporting youth involvement in nation-building. Among these were a recorded video message from Senator Risa Hontiveros, who commended the youth for stepping forward as changemakers and emphasized their crucial role in strengthening democracy, and a video presentation from Mark Irvin C. Celis, who highlighted the university’s academic programs, resources, and opportunities for student growth. These segments reinforced the summit’s message that the youth are leaders of today as well as tomorrow.

The summit concluded with a campus tour, giving participants the opportunity to explore the university’s facilities and academic environment. Through a well-structured program and the active participation of 34 schools across Cavite, the LYCESGO Youth Summit successfully created a meaningful space for dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration—reaffirming LPU–Cavite’s commitment to empowering young individuals as catalysts for positive change and future leaders of the nation.