More than 2,000 student leaders and youth advocates from across the country on Monday gathered in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental for an event where they can express their insights on pressing social issues and boost their leadership potential.

“Dito ninyo maipapahayag ang inyong mga saloobin tungkol sa mga isyung panlipunan, makapagpapresenta ng inyong mga proyekto, at makikilahok sa mga (Here’s where you can express your thoughts on social issues, present your projects, and take part in various) workshops, thematic sessions, and Project Pitching Exercises,” Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara said, referring to Learners’ Convergence Philippines (LearnCon PH) 2025, a flagship program of the department.

“Gamitin ninyo ang pagkakataong ito para magtanong, makinig, at magbahagi (Use this opportunity to ask questions, listen, and share your ideas),” he added.

A DepEd news release said LearnCon PH aims to promote leadership, civic engagement, and the value of service among learners. It also serves as the largest in-person engagement of learners and education stakeholders from all 18 regions.

The event also aligns with Angara’s five-point reform agenda that focuses on innovation, inclusion and learner empowerment, according to the DepEd.

Education Undersecretary for Operations Malcolm Garma said the weeklong LearnCon PH 2025 tackles key themes such as leadership and civic engagement, health and well-being, gender and social inclusion, climate action, entrepreneurship, culture, and peacebuilding.

The event highlights include the launch of the Landas Toolkit, a resource for career planning; the Learners’ Congress for policy-making and governance training; and the Project Pitching Sessions, where students present innovative solutions before a panel of experts.

“LearnCon is a safe space for ideas,” Garma said. “Huwag kayo matakot, huwag kayong mahiyang magtanong at magbahagi (Don’t be scared, don’t be shy to ask questions and share ideas).”

Carrying the theme “#GalingKabataan: Boses Mo, Bukas Natin,” LearnCon PH 2025 coincides with the National Career Expo (NCEx) Kick-Off for School Year 2025–2026, merging leadership development with career guidance and industry exposure.

The DepEd said a total of 2,061 learner-delegates representing all School Division Offices attended the event, including students from both formal and alternative learning systems, Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities, and learners with disabilities.

Other activities include thematic sessions on current national issues, a Youth Leaders Forum with government and private sector representatives, and a Learners’ Night celebrating youth creativity and collaboration. (PNA)