By Philippines Blessed Children Dep. And Youth Dep.
In collaboration with the National Youth Department, the Philippine Blessed Children Department (PBCD) organized the DREAM Philippines (National Youth Leaders Convergence) from December 22 to 24, 2024 at Sun Hwa International Academy, Rizal. The event brought together youth leaders from across the country to deepen participants’ understanding of leadership, strengthen their connection to the Providence, and unify their goals as members of the FFWPU Youth community. A total of 31 participants attended, including officers from the International Association of Youth and Students for Peace (IAYSP), Blessed Children Department (BCD), Collegiate Association for the Research of Principles (CARP), Tong-Il Moo Do instructors, youth pastors, and National Leadership Training Program commanders and captains.
The workshop aimed to nurture future leaders committed to fulfilling the dream of Heavenly Parent and True Parents. It allowed participants to clarify their roles, embrace their responsibilities, and foster a cohesive vision for the Youth Department in the Philippines. The three-day event combined lectures, presentations, and interactive sessions designed to empower participants with practical skills and knowledge.
On the first day, the event opened with an introduction to the Youth Department by Mr. Angelito Cainday, National Director of FFWPU Youth Department Philippines. This was followed by Mr. Ronnie Sodusta, President of IAYSP Asia Pacific, who spoke on “The Path of Hyojeongrang,” and Mr. Hiroto Guingayan, PBCD President, who discussed the relevance of “Cheongshimwon’s Calling Out Prayer” especially as youth leaders. Mr. Erik Celnikasi, a Hyojeong Top Gun Missionary, highlighted the “Importance of Chambomoron.” Participants gained a deeper appreciation for the spiritual foundation of leadership, including the significance of prayer, devotion, and aligning their goals with Heavenly Parent’s will and True Mother’s vision. The day concluded with a movie screening of Wild Robot, where participants were able to connect with and understand the heart of True Mother.
The second day emphasized leadership in action and community building. Mr. Jun Young Teves, Center Leader of the CARP Ministry Metro Manila, delivered a lecture on “Witnessing Centered on Church Growth.” His lecture was complemented by a testimony from Mr. Emilio Granada of the FFWPU Youth Center in Morong. Mr. Hiroto Guingayan presented on “Community Building Through Youth Service and Music,” while Mrs. Hiromi Silong, PBCD Adviser, provided insights on pastoral care and the importance of cultivating a parental heart as youth leaders. Participants engaged in breakout sessions within their respective organizations centering on implementing homegroups which brought out practical strategies for strengthening their individual communities. This was an opportunity for members to share ideas, challenges, and strategies for promoting active participation and unity within their youth organizations. Dr. Robert Kittel, Cheon Eui Won Chair, FFWPU Asia Pacific, delivered a lecture titled “God’s Dream and God’s Nightmare,” and Mr. Jason Ibo, Director of HJ Youth Leadership Training–Regional Task Force, shared a presentation on “Mission as Preparation for the Blessing.” The day ended with Shimjeong Night, where participants shared heartfelt reflections and strengthened their bonds as a unified group. Overall, they gained valuable insights into building meaningful connections and inspiring others in their communities.
The final day of the event focused on empowering participants to take on greater leadership roles in the Era of Cheon Il Guk. The day began with a lecture titled “Our Attitude in the Era of Cheon Il Guk” by Rev. Leo Angelo Halog, National Leader of FFWPU Philippines, which emphasized the mindset and responsibilities needed in this new era centering on True Mother. Dr. Julius Malicdem, Vice President of FFWPU Asia Pacific, followed with a special lecture on “The Current Providence,” providing updates on the ongoing providence and its relevance to the role of the participants. Mrs. Hiromi Silong conducted a lecture on “Coaching 101 – Raising Future Leaders,” where she educated participants on how to be the right kind of leader with the proper heart and mindset. Mr. Jun Young Teves presented a session on “Basic Organizational Management,” equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to manage resources. The sessions ended with a lecture by Mr. Francis Nolasco, Director of NLTP, on “Sustainability Method – Community Funding,” which focused on methods to secure funding for community initiatives and ensure their long-term sustainability. These lectures equipped participants with essential skills and a clear framework for leading effectively. By the end of the day, they were ready to implement their leadership roles and make a lasting impact within their communities in the Era of Cheon Il Guk.
The event ended with a graduation ceremony featuring reflections from representative participants Himsen Faith Paray, Officer of BCD–Region 3, Darren Basabe, Officer of BCD–Region 5, and Clint Clatero, IAYSP President Cebu Chapter. They shared how the program had a profound impact on their understanding of leadership and their roles within their communities. They expressed gratitude for the insights and practical tools they gained and how the workshop reignited their passion for service. Many highlighted how the lectures and interactions inspired them to align their personal goals with the Providence and feel more motivated to contribute to their respective roles with renewed determination. Special messages from Mr. Francis Nolasco and closing remarks by Mr. Angelito Cainday underscored the significance of the workshop. Both speakers emphasized the importance of training oneself to be leaders of heart—leaders who can bring the community along with the moving providence, supporting True Mother in fulfilling Heavenly Parent’s dream. They highlighted the essential role of personal growth and dedication in becoming leaders who guide others with love and commitment.
The DREAM Philippines (National Youth Leaders Convergence) concluded victoriously, empowering participants with the knowledge, skills, and vision needed to lead with purpose. It nurtured a sense of unity and dedication among youth leaders, marking a significant step toward creating a generation committed to advancing the Providence, supporting True Mother, and fulfilling Heavenly Parent’s dream.