FOCOLARE MOVEMENT. File photo shows the 13 young people (standing in the back) of the Focolare Movement who are currently in Puerto Princesa City to learn various culture and traditions in a bid to encourage unity amongst the youth in the world despite differences in religious, cultural beliefs, and race. (Photo courtesy of PIO)
PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan -- A group of 13 young people from different countries on Monday visited the Capitol for a courtesy call as part of the 11th edition this year of GenFest, an international gathering of young people that promotes unity beyond all borders.
They came from as far as Brazil, Africa, Germany, and Mexico to connect with the Focolare Movement in Palawan.
Norma Valencia, an organizer of GenFest in an interview, said the Focolare Movement is a worldwide religious organization that encourages the ideals of unity and universal brotherhood regardless of cultural background, traditions, and race.
“They did not only visit to see government leadership, but to also look at what is happening in Palawan -- in the development, how far it has gone in different municipalities, and how it makes an impact on the lives of the people,” she said.
She said the visit will likewise see how the province can be promoted by the young people to their friends and families in their countries.
The youth group was welcomed at the Provincial Capitol by lawyer Joshua Bolusa, the provincial administrator; provincial tourism officer Maribel Buñi, and Ceasar Sammy Magbanua of the Office of Governor Jose Alvarez.
On July 4, the provincial government will be holding a cultural activity for the youth group dubbed “Barrio Fiesta” at the Victoriano J. Rodriguez Hall.
It will showcase various traditional and cultural presentations about Palawan where they could learn from.
They are also expected to plant trees, island hop tour the Honda Bay Islands, and attend cultural seminars.
The main program of the Genfest 2018 will be held at the World Trade Center, Metro Manila, on July 6-8.
Valencia said the international gathering hopes to inspire young people “to work together and embrace unity in diversity and to create a more empathetic world.” (PNA)
