LEGAZPI CITY, ALBAY (PIA) -- Some 200 officers and members of various youth organizations in Legazpi City pledged their commitment and support to become partners in empowering and reaching out to  out-of-school youths (OSYs) in the city.

In her message during the oath-taking ceremony, Legazpi City Mayor Carmen Geraldine Rosal thanked their partners for their continuous support  to the youth programs of the city government.

She further urged the OSYs in the city to never lose hope as the city government will always support their endeavors towards a better future.

City Youth Development (CYD) Officer Darlito Perez Jr reminded the organizations of their vital role in extending assistance to the OSYs.

He also encouraged them to visit their CYD Office at the 3rd floor of the City Hall to register so they will become eligible for future projects and programs, including financial assistance distributions and activities such as the first-ever OSY Sports Fest in Legazpi City.

Youth Network Executive Council (YNEC) Chairperson Ella Jean Bancosta, a former OSY beneficiary of the Opportunity 2.0 partnership program of the USAID, expressed her optimism for the collaborative effort of the youth organizations to encourage OSYs in pursuing similar endeavors, noting that it help them to find their place in the society.

Kim Adam Arimado, Opportunity 2.0 youth development coordinator for Legazpi City said former OSY beneficiaries who were given opportunities for education, employment and entrepreneurship are part of these organizations and will serve as lead groups to identify OSYs in various barangays in the city.

Arimado said capacitated OSY beneficiaries will also serve as guide and mentors to the identified OSYs to help them in choosing the opportunity that will uplift their lives towards a better and productive future. (With report from Ann Jubelle De Vera, BU intern-PIA5/Albay)