Aiza Seguerra outlines priorities as National Youth Commission head

TACLOBAN CITY, Aug. 16 (PNA) -- The newly appointed chairperson of the National Youth Commission, singer-actress Aiza Seguerra, has presented six priorities as head of the policy-making coordinating body of all youth-related programs.

Seguerra said that among the thrusts of NYC during her term are gender sensitivity and awareness, prevention of spread of the human immuno deficiency virus (HIV), mental health, employment of young LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) community members, stopping harassment of the youth, and empowerment.

The singer said that no region will be left out in these advocacies.

"Since our President is pushing for federalism, it will also be my priority, making sure that no region will be left out when it comes to projects for the youth," she said.

Seguerra acknowledged that the previous administration tend to overlook other regions and focus most of youth-related projects in Manila.

The NYC chair is planning to visit all regions in the country to find out the problems confronting the youth at present.

“The real data will never be presented to you, it is best to go the ground and see for yourself the real deal,” the singer said.

In Eastern Visayas, Seguerra vowed to work with other national government agencies to address the youth-related concerns after super typhoon Yolanda struck in 2013.

“What is good with NYC is we can always partner with other government agencies, but our thrust is to empower the youth so they can stand by their own. I don’t want them to rely so much from the government.”

Seguerra was the guest of honor of the recently concluded Pink Ink Training: Empowering Professional Media Practioners to deal LGBT Human Rights Issues on Aug. 14 in Cebu City. (PNA)

LAP/SQM/LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA/EGR