December 26, 2025

Education, Economic Empowerment, Governance, Active Citizenship, Environment

I-BAAY BRIEF DESCRIPTION & OBJECTIVES The Invigorate-Bridging Ambitions and Aspirations of Youth Organization (I-BAAY) is a community-based, youth-led initiative dedicated to promoting active youth participation and fostering individual growth within Baay, Bagulin, La Union. Officially founded on July 22, 2024, by the barangay’s young residents in collaboration with local officials, I-BAAY serves as a vital partner in supporting the programs and activities of the Sangguniang Kabataan. Recognizing the challenges faced by local youth due to the barangay’s remote location, which limits access to youth programs, I-BAAY identified a critical gap in engagement and opportunity. This distance has contributed to weak participation in existing initiatives, leaving many young people without the platforms necessary to develop their skills and talents. To address this, I-BAAY envisions a vibrant community where youth can unlock their full potential and contribute meaningfully to societal progress. The Organization is committed to bringing government and non-government opportunities closer to the community and organizing projects designed to nurture talents and skills among its young members. These talents, in turn, are shared with wider community to foster collective growth and more empowered barangay. The I-BAAY had successfully implemented four major activities. First, the “Let the Bottles Begin” project, an income-generating effort where members collected and sold recyclable materials, to raised funds for future events and instilled environmental awareness. Second, the anti-drug campaign reaching a wide online audience. Third, the Lantern-Making Contest showcased the creativity of youth, with their works displayed in the barangay hall as symbol of Christmas spirit. Lastly, the ongoing Guiding Greatness program unites youth through mentoring sessions in arts, music, chess, and other engaging activities. Looking ahead, I-BAAY aims to register with the National Youth Commission as an official member of the Youth Organization Registration Program (YORP), seeking to broaden opportunities and empower even more young people in the community.