A new generation of leaders officially stepped into their roles on June 30, 2025 as part of Dagupan’s annual “Manlingkor Ya Kalangweran” program, which allows students to serve as young city officials for one year.

Mayor Belen Fernandez led the oath-taking ceremony during which the youth leaders pledged to serve with honesty, responsibility, and dedication.

“Signifying their commitment to serve with integrity, responsibility and dedication during their time as youth public servants,” Alfred Gonzales, Education Program Supervisor on Curriculum Implementation Division at SDO-Dagupan City, said.

Among the student leaders is Mark Gabriel Campued, a 14-year-old Grade 9 student, who now serves as Young City Mayor. He plans to focus on environmental programs throughout his term.

“Mga program for cleanup drive, adding more public trash bins, and making sure mas malinis ang ating kalikasan,” Campued said.

Also taking office is Clarence Vince Aquino, another Grade 9 student, who was elected as one of the Young City Councilors. His top priorities include addressing poverty and public health.

“Ang gusto kong i-focus is to help them. Most of them, wala silang medical,” Aquino said.

The young officials come from different schools across Dagupan. They will join a one-week immersion program where they assist in real city government tasks and learn about local governance.

The selection process began with 65 Grade 9 student leaders nominated by their respective schools based on academic performance and leadership qualities.

From this group, a student election was held to choose key positions from mayor to city councilors. For department head roles, students underwent interviews conducted by Mayor Fernandez, who then delegated the final appointments.

To support the implementation of their proposed projects, each youth official is guided by an adult counterpart from the city government.

They also attend official sessions to understand how policies are crafted and approved. If a youth-led initiative gains approval, it is formally executed by the adult officials, using funding from the local government.

Their term will last for one year, and aside from hands-on learning, the youth officials hope to inspire their peers.

Their message to fellow students is to continue studying well and be good members of the community.