On the ASPAC Stage: JCI Surigao North Makes History!

Flagship program NorthBiz officially recognized as an international ASPAC Award Finalist.

On the ASPAC Podium: A Triumph of Community and Enterprise
JCI Surigao North is proud to announce that our flagship program, NorthBiz, officially secured its place on the international stage as an ASPAC Award Finalist!
This milestone marks a historic achievement for our young local organization.
When we designed NorthBiz, we envisioned a platform built to develop young entrepreneurs while fueling the grassroots economy. To be recognized on an international platform validates that our strategic execution and community-first enterprise model are truly world-class.
This victory belongs entirely to our general membership. We extend our deepest gratitude to our dedicated members, local partners, and patrons. Your trust and support turned our vision into an international podium-finishing platform.
We will keep going forward with global validation and a renewed commitment to lead with purpose, innovation, and compassion. Thank you for making this journey possible!
Forward Together, JCI Surigao North.

Breaking Barriers: JCI Surigao North Empowers Island Youth

Equipping young leaders in Sta. Monica with essential leadership skills and self-awareness.

JCI Surigao North’s 2026 Local Skills Development Director and JCI Philippines Northern Mindanao 2026 Regional Skills Development Director, Raxiey G. Adolfo, shared his expertise on leadership development as one of the resource speakers during the Youth Summer Camp 2026 held at Alegria National High School last May 26, 2026. With the theme “Breaking Barriers, Building Bond,” the camp gathered student leaders from various schools, youth organizations, and out-of-school youth across the Municipality of Sta. Monica for a meaningful learning and leadership experience. Through an engaging discussion on Leadership Styles, participants gained valuable insights on effective leadership, self-awareness, and the importance of adapting to different situations while serving their communities.
As an organization committed to creating positive change, JCI Surigao North continues to support initiatives that empower young people to become capable, responsible, and service-oriented leaders, even in island communities. By investing in leadership education and youth development programs, the organization hopes to inspire the next generation to break barriers, build stronger connections, and contribute meaningfully to the progress of their communities.

Fueling the Finish Line: JCI Surigao North at Surigao Marathon 2026!

Keeping runners hydrated and energized as they challenged their limits.

Last May 31, 2026, JCI Surigao North proudly took part in the Surigao Marathon 2026, organized by the City Government of Surigao, by serving as one of the official Hydration Stations strategically positioned along the race route.
As hundreds of 42km and 21km runners challenged their limits and embraced the spirit of health, discipline, and perseverance, JCI Surigao North members stood ready to provide hydration and some snacks and healthy fruits and encouragement, helping participants stay hydrated, energized, and focused throughout the event. More than simply distributing hydration, the chapter’s presence symbolized its commitment to community service and active citizenship.
JCI Surigao North believes that meaningful development begins with healthy and empowered communities. By supporting sporting events such as the Surigao Marathon, the organization promotes wellness, volunteerism, youth engagement, and collaboration among various sectors of society. These initiatives align with JCI’s mission of creating positive change through active leadership and community involvement.
This also wouldn’t be possible without the initiative of the Project Chairperson Director Rjan Mark Canoy together with dedicated members who were at the venue before the 42km gunstart. Thank you for your support and dedication to the organization and community.
JCI Surigao North extends its congratulations to all marathon participants, organizers, volunteers, and partners who contributed to the success of Surigao Marathon 2026. Together, we continue to create opportunities for positive change and inspire a culture of wellness, resilience, and service.

Celebrating Excellence: Youth Leadership Excellence Awards 2026!

Honoring the province’s top students and training them for purposeful governance.

Outstanding student leaders from across the province were recognized for their civic and academic achievements during the Youth Leadership Excellence Award (YLEA) 2026 held at the Go Negosyo Center.
The recognition and training event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of JCI Surigao North, JCI Surigao Nickel, and JCI Surigao Wensie.
To equip the young awardees for future governance, the program featured two core development sessions. Kenn Edgar A. Parojinog, 2026 Vice President for Individual Development of JCI Surigao North, anchored the training with his talk, “Youth Leadership in a Nutshell: Why Leading with Purpose Matters?” He challenged the youth to move past superficial titles and lead with a permanent, vision-driven purpose.
Following this, Angelica Navarro, 2026 Local Skills and Development Director of JCI Surigao Wensie, facilitated a vital session on Mental Health, providing essential strategies for resilience and self-care.
The ceremony also featured an inspiring keynote address by Hon. John Lester R. Fetalvero, Municipal Vice Mayor of Sison, alongside a message of support from a Palawan Pawnshop representative advocating for youth empowerment.
The event culminated in the formal conferment of the YLEA to the province’s top-performing students. Through extensive logistical groundwork and seamless organizational coordination, the joint JCI initiative successfully delivered a platform that not only celebrated past achievements but actively prepared the province’s youth for purposeful leadership.

Active Citizens: Katig Kabataan Module 3 Launches!

Empowering Sama Bajau youth with emergency readiness and community safety skills.

On June 6, 2026, JCI Surigao North successfully conducted Module 3 of “KATIG KABATAAN” Phase II at the Sama Bajau Eco Village in Sitio Panubigon, Brgy. Lipata. Titled “LIDER KABATAAN: Active Citizens for Community Safety and Security,” the session focused on teaching the youth how to keep their new resettlement home and neighbors safe.
The week’s module was made possible through a strategic partnership with the Northeastern Mindanao Colleges (NEMCO) Research Office, headed by Mr. Randy Retulla. Serving as the resource speaker, Criminology Student Leader Mr. Mark Angelo Gabitano led an engaging, practical discussion on basic city rules, situational awareness, and emergency preparedness.
Through this interactive session, the Sama Bajau youth leaders learned how to clearly report emergencies and exactly who to call for help when crises arise. By translating safety protocols into actionable civic habits, JCI Surigao North and NEMCO have effectively empowered the youth to step up as proactive partners in peace, safety, and community resilience within Sitio Panubigon.

Stewards of the Shores: Katig Kabataan Module 2!

Empowering Sama Bajau youth to protect their marine ecosystem from plastic pollution.

May 16, 2026 – the Sama Bajau Eco Village in Sitio Panubigon, Brgy. Lipata, Surigao City, transformed into an outdoor classroom for environmental advocacy as JCI Surigao North rolled out the second module of “KATIG KABATAAN: Empowering the Voyage of the Sama Bajau Youth (Empowered Bajau Phase II).” Appropriately titled “SUYOG: Stewards of the Gifted Shores,” this week’s session shifted the focus toward coastal conservation, waste management, and ecological responsibility. Building directly upon the sense of community pride established during the previous week’s opening, the module aimed to teach the youth that treating their new relocation site as a precious gift requires active, hands-on protection of its marine ecosystems.
This critical leg of the voyage was made possible through a dynamic partnership with the Surigao Youth Convergence (SYG). Capitalizing on their expertise in youth-led advocacy, the dedicated SYG fellows facilitated a comprehensive, creative, and highly engaging discussion centered around the localized environmental storybook, “Wikan, Ang Batang Pawikan.” By navigating the narrative of Wikan, a young sea turtle facing the threats of marine pollution, the Sama Bajau youth were able to easily connect complex ecological habits with real-world consequences. The interactive storytelling session successfully underscored the importance of keeping plastic waste off the beaches and out of the ocean, inspiring the participants to become defensive lines for their local waters.
By translating environmental governance into an immersive, youth-friendly format, the collaborative effort between JCI Surigao North and the Surigao Youth Convergence directly advanced UN Sustainable Development Goals 13 (Climate Action), 14 (Life Below Water), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). The afternoon concluded with the youth demonstrating a shared commitment to keeping their shoreline clean, proving that they are rapidly transitioning from mere residents into proactive guardians of the Eco Village. As Module 2 draws to a successful close, the Katig Kabataan roadmap turns its sights toward Module 3, where the youth leaders will soon begin navigating the vital concepts of civic duty, community safety, and emergency response.

Sizzling Success: JCI Surigao North at the Pasayan Festival 2026!

Supporting local governance and coastal heritage through a massive street-cooking showdown.

SURIGAO CITY, PHILIPPINES — Borromeo Street transformed into a vibrant, sizzling culinary hub on May 15, 2026, as locals and visitors gathered for the highly anticipated Pasayan Festival 2026. Held in tandem with the historic milestone of the 125th Adlaw nan Surigao del Norte, the festival brought the community together to celebrate local culture, abundance, and the enduring spirit of unity.
Among the key organizations bringing energy to the streets was JCI Surigao North. Showing that active citizenship extends from community development right into the heart of local cultural celebrations, the chapter took center stage in the festival’s grand culinary showdown.
40 Kilograms, 4 Dishes, One United Team. The challenge was as exciting as it was demanding: each participating group was assigned a massive 40 kilograms of fresh, locally caught shrimps.
With firewoods lit and wok stoves ready, the JCI Surigao North team immediately went to work, turning the raw bounty into a spectacular four-course showcase. Demonstrating incredible synergy and culinary creativity, the members prepared four distinct shrimp dishes, capturing the rich flavors of the province and drawing crowds to their station.
The live cooking demonstration highlighted more than just great food; it put the chapter’s teamwork, leadership, and passion for community immersion on full display.
Organized by the Provincial Government of Surigao del Norte under the leadership of Governor Robert Lyndon S. Barbers, the Pasayan Festival 2026 served as a powerful prelude to the evening’s massive Alibugjaw Concert. For JCI Surigao North, participating was a premier opportunity to support local governance, uplift the city’s coastal heritage, and foster camaraderie with fellow Surigaonons.

Katig Kabataan: Empowering the Sama Bajau Youth!

Launching Phase II with a focus on identity, wellness, and indigenous development.

The Sama Bajau Eco Village in Sitio Panubigon, Brgy. Lipata, Surigao City, became a vibrant hub of cultural pride and leadership development on May 10, 2026, as JCI Surigao North officially launched the opening program of “KATIG KABATAAN: Empowering the Voyage of the Sama Bajau Youth (Empowered Bajau Phase II).” The maiden session, titled “PAGKILALA: Foundations of Identity and Self-Care,” marks a significant milestone as it officially falls under Lakbay Katutubo, a JCI Philippines National Program dedicated to the inclusion, recognition, and development of indigenous communities across the country.
The formal program commenced with an opening prayer, followed by a warm welcome message from Sama-Bajau Chieftain Dahila Araman, who expressed deep appreciation for the gathering at the center. The event was further graced by key leaders who delivered powerful messages of support, spearheaded by 2026 Regional Vice President for Northern Mindanao Junelyn Chavez, who shared an moving, inspirational message that challenged the youth to embrace their potential. Her words were beautifully complemented by messages from Mary Clarisse Khezia M. Hernandez-Libarios, the 2026 LO President of co-host chapter JCI Kagayhaan Gold, and Maria Elvira B. Duka, Team Leader of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) Philippines. Marking the second part of the program, the collective commitment of the partners materialized through the formal turn over of learning materials, directly equipping the young community members with essential tools for their development.
The next part of the program featured a highly interactive and more personal sessions designed for the attending Sama Bajau youth leaders. Rhodnie Sugano, LSDD of JCI Kagayhaan Gold, facilitated the session focusing on proper hygiene and sanitation, teaching the young participants how personal wellness acts as a vital form of community respect.
The successful launch drew to a close with an empowering closing message from Jemima S. Plaza, the 2026 LO President of JCI Surigao North. Supported by UN-Habitat Philippines, LYDO Surigao City, and SK Brgy. Lipata, this collaborative effort successfully set a strong, unified foundation for the remainder of the five-week voyage.

Transforming Service: The Clean Water & Sanitation Launch

JCI Surigao North joins forces with JCI Surigao Nickel to promote youth wellness.

Clean water is more than a necessity — it is dignity, health, and opportunity. 💧
In the afternoon of May 09, 2026, JCI Surigao North led by 2026 LO President Jemima S. Plaza proudly joined as co-host for the JCI Philippines Mindanao Area 5 Launching of National Program Clean Water and Sanitation at Patrecio A. Bernaldez Memorial National High School together with JCI Surigao Nickel as lead host.
The initiative highlighted the importance of creating safer and healthier learning environments for students and communities through programs that promote proper sanitation, hygiene awareness, and access to clean water. More than a project launch, it was a collective commitment toward building sustainable communities where wellness and dignity are prioritized.
Together with JCI Philippines Northern Mindanao Region leaders led by 2026 Regional Vice President Junelyn Chavez, Area Chair David Zabala, National Chair Maria Teresa “Reese” Arseña, and fellow partners in service, the activity became another meaningful step toward creating lasting impact through collaboration and shared purpose.
JCI Surigao North is honored to stand alongside organizations and leaders who continue to transform service into action and compassion into community impact. ✨

Bags of Hope: Sharing Smiles at Mat-i Elementary School

Inspiring young learners through simple acts of generosity and kindness.

Service begins where hope is shared. 🧡
Last May 09, 2026 – JCI Surigao North, led by 2026 LO President Jemima S. Plaza, proudly stood as co-host for the JCI Philippines Mindanao Area 5 Launching of the National Program Bags of Hope held at Mat-i Elementary School together with JCI Surigao Wensie as the lead host.
More than the distribution of school bags and supplies, the initiative became a reminder that even simple acts of generosity can inspire confidence, encouragement, and brighter opportunities for young learners. Seeing the smiles of the students and the unity among partner organizations reflected what JCI service is truly about — creating positive change through collaboration and compassion.
With the leadership of 2026 LO President of JCI Surigao Wensie, Sheila Lauren Palma-Mijares as lead host, and the support of the entire JCI Philippines Northern Mindanao Region led by 2026 Regional Vice President Junelyn Chavez, Area Chairperson Viera Ordiz, National Chairperson Ma. Theresa Augusta Alolor, and fellow JCIP NorthMin leaders, the activity became a meaningful start to a weekend dedicated to impact and purpose.
JCI Surigao North remains grateful for every opportunity to serve, connect, and help build communities where hope continues to grow — one bag, one child, and one act of kindness at a time. ✨
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