It’s official—Alfred Dicto, the visionary leader behind the Positive Youth Development Network (PYDN), will bid farewell on November 30, 2023. As the chief executive, he leaves behind an indelible mark on the Philippines’ most esteemed youth-led NGO. However, his departure prompts a crucial question that looms over the organization’s partners and stakeholders—who will be the torchbearer for PYDN?
Rumors are circulating that the leadership has been quietly evaluating five candidates to fill the esteemed role, all of whom have been integral to PYDN’s journey. Let’s delve into a brief introduction of these potential successors.
First up is Jeannie Anne Maguad, or Jean, who has been an integral part of PYDN since its inception four years ago. Jean, distinguished by her age and wisdom, is well-known in the development space as the Iron Lady who propelled PYDN to greater heights. It is evident that Jean and Alfred share a close relationship, given that both emerged from Ideas Positive Run 3, launched in 2012. While Alfred addressed diarrheal disease in Iloilo, Jeannie tackled parasitic infections in Baguio. Together, during their stewardship of Ideas Positive, they successfully transformed the program into the Philippines’ premier youth engagement initiative for health. Jeannie played a key role in extending Ideas Positive’s presence and influence to all regions of the country, from Batanes to Tawi-Tawi. Notably, Jean differs from Alfred in her conservative approach to spending, which could introduce a new dynamic to PYDN, known for its generous and flamboyant causes.
If Jean is Alfred’s close ally, we cannot disregard the influence of our second contender, John Carlo Borja, or Borj. According to anecdotes, Borj holds the favor of Alfred. Even in informal circles, Alfred consistently views Borj as his heir to the throne when the right time comes. Borj successfully led the National Vaccination Campaign during the peak of the vaccination scare. One of Borj’s advantages lies in his knowledge of government, having served as a Sangguniang Kabataan Chairman himself. There are also accounts suggesting that Alfred orchestrated Borj’s relocation from Iloilo to Manila to assess his versatility and grit. Currently, Borj is overseeing two of PYDN’s flagship programs.
Our third contender is the crowd favorite, Mr. Jerome Cuyos, who served as the longest-reigning President of the Ideas Positive Alumni Community. Cuyos, commonly known as “Pres,” built the alumni community from the ground up. He played a pivotal role in facilitating international exchanges for alumni to the United States and Europe. As a banker, he also served as PYDN’s financial advisor, which is why money has never been an issue within the organization. Known for his logical and critical thinking, Cuyos, a Certified Public Accountant, is now considered a moderate choice that will aid PYDN in maintaining its course.
The fourth contender is a surprise for us: Mr. Hadrian Aguilar from Leyte. There are pictures circulating online of the government employee, working in the Office of the Vice President, meeting Alfred in Manila. Rumors suggest that their discussion goes beyond personal matters, given that they spent 8 hours in coffee shops. Known for his expertise in knowledge management and development, it’s understandable if he is considered one of the top choices to lead PYDN across bridges that only Kuya Hadi knows.
And lastly, the power of PYDN is heavily dependent on its capability to communicate effectively. Now, we have our final contender, Ms. Judy Marie Santiago, who has served as Ideas Positive and PYDNS communication and brand director and partner for over 8 years. She is the bread and butter of PYDN’s communication strategies. It would provide a fresh perspective to have a communication expert lead the organization, especially in this era of confusion.
But why does it matter?
The youth development space is watching closely. PYDN is not just an organization; it is a manifestation of every young Filipino’s dream to be recognized, valued, trained, and appreciated. The leader must embody these values to the core. As the Executive Director, the chosen one will wield the power to effect tangible change, enjoying benefits and opportunities unique to PYDN’s mission.
The stage is set for a new chapter in PYDN’s journey, and the impact of this decision will resonate across countless youth leaders and their communities. The chosen leader will steer the ship into uncharted waters, holding the responsibility of safeguarding PYDN’s core values and driving it towards even greater heights.
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MUTYA_PH 