Caraga youth to represent Phl in 39th SSEAYP

Friday 10th of August 2012

MANILA, Aug. 10 (PIA) -- The National Youth Commission (NYC) has chosen Neil Mendoza Lastimosa of Caraga region as one of the 28 young Filipinos to represent the country as Youth Ambassador of Goodwill in this year’s Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Program (SSEAYP).

Lastimosa successfully passed a series of competitive selection process and was oriented and trained in diplomatic affairs, youth leadership and culture and the arts, among others, so that he may embody the best of the Philippines’ values, culture and vision during the international program from October 22 until December 14 this year.

Specifically, he will have the rare opportunity to interact with fellow international youths and discuss relevant issues affecting the youth in the regional association and the world. He will join courtesy calls with dignitaries, help showcase the country’s traditional culture and arts, and immerse with other cultures.

Now on its 39th year, the SSEAYP is sponsored by the Japanese government and supported by member-states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

On board Japanese Liner Fuji Maru, the chosen 28 Philippine delegates and more than 300 other youths from all over Southeast Asia will visit six countries, namely, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei and Japan for an exchange program that will foster diplomacy, cultural understanding and cooperation between and among youth leaders in the ASEAN and Japan. (NYC/PIA-Caraga)