IYCW ASPAC

𝐘𝐂𝐖 𝐏𝐇𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐎𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐍𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐬

The Young Christian Workers (YCW) Philippines strongly expresses its serious concern and condemnation over the dismissal of our Comrade Nonito Morales, the current President of the Sakamoto International Packaging Corporation Union.
Amid this situation, it cannot be denied that harassment, union busting, and other forms of repression against workers who defend their rights continue to persist. Such actions clearly violate the right to organize and to act freely—fundamental rights that must be respected and protected.
The case of Nonito is not merely an individual issue. It reflects the broader condition of the working class, which continues to face job insecurity, intimidation, and injustice. Instead of recognizing the important role of unions in promoting sound labor relations, they are often subjected to threats and repression.

As a movement that upholds the dignity and rights of workers, YCW Philippines firmly believes that every worker has the right to speak out, organize, and fight for the welfare of others without fear of retaliation or unjust treatment.
We call on the company’s management to review its decision and ensure that justice and due process are afforded to Nonito. We also urge the concerned government agencies to immediately investigate this incident and guarantee the protection of workers’ rights.

In times like these, unity and firm resolve are more necessary than ever. We will continue to struggle alongside the working class for justice, recognition of rights, and the promotion of genuine dignity in labor.

𝗦𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗴𝗴𝗹𝗲. 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲. 𝗗𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀’ 𝗥𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀.

YCW PHILIPINES OFFICIAL STATEMENT On the Dismissal of Nonito Morales The Young Christian Workers (YCW) Philippines strongly expresses its serious concern and condemnation over the dismissal of our Comrade Nonito Morales, the current President of the Sakamoto International Packaging Corporation Union.Amid this situation, it cannot be denied that harassment, union bust...

𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧, 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬: 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐄𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲

Women Rise Together in Community Empowerment Activity On March 29, 2026, a group of young women and young mothers gathered in Barangay 6, Mercedes, Camarines Norte for a meaningful Women’s Empowerment and Gender Equality activity organized by the Philippine Young Christian Workers (PYCW). The event brought together 25 participants with a shared goal of strengthening awareness, dignity, and unity among women in the community.

Through open discussions, participants shared real-life challenges they face—such as financial struggles due to insufficient family income, difficulties in raising children, and experiences of bullying that affect confidence and self-worth. These realities highlighted the need for stronger support systems and equal opportunities for women. The activity guided participants to reflect on these situations and recognize that such conditions are unjust and do not uphold the dignity of women. Emphasis was given to the belief that every person has inherent worth and deserves respect and equality.

As a response, the program included sessions on women’s empowerment and gender equality, along with a livelihood training on making shanghai, providing practical skills that could help augment family income. The activity concluded with a sense of hope and unity, showing that when women come together, they can build confidence, support one another, and take action toward a more just an

𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐞 :

United Women, Empowered Futures: Advancing Gender Equality in the Community Women Rise Together in Community Empowerment Activity On March 29, 2026, a group of young women and young mothers gathered in Barangay 6, M

𝗩𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴: 𝗬𝗖𝗪 𝗞𝗚𝗙 (𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗮) 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺

Kolar Gold Fields, India | March 8, 2026 - YCW KGF is delighted to share the successful organization of a Women’s Day celebration combined with a one-day orientation program for new members. This event served as an important moment to strengthen unity while introducing the organization’s values and mission to the participants.

During the session, various important topics were discussed, particularly the realities and challenges faced by women in today’s world. The discussion not only broadened perspectives but also aimed to raise awareness and encourage active participation from all attendees. In particular, the program emphasized the importance of understanding and advocating for women’s rights, while strengthening awareness of the real-life situations women face in their daily lives. The interactive atmosphere reflected the high enthusiasm of members in sharing their experiences and perspectives.

The program was also supported by several key contributors who played an important role in its success. Prashanth Raj and Prem Kumar from the National Extension Team provided guidance and support in implementing the program. Sr. Hema attended as the chief guest, bringing inspiration and deeper meaning to the event.

The success of the event was made possible through the hard work of the logistics team—Linus, Manoj, Mugilan, and Sunil—who ensured that all activities ran smoothly. The event also recognized the valuable contributions of former women leaders of KGF—Cythia, Malar, Vinolia, and Jacilyn—who have laid a strong foundation for the organization’s growth.

As a positive outcome of the program, YCW KGF officially formed the KGF YCW Women’s Group. This group is expected to serve as a platform for women to support one another, share experiences, and grow together. In addition, a WhatsApp group has been created to maintain communication and strengthen coordination among members.

Through this initiative, YCW KGF hopes to continue growing into a stronger, more united community that is capable of making a meaningful impact on society. The spirit of togetherness built during this event is expected to serve as a foundation for various positive activities in the future.

𝐘𝐂𝐖 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐏𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐤 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞

Last March 20, 2026, various faith-based and civic organizations gathered at Plaza Sta. Isabel in Intramuros, Manila on a Friday for the Penitential Walk for Life 2026, a Lenten religious activity featuring a Via Crucis procession and a Eucharistic celebration at the Manila Cathedral. Among those who actively participated was the Young Christian Workers of the Philippines, joining hundreds of individuals in this meaningful event dedicated to prayer, reflection, and the defense of life.

The Penitential Walk for Life is an annual gathering that calls on participants to walk in solidarity, offering prayers and sacrifices for the protection and dignity of every human life. This year’s walk was marked by a strong sense of community, as people from different sectors—youth groups, religious communities, and partner organizations—walked side by side with a shared purpose.
Philippine YCW members showed their unwavering dedication by participating wholeheartedly in the walk. Carrying banners and symbols of faith, they joined others in praying the rosary, singing hymns, and reflecting on the value of life from conception to natural death. Their presence highlighted the important role of young people in advocating for life and promoting social awareness grounded in faith.

The event also served as a moment of repentance and renewal. Participants were invited to reflect on societal challenges that threaten the sanctity of life and to commit themselves to becoming instruments of change in their communities. Through this collective act of faith, the walk became not only a physical journey but also a spiritual one.

By joining forces with other organizations, YCW Philippines demonstrated the power of collaboration in addressing moral and social issues. The Penitential Walk for Life 2026 was a reminder that through unity, prayer, and action, communities can stand firm in their mission to uphold and protect life.

As the event concluded with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at the Manila Cathedral, participants left with renewed hope and a deeper sense of responsibility to continue advocating for life in their daily lives. The journey may have ended, but the mission continues.

YCW Philippines Joins Penitential Walk for Life to Defend Sanctity of Life Last March 20, 2026, various faith-based and civic organizations gathered at Plaza Sta. Isabel in Intramuros, Manila on a Friday for the Penitential Walk for Life 2026, a Lenten religious activity featuring a Via Crucis procession and a Eucharistic celebration at the Manila Cathedral. Among those wh...

𝐀𝐬𝐢𝐚-𝐏𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐥

Manila, Philippines —On March 16, 2026 Leaders from national youth movements across the Asia-Pacific region convened virtually to begin preparations for the upcoming International Council in the Philippines. The initial session placed strong emphasis on making the realities of young people more visible, both within their local communities and on the global stage.

Through diverse platforms and creative initiatives, participants underscored the importance of amplifying youth voices and ensuring that their demands are not only heard but acted upon. The meeting reflected a spirit of solidarity, with leaders reaffirming their shared commitment to empowering young people across the region.

Acknowledging that youth challenges are interconnected across borders, national movement leaders agreed that collective strategies are essential to address them effectively. Looking ahead to the International Council, leaders committed to continuing discussions in a second session next month, which will focus on concrete actions to be undertaken by national movements in the Asia-Pacific.

https://iycw-aspac.org/asiapacific-youth-leaders-unite-in-preparations-for-international-council-2026

𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐁𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐉𝐎𝐂 𝐉𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐘𝐂𝐖 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬

The spirit of solidarity is alive and burning bright! On March 1, 2026 young workers from JOC Japan and YCW Philippines gathered online with one shared mission: to prepare for a powerful exchange of realities and actions set to take place this May 2026 in Iloilo City.
More than just a preparatory meeting, this gathering of national leaders was a reaffirmation of what it means to be young, organized, and committed to transforming society. Rooted in the YCW method of See–Judge–Act, both movements came together not only to plan logistics, but to deepen their common understanding of the struggles and hopes of young workers in Japan and the Philippines

𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬, 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲

JOC Japan presented a comprehensive report from their recent National Youth Meeting, highlighting the pressing issues faced by young people in Japan today — precarious work, social isolation, and the challenges of organizing in changing workplaces. They also expressed their strong expectations for the upcoming exchange: to witness firsthand the realities of Filipino young workers and to learn from grassroots actions that bring about concrete change.
In response, YCW Philippines enthusiastically shared the objectives and dynamics of the Iloilo exchange program. Grounded in immersion and direct engagement with base groups, the program is designed to allow participants to see the real conditions of young workers, judge these realities in light of faith and social analysis, and act together in solidarity.

𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐞 :

Young Workers in Action:Strengthening International Solidarity Between JOC Japan and YCW Philippines The spirit of solidarity is alive and burning bright! On March 1, 2026 young workers from JOC Japan and YCW Philippines gathered online with one shared mission: to prepare for a powerful exchange of realities and actions set to take place this May 2026 in Iloilo City.More than just a preparatory mee...

𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡: 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐬𝐢𝐚-𝐏𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜

(Catholic Social Forum on UN Sustainable Development Goals and Catholic Social Teaching; Inspired by Dilexi Te)

Last February 27, 2026, various Catholic movements in the Asia-Pacific—such as the International Young Christian Workers (IYCW), International Movement of Catholic Students (IMCS), International Young Catholic Students, and Pax Romana—came together to organize an online forum and dialogue on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Catholic Social Teaching in light of Dilexit Te.

In a time marked by deep social inequalities, environmental crises, and rapid technological change, Catholic movements and civil society organizations in the Asia-Pacific are being called to renew their commitment to justice, solidarity, and love for the poor. The keynote address of Jojo Fung, S.J., professor at the Loyola School of Theology, provided a profound reflection on Dilexit Te, the Apostolic Exhortation of Pope Leo XIV, and its relevance to the global call for sustainable development and the Church’s mission of promoting human dignity and integral development.

𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐞 :

Love for the Poor and the Earth: Challenges and Opportunities for Asia-Pacific (Catholic Social Forum on UN Sustainable Development Goals and Catholic Social Teaching; Inspired by Dilexi Te)

𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐠𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠. 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐚 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞. ❤️

Fundraising campaign for Baby Eliana's heart operation.
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Baby Eliana Kira Eliana Kira, is the daughter of former Philippines YCW fulltime worker, Jho Letada and her husband. Now ten months old, Eliana only weighs 4.6kg as a result of her medical condition, including a hole in the heart that is continuing to get larger. Her doctors have now informed the parents that surger...

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐳𝐮𝐞𝐥𝐚

On February 22, 2026, a successful formation activity was conducted in Valenzuela City at Villa Ana Takeda Resort, gathering base groups from Malanday, Vista Verde, and the Contractual Group. The activity aimed to strengthen the formation of both new and long-time members, creating a space for deeper reflection, learning, and unity among young workers.

A Basic Orientation Course (BOC) was facilitated by Jolbert Byron Rodenas to refresh and deepen the participants’ understanding of the identity, mission, and commitment of YCW. Through this session, members were reminded of their role in building organized and empowered young workers in their workplaces and communities.

One of the highlights of the activity was the “Tree of Life” workshop. Through this participatory analysis, young workers reflected on their dreams and the realities they face in their daily lives. This process helped them identify concrete situations in their workplaces and communities, which will serve as a foundation for collective analysis and future action planning within their respective groups. The workshop also strengthened their motivation and commitment to continue their journey in YCW through continuous education, formation, and organized action.
Another important objective of the gathering was to orient members about the upcoming International Council scheduled in October. Participants were informed that Valenzuela will be one of the areas for exchange activities. John Brian Geronimo, ASPAC Coordinator, shared key preparations, including fundraising initiatives and the cultural performances planned for the public opening. This encouraged members to begin organizing, planning, and actively participating in the preparations.

The activity formally opened with inspiring remarks from Christine, President of YCW Philippines. She shared the results of the recent National Council, including the newly elected leaders and the formation of the new National Team from the council held last October. She also highlighted the ongoing support for organizing young workers in two Industrial Packaging Companies in Caloocan, where efforts continue to build a strong and democratic union. In turn, these factory workers have been actively supporting formation and organizing efforts within their workplace.

The whole-day activity was carried out smoothly and in a joyful and participative atmosphere. Participants actively engaged in discussions, shared experiences, and strengthened their sense of unity and solidarity. More than a space for learning and planning, the gathering became a celebration of renewed commitment and collective hope among the young workers of Valenzuela.

𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐞 :

Strengthening Formation and Solidarity among Young Workers in Valenzuela On February 22, 2026, a successful formation activity was conducted in Valenzuela City at Villa Ana Takeda Resort, gathering base groups from Malanday, Vista Verde, and the Contractual Group. The activity aimed to strengthen the formation of both new and long-time members, creating a space for deepe...

𝐀 𝐅𝐫𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬’ 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲

A meaningful and fruitful orientation on Basic Labor Rights and the Principles of Freedom of Association was successfully conducted on February 17, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM under the leadership of the Federation of Free Workers. The activity was held at the FFW Office along Taft Avenue in Malate, Manila, gathering workers and representatives from various sectors in a spirit of solidarity and collective learning.
The orientation was attended by union officers and members from three industrial packaging factories organized by the Young Christian Workers, workers from Lazada, Legal Management interns, FFW staff, and members of the YCW National Team Secretariat. The diversity of participants created a rich space for dialogue and shared experiences.

Key topics included Freedom of Association, basic labor rights, the five core labor standards based on the principles of the International Labour Organization, and the current situation of Freedom of Association in the Philippines. These discussions aimed to deepen workers’ awareness and understanding of their rights as protected and guaranteed by the Constitution of the Philippines, the Labor Code of the Philippines, and international labor standards.

Paralegals, trainers, and organizers from FFW generously shared their knowledge, experiences, and practical guidance in organizing and defending workers’ rights. The activity also highlighted the concrete steps in building strong, democratic, and independent unions in workplaces.

An open forum allowed workers to actively share their current struggles and challenges. Participants discussed their work conditions, personal experiences, organizational concerns, and issues with company management. The exchange of insights and testimonies throughout the day was both dynamic and inspiring.
By the end of the orientation, participants expressed a renewed commitment to unity and collective action. Their confidence in asserting their rights was strengthened, and their sense of solidarity deepened. Many shared their gratitude for the knowledge and inspiration they gained—proving that continuous education, organizing, and unity remain essential in advancing workers’ rights, dignity, and social justice.

A Fruitful Orientation for Workers Unity A meaningful and fruitful orientation on Basic Labor Rights and the Principles of Freedom of Association was successfully conducted on February 17, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM under the leadership of the Federation of Free Workers. The activity was held at the FFW Office along Taft Avenue in Malat...