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Nearly 2,000 young leaders nationwide of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Philippines, a leading global network of young active citizens, gathered here at Garden Orchid Hotel for a four-day national convention.

Hosted by the local chapter, Zamboanga Jaycess Inc. spearheaded by incoming national president JCI Sen. Ivan Randolph Ruste and JCI Sen. Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe, National Convention Director.

Dalipe said they have taken all the steps to ensure the safety and security of each of the members of the chapter and made all the preparations to guarantee a NATCON experience worth coming to Zamboanga City for.

The JCI's 4th Regular National Board Meeting, Search for Miss JCI - Philippines, City Tour of the JCI members and the launching of Liter of Light at a poor community in Barangay Tetuan will highlight this year's national convention.

In a press conference, Dalipe told local reporters it took about 10 years for the JCI local Zamboanga chapter to host the convention.

"We're very proud in this national convention, the incoming national president is from here (local chapter Zamboanga Jaycess Inc.), JCI Sen. Ivan Randolph Ruste," the former vice mayor said.

"We consider this as NATCON WEEK and Zamboanga Hermosa Festival altogether rolled into one for an unforgettable and exhilarating week," Dalipe added.

JCI Sen. Bernard Faustino Dy, 2011 National President, admitted that preparation for the holding of the national convention here was not so easy, "but with diligence and perseverance of our national convention director, they have executed it."

"We did not expect that many will participate...even with the storm that crippled in the country especially in Luzon still many came here to show their dedication to the organization and the JCI," Dy told reporters.

He also appealed to the local media to disseminate information to the non-JCI that their organization is receiving young people who want to help or contribute to their community.

JCI is the only worldwide non-political and non-sectarian youth service organization. It is an international community of citizens between the ages of 18 to 40 with the aim and purpose of creating positive changes in the world.

The organization believes that these changes must result from one taking, "collective action to improve themselves and the world around them." -

By Hader Glang