The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) concluded the nationwide “You Have The Power” campus caravan on Monday, recognizing outstanding youth for their talents, creativity, and achievements.
The award ceremony, held at Citadines Bay City Manila, Pasay City, celebrated young achievers from various educational institutions who participated in the government-led caravan.
The event, titled “You Have The Power: Unleash Your Inner Hero,” honored students for their contributions to raising awareness about energy efficiency and conservation, encouraging youth to become advocates for sustainable practices in their communities.
“These winners are shining examples of what can happen when we harness our talents. They remind us that each of us has a unique contribution to make,” Energy Undersecretary Felix William Fuentebella said in his keynote message during the event.
“Creativity is not just about art or music. It’s about thinking outside the box, developing new ideas, and collaborating with others. When we come together, pooling our skills and perspectives, we become a force for change.”
DOE Director Patrick T. Aquino said the event underscores how creativity can drive progress.
When people harness their talents and collaborate, they become a united front for progress, he said, telling the audience, “Together, let us unleash our inner superheroes, recognizing that each of us has the power to contribute to a brighter, more sustainable future.”
PCO Assistant Secretary Patricia Kayle Martin emphasized the importance of using one’s power for meaningful change.
“Today is not just about awareness. It’s about igniting real action. The conversations we’ve had and the stories shared are only the beginning. They are the spark. The real change comes from what you do next,” said Martin.
PCO Director Faith De Guia said true energy sustainability means meeting people’s current energy needs without compromising the ability of future generations to do the same.
“When you speak up for cleaner energy, advocate for policies that prioritize sustainability, and lead by example, you aren’t just conserving energy. You’re building a legacy,” she said.
Comic strip winners included first placer Jhon Menard P. Pamonag (City College of San Jose Del Monte); Sheena P. Fiedacan (Batangas State University – The National Engineering University), 2nd place; Jan Daniella A. Belnas (Cagayan State University), 3rd place; and Francis Louis S. Rafisura – Liceo de Cagayan University), 4th place.
For animation, the winners were Bianca B. Suyo (Benilde Senior High School (DLS-CSB), 1st place; Rica Darell C. Espineda (Lyceum of the Philippines Laguna), 2nd place; Keisha Kristel B. Sales (De La Salle Lipa), 3rd place; and Kurt Nicolas S. Gaviola (City College of San Jose Del Monte), 4th place.
Short film winners were Shamira A. Espiritu (Laguna State Polytechnic University Siniloan Campus), 1st place; Jan Audrey C. Panaligan, Rodjen Jossh C. Pillado (Lirio M. Escaño National High School), 2nd place; Keith Andrei B. Manalang (Holy Cross College), 3rd place; and Wyna Ella L. Laxamana, Gabriel Josef E. Lacsa, Kelsie G. Salvador, Lein Angela H. Arciga (Pampanga High School), 4th place. | PND
