Youth Rise in El Nido: A Movement to End Teen Pregnancy and HIV Starts with the Youth

March 24, 2018 - El Nido, Palawan - It’s easy to fall in love with El Nido. With its crystal-clear waters, towering limestone cliffs, and world-famous islands, the place feels like paradise. But behind the breathtaking beauty lies a reality that many don't see, a growing number of teenage pregnancies and rising HIV infections silently threatening the future of our youth.

On March 23–24, 2018, we gathered, not as tourists, but as young people, leaders, and advocates determined to change the narrative. Over 100 youth leaders from El Nido came together for the Youth Congress with the theme “Kabataan Palakasin, Pamumuno Pagpagtibayin, Hinaharap ay Pagyamanin.” It was more than just a gathering—it was a movement. A movement to claim our right to lead, to be heard, and to take part in shaping a healthier and more empowered future for ourselves and for the next generation.

The heart of our discussions was Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). With the support of The Forum for Family Planning and Development, led by Ms. Chi Laigo-Vallido, we were given a comprehensive orientation on the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health (RPRH) Law. We learned about our rights, our responsibilities, and the life-saving information that could protect us from unplanned pregnancies, gender-based violence, and HIV and AIDS. We talked openly about SOGIE (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression), consent, and the importance of inclusive and youth-friendly health services.

It was eye-opening—and for many, life-changing.

Mayor Rosento (Left-side)

The municipal mayor, Hon. Nieves C. Rosento, stood with young people of El Nido. “You are not just the future of El Nido,” she said. “You are the present. Help us craft a community where young people are safe, healthy, and empowered.” She urged us to value education, participate in local solutions, and never stop learning. Her words were not just encouragement, they were a call to action.

While we were deep in plenary discussions, a separate workshop titled “Bridging the Gaps in Teaching Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (ASRH)” was held for 20 dedicated educators. Teachers play a crucial role in shaping how young people understand their bodies, relationships, and health—and seeing their commitment to learn with us gave me hope.

The congress ended not with applause, but with commitment. "We, the youth of El Nido, pledged to stand at the forefront of the campaign to stop HIV and end teenage pregnancy. We are no longer just bystanders—we are advocates, peer educators, and community builders."

The beaches of El Nido will always be beautiful, but imagine how much more beautiful our community could be if our young people were healthy, empowered, and supported. That’s the El Nido we’re fighting for. And we’re just getting started.