Bacolod City – The Negrosanon Young Leaders Institute Inc. (NYLI) held its 2026 General Assembly on January 24, 2026, at the Negros Women for Tomorrow (NWTF) Training Hall. The gathering brought together members and alumni to reflect on the institute’s achievements, strengthen shared goals, and formally elect a new Board of Trustees.
The assembly began with a review and approval of the minutes from the previous meeting, followed by the President’s report, which highlighted NYLI’s accomplishments in 2025. The institute’s programs continued to make a meaningful impact in youth empowerment, community leadership, social innovation, and climate resilience across Negros and beyond.
Programs Director Jomar Borromeo presented the annual program report, showcasing the reach and impact of NYLI’s initiatives. In 2025, the institute advanced two policies and ordinances, engaged 208 young leaders, and reached 23 cities and municipalities, positively affecting 5,057 lives. The report emphasized how NYLI’s holistic approach, combining mentorship, advocacy, and capacity-building, has strengthened youth participation in decision-making and contributed to community-led solutions.
The assembly also included the election of the Board of Trustees (BOT), welcoming new and re-elected leaders to guide NYLI’s strategic direction. The newly elected trustees are Teodoro Angelo Villanueva, Ray Buenafe, Joshua Villalobos, Mark Bryan Yaung, Josela Borromeo-Tumbagahan, Cyndie Tecson, and Maria Alexandra Geolingo.
Additionally, the assembly recognized Francis “Frankie” Maglaqui for his two years of volunteer service with NYLI through his exit report. His dedication as a Peace Corps volunteer in youth leadership and community empowerment in Negros was celebrated as a valuable contribution to the institute’s mission.
“With our new Board of Trustees and the continued commitment of our members, we hope to expand our programs, deepen our impact, and create spaces where children, young people, and communities can thrive,” said Kevin Gaitan, NYLI Executive Director.
NYLI is a youth-led civil society organization that empowers children, young people, and their communities through mentorship, advocacy, and innovative programs. By nurturing leadership, fostering social innovation, and addressing challenges such as climate change and social inequities, NYLI continues to champion a just, inclusive, and sustainable Negros and the Philippines.