‘You matter. Speak up when you need help’ — Mayor Abay urges iTinglayan youth to combat bullying and manage mental health problems

TINGLAYAN, Kalinga — “You matter. Your voice matters. Your dreams matter.”

With this message, Tinglayan Mayor Charles Abay encouraged young people in the municipality to speak up and seek help whenever they are struggling, assuring them that there is a community willing to listen and help.

Represented by Municipal Administrator Atty. Mark Dave Bang-as during the Linggo ng Kabataan celebration on August 14, Abay emphasized that the municipal government values the youth and wants the next generation to achieve their dreams and aspirations.

He described young people as important partners in building a more progressive Tinglayan.

“To our young people, I want you to remember this: you matter. Your voice matters. Your dreams matter,” Abay emphasized.

For this reason, the local chief executive urged young people not to hesitate to seek help when they need it.

“If you are struggling, do not be afraid to speak. If you are being bullied, do not suffer in silence. If you see someone being hurt or abused, do not simply look away. There are people who are willing to listen and help,” he said.

Abay also challenged youth leaders to help create a safe space where their fellow young people can openly share their struggles and seek support.

He assured the youth that the Municipal Local Government Unit (MLGU) continues to support initiatives promoting their welfare, safety, dignity, and development.

However, Abay stressed that the LGU cannot do this alone, noting that the support of parents, teachers, youth leaders, community officials, and every member of the community is essential in protecting and empowering the younger generation.

“Let us build a Tinglayan where every young person feels safe to speak, safe to dream, and safe to become the person God intended them to be,” he said.

His message underscored the importance of creating a community where young people know that they are valued, heard, and never alone when facing difficulties.