PHILIPPINE MODEL CONGRESS - BATANGAS

May 11-12, 2018
De La Salle Lipa

A time where the youth share their stands regarding laws of the Philippines. It was surely a nose bleeding experience, but in a fascinating way.

Participants came from different schools around Batangas. 

Youth aged 18 to their 20's gathered around the CB function hall early in the morning. Every delegate wore corporate attire and had packed within their brains, all the knowledge about everything related to the subject matter.

Everyone had to respect and acknowledge each other before speaking.

There were three people in front who served as the chairman of the congress and the delegates shared opinions, defended exclamations, and declared examples and stated proofs.

Kabataan Partylist Representative Hon. Congresswoman Ms.Ilago giving a speech.

The two days centered on the 3 proposed bills (a bill is a proposed law that will undergo a lot of debates and structured criticisms) that were carefully prepared by students.  I am not an actual law student, the only background I have about governmental concerns is the previous college courses (Society and Culture, Politics and Government, Labor law) and the news that I hear at times. So you might be wondering, what I was doing there. Well, I am a member of the Peer Facilitators' Circle which was a partner organization of this event. Our committee was assigned to registration and give-aways, but the duties are not limited to just that. Which is why one must be present to run errands and the like. I had the privilege to take the role as the message girl from delegate to chairman and to be in the technicals by projecting sections the people would be talking about. I so much tried to conceal the nervousness and cluelessness I felt during that moment. I had some idea of law-making and its process but the words they use and say still leave me in awe.
Even if my org-mate already explained what to do in front, I still became preoccupied with the thoughts of doing something wrong. It really is different when you're at the spot. Though, good thing, the rest of the crew was very supportive and thus the event was successfully done. There may have been some problems especially technical, but what projects doesn't go through any of these.

5 things I learned from PMC

1. The news may sound boring, but having at least an idea of what is happening in this world would be good.
2. If you want to state a mistake, provide a revision.
3. The past youth generations have done their big movement, when will our generation spark a uniting act?
4. As an organizer, be on time, be alert, and be ready.
5. Don't be afraid to speak up.

Philippine Mode Congress may seem intimidating, because it actually is. But, one shouldn't allow that become a reason for not attending these. If you are a law enthusiast, an advocate for change and/or a person who simply enjoys being active in society, join the next PMC and allow the inner spirit drive you to say your thoughts.