BM Kitongan to youth during 1st SDO Kalinga Leadership Summit: “True leadership is service, NOT holding the highest position”

Pinukpuk, Kalinga — Leadership should not be measured by title, position, or influence, but by the service shown through one’s actions, according to Kalinga Board Member Emilio Kitongan.

Kitongan made the statement during the 1st Leadership Summit of the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Kalinga on May 17, 2026, in Pinukpuk, where he spoke to young learners about the true meaning of leadership in today’s changing society.

In his message during the activity, Kitongan said many people often associate leadership with authority or being in charge. However, he stressed that real leadership is reflected in daily actions, in how a person serves others, makes good decisions, and stands for what is right even without recognition.

Kitongan pointed out that leadership in Kalinga is already embedded in its culture through traditional systems that value peace, unity, and guidance from elders.

These values, he said, must be maintained by the youth as they adapt to the demands of the modern world, where they are expected to become more responsive, informed, and proactive in solving community problems.

“Leadership is not about holding the highest position or having the loudest voice. True leadership is service. It is the courage to stand up for what is right, the wisdom to listen, and the heart to lift others even when it is difficult. In our Kalinga context, leadership has always been rooted in our culture — in the bodong system that promotes peace and mutual respect, in the resilience of our farmers and warriors, and in the wisdom of our elders. Everything is changing rapidly,” said Kitongan.

As chairman of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Education, Kitongan urged the young participants to lead with integrity, empathy, inclusiveness, resilience, and vision.

“What kind of leaders does Kalinga need from you? Leaders with integrity. Your word must be your bond. In a world where shortcuts and fake news are common, people will follow those they can trust. Leaders with vision: Do not wait to be given a title. Start seeing problems in your barangay or school and think of solutions. A leader sees tomorrow and works today to make it better. Leaders with empathy and inclusiveness. Kalinga is rich in diversity — different tribes, beliefs, and backgrounds. Great leaders bring people together. Listen to those who are different from you. Protect the vulnerable. Leaders with resilience. You will face failures, criticisms, and disappointments. Fall down seven times and stand up eight. Every challenge is training for greater responsibility,” Kitongan conveyed.

Concluding his message, the board member also expressed gratitude to educators and partners for guiding the young iKalingas, noting that their efforts play a vital role in shaping the province’s future leaders.