Alimodian student leads Iloilo’s 2026 youth officials

By Mariela Angella Oladive

ILOILO CITY — A student from Alimodian National Comprehensive High School was named Iloilo’s 2026 Boy Governor during the Boy and Girl Officials Program on Monday, Aug. 3.

The program is one of the highlights of the province’s Linggo ng Kabataan celebration.

Roniel John R. Figueroa leads the 15 selected student officials who will serve as counterparts of Iloilo provincial government officials during a three-day leadership immersion.

The Panlalawigang Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang Kabataan-Iloilo organized the program.

In his message, Figueroa said he hopes to use his role to promote critical thinking among children and young people.

Drawing from his experience as a member of his municipality’s debate society, Figueroa said he wants to encourage young people to think critically and become more engaged in civic affairs.

Iloilo Vice Gov. Nathalie Ann Debuque said the provincial government considers young people not only beneficiaries of government programs but also active partners in governance.

“Everything we do is for our youth, so that you may grow up in a peaceful and orderly province. Here in the Provincial Government, the youth are not merely beneficiaries of our programs,” Debuque said.

Debuque added that age does not determine a person’s ability to lead effectively.

She also emphasized the important role of young people in advancing good governance.

The Boy and Girl Officials Program brought together student applicants from schools across Iloilo province who underwent a selection process before being chosen for the leadership immersion.

During the three-day program, the students will observe government operations, participate in official activities, and gain firsthand experience in local governance.

Figueroa will be joined by Pia B. Ladrillo of Barotac Viejo National High School, who was selected as the 2026 Girl Vice Governor.

The province also selected student counterparts for officials representing Iloilo’s five legislative districts.

Other participants will serve as counterparts of representatives from the Philippine Councilors League, Liga ng mga Barangay, and Panlalawigang Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang Kabataan.

The assignments are intended to expose the students to various aspects of provincial and local governance.

The initiative forms part of Iloilo’s annual Linggo ng Kabataan celebration, which promotes leadership development, civic engagement, and participation in public service.

Under the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Act of 2015, provinces, cities, municipalities, and barangays must hold Linggo ng Kabataan during the week that includes Aug. 12, in conjunction with International Youth Day.