By Mikee Natinga Norico
From left to right: Vhea Armenio (CSJ), Francheska MJ A. Jalando-on, and Mikela Gertrude Manzanida pose with smiles, radiating confidence and joy during the 5th National Gathering of Girl Representatives in Baguio City.
Two outstanding Centralian Girl Scouts proudly represented the Iloilo Girl Scout Council during the 5th National Gathering of Girl Representatives, held from December 13 to 15, 2024, at the Ating Tahanan National Program and Training Center (NPTC) in Baguio City.
Mikela Gertrude G. Manzanida, Girl Representative of the Iloilo Girl Scout Council and a CPU Senior High School STEM 11-9 student, along with Francheska MJ A. Jalando-on, Alternate Girl Representative of the Iloilo Girl Scout Council and a CPU Junior High School Grade 10-Mercury student, joined fellow Girl Scout representatives from across the country to engage in a transformative three-day event themed “Her Eco Trail: Girl Leaders for Sustainable Solutions.”
The once-in-a-triennium gathering served as a platform for young leaders to learn, connect, and take action toward sustainability and empowerment.
Empowered young leaders in action! Girl Scouts join together during the 5th National Gathering of Girl Representatives, celebrating leadership and sustainability.
Day 1: Leadership
The event began with an inspiring opening ceremony, followed by afternoon sessions focused on leadership development. The young participants were encouraged to embrace their roles as changemakers, paving the way for meaningful actions in their respective communities.
Day 2: Sustainable Outdoor Adventure
The second day led the participants on a sustainable outdoor adventure, immersing them in the beauty of nature while strengthening their advocacy for environmental sustainability. The activities highlighted the idea that the journey itself is as meaningful as the destination, fostering stories and lessons that inspire their mission for sustainable solutions.
Day 3: A Sustainable Future
On the final day, the Girl Scouts showcased their leadership and commitment by presenting innovative and practical solutions to real-world challenges. Through teamwork, passion, and shared dedication, they created “eco-trails” aimed at fostering a greener, safer, and more equitable future.
As the Girls in Green concluded their eco-journey, they were empowered with newfound knowledge, skills, and leadership insights to embark on their own Her Eco Trail. Their transformative experience in Baguio City marks the beginning of their efforts to reshape society in harmony with sustainability and innovation.
This gathering not only celebrated the dedication of young leaders like Manzanida and Jalando-on but also demonstrated the power of collective action in addressing pressing environmental and societal challenges.
Central Philippine University congratulates these exceptional Girl Scouts, whose participation in this national event underscores the institution’s commitment to nurturing future leaders who embody resilience, innovation, and advocacy.