Agay NHS and LYDC Empower Youth Through Peer Navigator Trainings

RTR, Agusan del Norte — With the shared vision of promoting peace, mental wellness, and youth empowerment, the Agay National High School (Agay NHS) in partnership with the Local Youth Development Council (LYDC) of RTR successfully conducted a two-part Peer Navigator Training on October 2–3, 2025 (Batch 1) and October 9–10, 2025 (Batch 2) at the Tagnotes Falls Function Hall, RTR, Agusan del Norte.

Anchored on the theme “The Role of Peer Navigators in Peace and Order,” the training gathered a total of 190 student-participants from Agay NHS and Balang-Balang NHS who were trained to become advocates of mental health, responsible leadership, and community harmony.

Funded by the Local Government Unit of RTR under the leadership of Hon. Mayor Richard Daquipil, the activity was implemented as part of the municipality’s Peace and Order Program in partnership with the Local Youth Development Council, headed by Mr. Nestor Silling, and the YOLO (Youth Optimizing Life Opportunities) program of Agay NHS. The initiative aimed to strengthen the participation of young leaders in promoting peace and well-being within their schools and communities.

The training featured insightful discussions and interactive learning sessions facilitated by distinguished speakers:

• Mr. Jayson Patalinghug, YOLO Coordinator of Agay NHS, discussed “Peer Navigators as Influencers,” tackled top issues in schools based on the HEEADSS assessment, and demonstrated how to perform Psychosocial First Aid.

• Ms. Roslyn Doliente, Gender and Development (GAD) Focal Person of Caraga State University – Cabadbaran Campus, delivered a session on “Learners’ Rights and Protection,” emphasizing the importance of safe and inclusive learning spaces.

• Pastor Michael Feril shared a spiritual perspective through his talk on “Spiritual Approaches in Dealing with Anxiety and Depression,” reminding students of the importance of faith in maintaining mental health.

Mayor Richard Daquipil, shows his full support for programs that invest in youth development, highlighting that peace and order in the community begin with well-guided and responsible young people. Mr. Nestor Silling likewise emphasized the LYDC’s commitment to capacitating youth volunteers as partners in implementing the local government’s peace initiatives.

According to Mr. Patalinghug, the Peer Navigator program enables students to serve as “first responders” to their peers’ emotional and social concerns, promoting empathy, understanding, and positive influence.

Participants expressed gratitude to the LGU RTR, LYDC, and Agay NHS for organizing the meaningful training. They pledged to use their learnings to promote peace, mental health awareness, and responsible leadership among their fellow students.

As the event concluded, both organizers and participants reaffirmed their shared goal — to build a peaceful, compassionate, and youth-driven community where students are not just learners, but leaders and changemakers for peace and order.