Abrenian leader represents PH in ASEAN Youth Volunteer program

Precious Ruby Orosco, the former Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Chairman of Barangay Lagben, Langilang, Abra, has been selected to represent the Philippines in the first year of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Youth Volunteer Program in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The Government of Japan, through the Japan-ASEAN Integrated Fund, supported the said program, with the theme “Community Based Disaster Risk Reduction and Preparedness”, to stimulate volunteerism among ASEAN member states to strengthen the ASEAN community, promoting disaster resilience.

In an interview with Guru Press Cordillera, Orosco, who garnered national recognition as “Outstanding SK Chairman of the Year 2023”, explained the reasons why the committee chose her for the national acclaim, stating that her background in health and experience in disaster risk reduction align well with the qualifications required for participation in ASEAN program.

“During my tenure, my committee and I spearheaded initiative focused on health and environmental restoration. These endeavors played a pivotal role in the assessment process for the award, affirming its significance in shaping my journey in the ASEAN level”, she explained.

When asked about the learnings gained from the program that are applicable to addressing challenges in her community, Ms. Orosco emphasized the urgent need for disaster preparedness.

Inspired by her firsthand experiences, she advocates for Basic Life Support Training for youth, highlighting the importance of education and access to equipment to mitigate risks. Also, given our nation’s susceptibility to typhoons, her practical experience in water purification proves to be an invaluable skill in preparing for such disasters.

Orosco stressed her commitment to community-based disaster preparedness and shared her long-term aspirations beyond personal endeavors.

“Even though I am not in the line of politics anymore, the best thing that I can do is to support continuous campaigns and collaborative projects to other organizations in order to spread awareness and knowledge with disaster risk reduction response…I am open to people doing collaborative projects wherein I can share my knowledge and learnings from the ASEAN Volunteers Program,” she asserted.

Around 100 youths from the 10 ASEAN member states actively engaged in a 22-day program, spanning from February 18 to March 10, 2024.

Throughout the event, she partook in diverse lectures, discussions, and community immersions aimed at equipping her with the knowledge and skills to adapt to climate change and reduce catastrophe risk in local communities.