On July 9, 2026, Rizal Technological University (RTU) hosted the Youth Aspirations Forum as part of the celebration of the 2026 World Population Day, gathering student and youth leaders, faculty members, government agencies, and stakeholders in a meaningful discussion on the aspirations of the next generation on population and development, reproductive health, gender equality, and sustainable development.
The forum was organized in collaboration with the Commission on Population and Development-National Capital Region (CPD-NCR), Center for Health Solutions & Innovations Philippines, Inc. (CHSI), and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), through RTU’s Sen. Neptali Gonzales Research Center for Development Studies, headed by Instr. Joel Mark Rodriguez.
In her welcoming remarks, RTU President Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco emphasized that the future is not built by policies and programs alone but by the dreams, aspirations, and actions of the youth. She encouraged the youth to speak up on their vision for the future. Her message was echoed by the other leaders present in the forum, including Lolito R. Tacardon, Deputy Director of the CPD; Neus Bernabeu, Country Representative of UNFPA Philippines; and Arnaud Peral, United Nations Resident Coordinator.
The forum heard the voices of youth from various sectors who shared their histories, stories, and aspirations for youth facing challenges as they did, through a panel discussion moderated by Assistant Secretary Rea Uy-Epistola of the Office of the Executive Secretary. The panel was composed of Katrina Hernandez, a Physician and National Paralympic Athlete for Powerlifting; Justine Encina, a Transgender first-year student and Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) Facilitator; Jasmine Alkhaldi, an athlete and manager of Atletang Ayala of the Ayala Foundation; and Engr. Paul Anthony Prieto, University Extension Associate at UP National Center for Transportation Studies.
Throughout the forum, speakers emphasized that youth aspirations extend beyond personal success. They highlighted the importance of creating conditions where every young Filipino has equitable access to education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and safe spaces to participate in decision-making. Discussions recognized that aspirations are shaped by family, community, technology, economic realities, and public policy, making collaboration among educational institutions, government agencies, and development organizations essential in supporting the country’s youth.
A central message of the event was that listening to young people is indispensable in crafting responsive policies and programs. Participants explored how today’s generation navigates the uncertainties posed by rapid technological change, economic shifts, climate concerns, and evolving social realities, while remaining hopeful and determined to contribute to national development. The conversations encouraged young Filipinos to view themselves not merely as beneficiaries of development but as active partners in building inclusive and sustainable communities.
Closing messages from the Department of Health–NCR Medical Officer IV, Dr. Ma. Criselda D. Resurreccion, and CPD-NCR Regional Director, Jackylin D. Robel, reinforced the shared responsibility of institutions and communities in helping young people realize their aspirations. The event concluded with the symbolic “My Hope for the Future” collective installation, in which participants expressed their personal dreams and a shared vision for a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous Philippines.
By hosting the Youth Aspiration Forum, Pandayang Rizalia strengthened its position as a leading educational institution that champions youth participation and transformative leadership, underscoring its commitment to creating opportunities for dialogue that bridge academic learning with real-world issues. More than a one-day event, the forum represented RTU’s continuing commitment to empowering young Filipinos, fostering meaningful partnerships, and elevating conversations that inspire the next generation to transform aspirations into action and contribute to a brighter future for the nation.