The city’s Task Force Davao (TFD) hosted its first Muslim Youth Congress on Tuesday, bringing together about 80 young Muslim leaders to foster empowerment and safeguard the city’s future generation.

TFD commander Col. Darren Comia said the congress aimed to prevent radicalization and strengthen the involvement of Muslim youth in Davao City’s peace, security, and development initiatives.

“Our objective is to protect the future generation of Davao City, ensuring they avoid radicalization and recruitment by local terrorist and other threat groups,” Comia said in an interview.

He noted that the event equipped participants with essential skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication, enabling them to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

“We conducted this to guide the Muslim youth representing the six tribes in the city,” he added.

Participant Izdihar Mangelen said the summit provided a platform to engage in policymaking and advance peace and security in Davao City and Mindanao.

“This serves as a venue for us to unite, share insights, and contribute ideas for the betterment of Davao City and Mindanao as a whole,” Mangelen said.

Another participant, Rana Mahmod, thanked the city government for initiating the program.

“I am grateful for this opportunity and for fostering a better Muslim community here in Davao City,” she said. (PNA)