Tinglayan youth turn screen time into strength as LGU tackles mental health, cyber safety

TINGLAYAN, Kalinga — As the digital world continues to shape the lives of young people, the Municipality of Tinglayan is equipping its youth with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the internet safely and responsibly.

The local government marked this year’s Linggo ng Kabataan with a symposium on mental health and responsible digital citizenship at the Municipal Hall on August 14, 2026.

Anchored on the theme “Youth Advancing Multilateral Cooperation Through Technology and Partnerships,” the activity brought together youth leaders from across the municipality for discussions on cybercrime prevention, online safety, anti-cyberbullying, and mental health awareness.

The symposium aimed to strengthen the capacity of Tinglayan’s youth to protect themselves and their fellow young people from cybercrime, online exploitation, and other digital threats.

It also encouraged responsible social media use by promoting respect, kindness, and accountability in online interactions.

Beyond digital safety, the activity provided a space for young people to openly discuss mental health, highlighting the importance of resilience, self-care, and seeking help and support when needed.

Representing Mayor Charles Abay, Municipal Administrator Atty. Mark Dave Bang-as emphasized that while technology provides powerful opportunities for learning, connection, and progress, it also exposes young people to risks such as cyberbullying, exploitation, and other online dangers.

“That is why awareness is protection. By learning about mental health, digital safety, anti-cyberbullying, and the prevention of online sexual abuse and exploitation, we become better prepared to protect ourselves and, more importantly, to protect one another,” he said.

The activity underscored the municipality’s commitment to developing young people who are not only digitally responsible but also mentally resilient and ready to contribute positively to their communities.

The Tinglayan LGU expressed its appreciation to the personnel who prepared and coordinated the activity, as well as to the resource speakers who shared their knowledge and expertise with the participants.

The local government likewise recognized the youth as more than just the “hope of the nation,” but as active partners and drivers of positive change in Tinglayan.

With the right knowledge, support, and opportunities, the municipality hopes its young people can turn the challenges of the digital age into opportunities to learn, lead, and make a difference.