Iloilo welcomes young changemakers for JCI Visayas conference

By Joseph Bernard A. Marzan

An estimated 400 to 500 Junior Chamber International Philippines members from across the Visayas are expected to gather in Iloilo City for the 46th Visayas Area Conference from Sept. 4-6, 2026.

JCI Regatta Iloilo will host the conference, known as AREACON, under the theme “Hala Bira: The Rhythm of Change.”

The annual conference will bring together members of local organizations from Western, Central and Eastern Visayas.

One of JCI Philippines’ largest annual gatherings for young active citizens in the Visayas, AREACON provides opportunities for leadership development, collaboration and recognition.

The conference also serves as a venue for discussing regional priorities.

Organizers aim to strengthen the JCI brand by showcasing regional excellence, deepening member engagement and expanding the organization’s impact across sectors.

The conference also seeks to develop leadership skills, encourage project innovation and foster unity through training sessions, competitions and fellowship activities.

Certified JCI trainers will lead sessions on leadership and skills development.

National and regional speakers will participate in forums, while mentorship and networking activities will connect delegates from across the region.

Competitions in public speaking, debate and talent will also be held.

The conference will include Area Council meetings and elections for JCI Philippines’ 2027 national and Visayas board officers.

Social and cultural activities will include a welcome night, a cultural night showcasing Iloilo’s artistry, and the Quadro Awards and Gala Night.

The regular registration fee is PHP 6,000 per delegate.

The fee covers training sessions, competitions and fellowship activities; an official “Hala Bira” registration kit; the LaOn, or Lagaw + Kaon, Tour; and designated meals.

The organizer’s conference microsite lists the program as tentative and says final details on venues, event times and attire will be announced later.

The event is expected to draw JCI members, including newly inducted members from Area 4 chapters, chapter presidents, directors, key chapter officers, and national and area officers.

The theme draws inspiration from Iloilo’s Dinagyang Festival and reflects the organization’s commitment to collective leadership and service.

It also represents how JCI members “collectively drive progress” through leadership, innovation, partnerships and community engagement.

An event primer states, “Hala Bira: Rhythm of Change captures the spirit of the Visayas, especially Iloilo—bold, united, and always moving forward.”

It adds: “‘Hala Bira’ is a call to action, a cheer of courage and energy, reminding us to keep pushing, keep creating, and keep serving.”

JCI Philippines was established in 1947 and has 281 local organizations, according to Junior Chamber International’s national organization directory.

Globally, JCI connects young leaders in more than 5,000 communities across over 100 countries, with a mission of providing leadership development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change, according to the organization’s official website.

Further details are available on the conference’s official Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/JCIP46thVisayasAreaCon) and JCI Regatta Iloilo microsite (https://www.jciregattailoilo.org/areacon_.