Insider Spotlight
Northern Mindanao continues to record some of the country’s highest adolescent pregnancy rates. Many young people still lack trusted adults or safe environments to ask questions about their bodies, relationships, or mental health.
These hubs fill that gap. By offering confidential, judgment-free support, they give teens the tools and confidence to make informed choices — decisions that can shape their education, future opportunities, and overall well-being.
Driving the news
The new centers — at Ozamiz City Central School, San Antonio National High School, Jose Lim Ho National High School, Tabid National High School, and Labinay National High School — bring the number of BRAVE-supported hubs in the city to 10.
All five passed their Level 1 assessment earlier this month and were accredited during the unified launch.
Zoom in
Fueled by global music icon Olivia Rodrigo’s Fund for Good, the BRAVE Project has grown from a philanthropic commitment into a youth empowerment movement.
Its approach integrates reproductive health education, mental wellness support, and climate awareness, acknowledging that teens face interconnected challenges that require holistic solutions.
Inside the teen hubs
Each center provides confidential counseling, youth-friendly health information, and support from trained teachers, guidance counselors, and peer educators.
With the help of ASSIST Asia, schools also use the Master of Disaster game, making climate learning interactive while teaching teamwork, empathy, and problem solving.
Voices on the ground
“Before BRAVE, I did not know where to ask questions without feeling embarrassed. Now we have a place where we can talk openly,” said Grade 9 student Jireh R. Cervantes.
“These teen centers reflect our hope to give learners a place where they feel welcome, understood, and supported,” said Arlene Via of DepEd Ozamiz City Division.
“This work is possible because our partners believe that young people deserve safe spaces and honest conversations,” added Dr. Ingrid R. Magnata of Jhpiego Philippines.
The bigger picture
Support from the Department of Health, local governments, and regional partners strengthens the network of care for young people. The result: healthier, more confident learners who can pursue their goals with clarity and courage.
What’s next
As BRAVE expands, the mission remains firm — help the youth become aware, engaged, and empowered.
In Ozamiz, these new hubs show what happens when a community invests in its young people: their voices grow louder, their futures grow brighter, and hope becomes something they can walk into. — Princess Daisy C. Ominga | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
