Bohol Red Cross Youth Summit Strengthens Young Voices for International Humanitarian Law 

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol-Young Red Cross leaders and student advocates from different schools gathered on September 5, 2026, for the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Youth Summit, organized by the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) -Bohol Chapter Red Cross Youth to deepen young people’s understanding of humanitarian principles and strengthen their role in advancing International Humanitarian Law.

Held at the Audio-Visual Hall of the Bohol Institute of Technology-International College (BIT-IC), Dao Campus, Barangay Dao, Tagbilaran City, the summit carried the theme “Pinalakas na Ugnayan at Pagkakaisa sa Pagsulong ng IHL,” emphasizing stronger partnerships and unity in promoting respect for humanitarian principles.

The day-long summit combined IHL education with youth leadership and academic competition through inter-school debate, essay writing, and extemporaneous speaking contests, providing students with opportunities to examine humanitarian issues, defend ideas, and communicate the importance of protecting human life and dignity.

The program opened with the Seven Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, led by Jonalyn Mae Supremo of the CYC IHL Committee, followed by the Red Cross Youth Pledge led by Jhelwin Dano, also of the CYC IHL Committee. 

Emmanuel C. Pilayre, Chapter Administrator of PRC Bohol Chapter, delivered the welcome address, while Ms. Junita Rose S. Ruiz, CSR-IHL, presented the message of purpose. Dir. Jessa Christie A. Tajale, 9th Chapter Youth Council President, acknowledged the participating councils.

A highlight of the opening program was the keynote message of Mrs. Maricris P. Guillena, RN, an IHL Advocate and RC143 Volunteer, who served as the summit’s keynote speaker. Her participation underscored the important role of volunteers and humanitarian advocates in bringing IHL closer to young people and communities.

Dr. Anthony Dalamerio, Vice Chairperson of the Philippine Red Cross – Bohol Chapter Board of Directors, delivered the Message of Support, affirming the Chapter leadership’s support for programs that empower young people to become responsible humanitarian leaders and advocates.

Princess Marielle A. Tajale, event chairperson, facilitated key portions of the activity, including the introduction of the judges and the closing program.

Participating councils included Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School Senior RCY Council and Senior Plus RCY Council, Tabalong National High School Senior Plus RCY Council, Fermin Tayabas National High School Senior Plus RCY Council, Valencia Technical Vocational High School Senior RCY Council, Bohol Wisdom School Senior RCY Council, and Tagbilaran City College College RCY Council, with other student competitors also taking part in the contests.

The competitions were evaluated by dedicated panels of judges. Divine Grace Espera, John Marc Paparon, and Atty. Frederick Q. Dacapio served as judges for the Debate Contest. Prince Josis Pablo, John Mikko Mondilla, and Jan Vinch Inking judged the Essay Writing Contest, while Ingrid Banac, Leah Virginias Balite-Lim, RN, RM, and Abigail A. Amora evaluated the Extemporaneous Speaking Contest.

In the Inter-School Council Debate Contest, students from Tagbilaran City Science High School emerged as Champion and also earned the Best Speaker recognition, while Tagbilaran City College – College RCY Council secured first place.

For the Inter-School Council Essay Writing Contest, Southern Inabanga National High School – Senior RCY Council was declared Champion. Bohol Wisdom School – Senior RCY Council placed first, while Tabalong National High School – Senior Plus RCY Council took second place.

In the Inter-School Council Extemporaneous Speaking Contest, Bohol Wisdom School Senior RCY Council captured the Championship, followed by Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School – Senior Plus RCY Council in first place and Tabalong National High School – Senior Plus RCY Council in second place.

The summit concluded with the presentation of certificates and recognition to the judges, partners, sponsors, participating councils, and winners.

More than a competition, the 2026 IHL Youth Summit provided a platform for young people to understand that even in times of armed conflict, there are rules designed to protect people who are not, or are no longer, taking part in hostilities and to limit unnecessary suffering.

By engaging students through discussion, writing, public speaking, and debate, the Philippine Red Cross – Bohol Chapter continues to nurture young leaders who can carry the values of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality into their schools, families, and communities.

The activity reflects the continuing commitment of the Philippine Red Cross – Bohol Chapter and its Red Cross Youth to ensure that humanitarian principles are not only learned by the next generation, but understood, practiced, and passed on-strengthening a culture of humanity and respect for human dignity in Bohol.