Archdiocesan Youth Assembly 2026

The Archdiocesan Youth Assembly was successfully held on February 21, 2026, at the Regional Major Seminary (ReMaSe) Gymnasium, gathering youth leaders of the local Church for reflection, dialogue, and prayer. The event sought to renew their commitment to joyful, Christ-centered service marked by deeper faith, stronger unity, and a clearer sense of purpose.

Parish Youth Apostolate Core Groups from 34 our of 43 parishes across the Archdiocese of Davao participated, with a total of 295 participants in attendance, an encouraging sign of their shared mission and dedication to serving the young Church.

One of the central highlights of the gathering was the Holy Mass, which grounded the entire assembly in prayer and worship. The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Rev. Fr. Evan Esmade, a member of the Commission on Youth, who emphasized the spiritual foundation of youth ministry and the importance of Christ-centered service in all apostolic works.

The program also provided space for communal discernment and collaboration. A key feature was the Sub-Group Sessions, where DAYCA Ministry Heads met in smaller groups with fellow parish youth Ministry Heads. These sessions encouraged focused dialogue, the sharing of experiences and best practices, and stronger coordination among parish youth ministries.

The event also holds special significance as the first Archdiocesan activity of the Davao Archdiocesan Youth Coordinating Apostolate (DAYCA) for the year 2026, marking a hopeful and strong beginning for the youth apostolate’s programs and initiatives. The event was planned and carried out in collaboration with the DAYCA Core Group, under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Junel Bustamante, DAYCA Director, and Ramel Pamplona, Youth Coordinator. Their leadership and shared vision set the tone for a united, purposeful, and mission-driven year ahead.

This Archdiocesan Youth Assembly stands as a meaningful and inspiring start for 2026, strengthening the bonds among youth ministers and empowering them to continue building a joyful, faithful, and Christ-centered youth community in the Archdiocese of Davao. (Quennie Luz Hamto)