THE DEPARTMENT of Labor and Employment joined the 49th National Advisory Council Meeting to discuss promoting youth empowerment.

The meeting was conducted in accordance with the Youth in Nation-Building Act of 1995, which mandates that the council convene every three months to provide guidance and recommendations to the National Youth Commission (NYC) on critical youth issues.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma and Labor Assistant Secretary Paul Vincent Añover joined other government officials during the meeting.

Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara expressed his gratitude to the NAC member representatives and called the meeting to order.

One of the highlights of the event was the signing of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 11913.

The IRR outlines the guidelines for the observance of National Youth Day every August 12, including various youth empowerment programs and activities.

NYC Chairperson Jeff Ortega emphasized the importance of collaborating with key stakeholders through dialogues and meetings.

“This successful conduct of the NAC meeting served as a platform for us to align our efforts and ensure that the needs and aspirations of the Filipino youth are addressed effectively,” Ortega said.