MANILA, Philippines – From youth advocates of breastfeeding to theater productions to inspire victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda, the recipients of this year’s Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) awards are described as nothing short of impressive.

On Tuesday, February 24, President Benigno Aquino III led the awarding ceremony, and thanked the awardees for their “dedication and work to continue [their] significant advocacies.”

This year’s awardees are:

• Sa Phi Lambda Delta Sorority for promoting breastfeeding and infant health through its Milk Matters program
• Kanlungan Pilipinas Movement, for educating residents in far-flung areas how to use a solar power system
• Rescue Assistance Peacekeeping Intelligence Detail (RAPID) and Cauayan City National High School – Red Cross Youth and Junior Rescue Team, for educating children on how to help in time of disasters
• Katipunan ng mga Kabataang Santiagueňo for promoting livelihood by encouraging the transformation of agricultural waste to charcoal
• ACCESS-PYLP Alumni Association, for providing livelihood skills for youth combatants in Basilan, Sulu and Zamboanga
• Move This World-Pilipinas, for tackling bullying in schools
• Youth for Environment in School Organization, for its Mangrove Reforestation Program
• Indigenous Youth Servant Leaders Association of the Philippines for promoting the welfare of indigenous people in Isabela
• University of San Agustin Little Theater for its theater production series to inspire victims of Typhoon Yolanda

The President encouraged the youth to continue their efforts in helping solve the nation’s problems and fighting for reforms, adding the faster they act, the quicker the state of the Philippines will improve.

“You will be in this world longer than us older people. If negativity and selfishness rule, you will have to suffer longer because of the miseries these will bear. But if we do what’s right, you will be able to enjoy the benefits longer,” he said.

The President also vowed to continue supporting the youth through the government’s Conditional Cash Transfer Program which aims to send more poor kids to school, and  Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) scholarships which aim to give the youth livelihood opportunities through skills and training.

Since 1992, the TAYO Awards Foundation has recognized youth organizations that have worked to improve their communities through innovative and valuable projects. The groups are composed of at least 15 members, most of whom are between 15-30 years old.

Winners receive a commissioned trophy, and a grant of P50,000 ($1128)* to fund new projects or continue their advocacies. – Rappler.com

*$1 = P44.32