Most participants during the Youth Summit held last June 14, 2015 in Daliao curiously asked about the meaning of democracy, or whether or not there is democracy in the country. In particular, one participant asked why supposedly democratic countries are actually the poorest. Ms. Jeresa May Ochave, director for communications at the Centrist Democracy Political Institute, gamely responded to those questions by highlighting the principles of democratic governance, which according to her are rooted in the rule of law, the bottoms-up or participatory approach, and the principle of subsidiarity. She encouraged the youth to understand more fully the meaning of true democratic participation and public accountability, which she says are the two things that elected officials should commit themselves in. The serious topic is a challenge to the participants, but the speaker has been able to navigate with ease explaining things to the young people in attendance. Meanwhile, Fr. Dexter Veloso of the Saint Francis Xavier College Seminary shared with the participants the importance of respecting the dignity of people, and the value of moral integrity in public service. He emphasized the importance of justice as the minimum of love, and encouraged the youth to seek the common good. Lastly, Professor Peter Elicor elaborated the value of teamwork in getting things done. The participants eagerly shared their understanding of democratic leadership in the team building workshop. PB Rodolfo Te was elated that the Youth Summit was very enriching for all the participants, who were also expected to make an action plan for the youth in the next five (5) years.
