USTP Panaon backs youth-led initiatives for food security, youth empowerment at SIBOL 2026
By James Francis Mendoza, BSIT Student, USTP Panaon
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In strengthening the role of young people in agricultural innovation and sustainable food systems, the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Panaon (USTP Panaon) participated in SIBOL: 3rd National Agriculture and Youth Summit 2026, held on October 15–16 at the Ibalong Centrum for Recreation (ICR) in Barangay Bitano, Legazpi City, Albay. Organized by the Albay Youth Farmers Organization Inc., the two-day summit carried the theme “Sagip Saka: Youth at the Heart of Agricultural Change,” highlighting the vital role of young Filipinos in transforming agriculture and fisheries through leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, and advocacy.
Representing the USTP Panaon campus were James Francis Mendoza of the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT), Angela Faye S. Buenas of the Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education major in Home Economics (BTLEd-HE), and Renz Loid R. Redublado of the Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology (BSMB), accompanied by the Entrepreneurship and Technology Coordinator, Mr. Gizelle John M. Tacas-Tacas.
For USTP Panaon, the national gathering offered an opportunity to engage in conversations on sustainable food production, agricultural development, and the challenges faced by farmers and fisherfolk. It also underscored the importance of bringing together diverse academic disciplines to contribute to solutions that support rural communities and strengthen food security.
SIBOL marks the third installment of the five-year National Agriculture and Youth Summit Series, following PUNLA in 2024, which focused on planting awareness, and USBONG in 2025, which emphasized strengthening youth engagement and participation. Building on these initiatives, SIBOL advances the series toward growth, action, and measurable impact.
A key focus of the summit was Republic Act No. 11321, or the Sagip Saka Act, which promotes enterprise development and market access for agricultural and fishery producers. By raising awareness of the law, the summit sought to help young people better understand the policies and opportunities that can support farmers, fisherfolk, and agricultural enterprises.
The gathering also provided a platform for dialogue among youth, farmers, fisherfolk, government agencies, private sector partners, and development organizations. Through the SIBOL AgriPulse consultation, participants were encouraged to share youth perspectives on pressing agricultural concerns and contribute ideas for youth-led projects and policy recommendations.
The participation of USTP Panaon reflects the value of empowering students beyond the classroom, encouraging them to connect their academic knowledge with the needs of communities and the country’s agricultural sector. With information technology, home economics, and marine biology represented in its delegation, the campus brought together perspectives relevant to innovation, food-related livelihoods, and the sustainable use of aquatic resources.
For Angela Faye S. Buenas, the summit offered valuable insights into the role of young people in advancing agricultural development and food sustainability.
“Participating in SIBOL 2026 helped me realize that the youth have an important role in promoting sustainable agriculture and food security. Through this summit, I learned that agriculture is not only about farming but also about innovation, collaboration, and creating opportunities for local farmers and fisherfolk. As a student, I believe we can contribute to agricultural development by applying our knowledge, supporting local initiatives, and taking part in solutions that will benefit future generations,” Buenas shared.
As the country continues to face challenges involving food security, agricultural productivity, and the sustainability of farming and fishing communities, initiatives such as SIBOL reinforce the need to recognize young people not merely as future leaders but as active partners in development today.
Through its participation, USTP Panaon strengthens its commitment to youth empowerment and interdisciplinary collaboration, recognizing that building sustainable food systems requires informed, innovative, and engaged young people working alongside the communities they seek to serve.
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