Don Bosco Philippines South Province

by Mayve Jane Dalisay of DB Mambucal

Anchored on the themes of holiness, hope, and servant leadership,the youth leaders and animators from the Negros District continue to respond generously to their call as leaders and servants of the young as they actively participated on the Leaders and Animators Formation held last February 21,2026 at Don Bosco Technical Institute -Victorias.

The day commenced with a Getting-to-Know-You activity where participants were asked to choose among four directions—north, south, east, and west. Each direction symbolized a particular question which enabled the participants to share commonalities and experiences letting them be engaged and interact with their fellow youth leaders coming from different DB settings.

The first session was discussed by Kuya Daryl, who introduced the participants to the life and witness of St. Carlo Acutis.He highlighted how St.Carlo, though an ordinary teenager who loved computers and technology, used his talents to serve God. Through St. Carlo’s example, the participants were reminded that holiness is possible even in the digital age, and that their online presence can become a powerful channel of evangelization.Afterwards the participants were grouped according to various digital platforms and were tasked to create their own Digital Mission Pledge.

The second session was facilitated by Fr. Vince Michael Sabal, SDB, who discussed the Jubilee Year of Hope. Through an interactive activity involving “appointments” with one another, participants reflected on their motivations for service, realizing that leadership is a calling from God rather than a pursuit of recognition.Fr. Vince also shared his personal journey from childhood to his vocation as a priest, showing how faith and dedication shape a life of service.

Ate Mayve led the final session, where she discussed the Attitudes, Skills, and Knowledge (A.S.K.) of a Salesian Youth Leader. She emphasized that true leadership is rooted in spirituality, compassion, responsibility, and service, and explained practical ways to live out these qualities in ministry. After the discussion, participants performed skits in groups, creatively showing how a Salesian Youth Leader applies these qualities in everyday life—serving others, guiding peers, and witnessing faith through actions. The skits not only deepened their understanding but also fostered creativity, teamwork, and joy.

The formation concluded with a Eucharistic Celebration, reminding participants that all leadership and service flow from Christ. LAF Negros 2025 was more than a training—it was an encounter with God, with one another, and with the mission entrusted to young leaders. The day strengthened community bonds, sparked new friendships, and renewed the youth’s sense of purpose. As participants return to their communities, they carry with them lessons, inspiration, and hope, ready to serve with humility, lead with compassion, and live as pilgrims of hope.