JCI Surigao North•Articles by: Eric Libay

Author: Eric Libay

Passing the Torch, Building the Future

JCI Surigao North welcomes its new leaders while honoring a legacy of purpose-driven impact.

Passing the Torch, Strengthening the Legacy.
JCI Surigao North held its Annual General Membership Meeting (AGMM) last August 17, 2025 — a moment to reflect, elect, and look ahead.
2025 LO President Atty. Krystel Grace L. Calderon-Buniel, together with her dedicated Board of Directors, proudly shared their milestones and achievements — a testament to servant leadership, teamwork, and the spirit of creating lasting impact. Her journey reminds us that leadership is not only about achieving goals and points, but also about empowering others to #KeepGoingForward with purpose – leading with purpose.
As one chapter closes, another begins. JCI Surigao North’s whole membership warmly welcome 2026 LO President-elect Jemima S. Plaza and her newly elected Board of Directors, ready to carry the torch with fresh vision and determination. Together, they will make an impact and build better — for the members, the community, and the greater mission of JCI Surigao North.
Here’s to continuing the legacy of action, collaboration, and hope as we shape a better tomorrow.
WE ARE JCI SURIGAO NORTH. WE THE NORTH.
SOARING HIGHER FOR A BETTER HOUSE OF THE NORTH!

Shaping Leaders with Vision and Purpose

Through training sessions on foresight and purpose, JCI Surigao North members were inspired to lead with clarity and passion.

At the House of the North, the members believe that true leadership begins with vision and purpose.
August 17 2025, JCI Surigao North members had the privilege of learning through North’s Training Sessions from 2025 Vice President for Community Mariel P. Makinano through “Future Thinking and Strategic Foresight”, a session that opened their eyes to anticipating change and embracing innovation. It reminded them that the future belongs to those who prepare for it today.
The members were also inspired with another session by 2025 Vice President for Business Kenn Edgar A. Parojinog in “Leading with Purpose: Why We Do What We Do in JCI.” VP Kenn’s words grounded the members in the deeper “why” behind their actions — that every project, every program, every effort, and every step the members take in JCI is for a greater cause.
Together, JCI Surigao North’s members reminded to #KeepGoingForward, not just as leaders, but as individuals fueled by passion and service.

Celebrating Youth Leadership at the Suyog Awards 2025

JCI Surigao North joins the inaugural Suyog Awards to honor and empower Surigao’s young leaders.

JCI Surigao North was honored to take part in the inaugural Suyog Awards 2025 organized by the Local Youth Development Office of Surigao City.
2025 LO President Atty. Krystel Grace L. Calderon-Buniel presented the JCI Surigao North’s Choice Award – Surigao Youth Convergence. The ceremony was joined by fellow JCI Surigao chapters — JCI Surigao Wensie, led by 2025 LO President Maraya L. Lorente, and JCI Surigao Nickel, headed by 2025 LO President Carlson Jay E. Martinez — demonstrating unity and support for the youth of Surigao City. We also sincerely thank RVP Richmond Anthony Riain Alfonso for his unwavering support and encouragement toward our chapter’s endeavors.
JCI Surigao North remains steadfast in its mission to nurture future leaders, champion meaningful change, and create lasting impact in the community — living out the JCI Mission of providing development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change.

Empowering Young Voices in Santa Monica

Sapao Debate 2025 empowered Santa Monica youth with confidence, leadership, and critical thinking skills.

The Sapao Debate Training and Competition 2025 marked a milestone for youth development in the Municipality of Santa Monica, Siargao, Surigao del Norte. Designed to strengthen the skills of young leaders, the program aimed not just to train participants in debating techniques, but to cultivate critical thinking, reasoned argumentation, respectful discourse, and active citizenship—skills vital for their personal growth and for shaping the community’s future.
Facilitated by JCI Surigao North’s 2025 Local Skills and Development Director Raxiey G. Adolfo in partnership with the Local Government of Santa Monica, the training provided a safe space for the youth to express themselves, challenge ideas, and learn to back their positions with evidence and logic.
The impact goes beyond competition day—participants walk away more confident, articulate, and ready to take on leadership roles in their schools, organizations, and local initiatives. This effort reinforces the vision of Santa Monica as a community where young voices are not only heard but also empowered to make a difference.

Strengthening Innovation Partnerships in Surigao

JCI Surigao North and DOST-SNSU WAVES TBI join forces to empower local startups, foster inclusive development, and drive community growth.

JCI Surigao North took a proactive step toward fostering innovation and inclusive development in Surigao del Norte through a strategic meeting with the DOST-SNSU WAVES Technology Business Incubator on July 8, 2025, at Surigao City Hall.
Represented by its 2025 LO President Atty. Krystel Grace Calderon-Buniel, Vice President for Community Mariel Makinano, and Vice President for Business Kenn Edgar Parojinog, JCI Surigao North expressed its commitment to support local startups through mentorship, collaborative events, and expanded entrepreneurial networks. In turn, the DOST-SNSU WAVES TBI team, led by its Manager Dr. Stephinejane Musico, welcomed the initiatives and pledged to work hand-in-hand with JCI in advancing innovation-driven programs.
This synergy marks the beginning of a purposeful partnership aimed at co-creating impactful solutions for community and economic growth. A Memorandum of Understanding is set to be formalized by both parties to align future initiatives and empower Surigaonons to bring their entrepreneurial visions to life.

Pres. Krystel Joins 3rd Regional Council Meeting in Iligan City

Together with NorthMin leaders, JCI Surigao North looks ahead to a strong and impactful final quarter of 2025.

JCI Surigao North’s 2025 LO President Atty. Krystel Grace L. Calderon-Buniel, joined the 3rd Regional Council Meeting (RCM) in Iligan City on July 27, 2025. Led by JCI Philippines Northern Mindanao 2025 Regional Vice President David Emmanuel T. Piol, the meeting connected NorthMin local organizations, celebrated and reviewed 3rd-quarter achievements, and planned collaborations for a strong finish to the year.
Let’s make the final quarter our best yet!

JCI Surigao North Presents Progress Report at 3rd Area 5 Council Meeting

Pres. Krystel Grace Calderon-Buniel highlights growth, solutions, and strategic progress in advancing national programs and community capacity.

JCI Surigao North led by the 2025 LO President Atty. Krystel Grace L. Calderon-Buniel delivered a comprehensive report at the 3rd Area 5 Council Meeting (ACM) in Iligan City, detailing the significant progress made on LO national programs. Her presentation highlighted successful training initiatives, resulting in improved skills and capacity within the community. Key areas of improvement were identified, showcasing a commitment to continuous growth.
While challenges were acknowledged, Pres. Krystel Grace also outlined the strategic actions taken to address them and the best practices implemented to ensure the long-term success of these vital programs. The report demonstrated a clear understanding of both the opportunities and obstacles, fostering confidence in the future of these initiatives.

JCI Surigao North Celebrates with Rotary Club of Surigao City at 51st Induction Ceremony

Honoring new leadership and shared dedication to service, as we look forward to continued collaboration for a better Surigao City.

JCI Surigao North, led by 2025 LO President Atty. Krystel Grace L. Calderon-Buniel, proudly attended the Rotary Club of Surigao City’s 51st Turnover and Induction Ceremony at Philippine Gateway Hotel, Surigao City, celebrating the installation of their new officers, led by 2025 President Ed Jose A. Abarca PHF, and extending congratulations on their well-deserved recognition of the 2024 President RTN Alfonsito G. Amoncio PHF.
We commend their continued dedication to community service and look forward to future collaborations in strengthening our shared commitment to improving the lives of the people of Surigao City.

JCI Surigao North Earns 100 PEA Points and PEA Gavel Award 2025

A triumph of teamwork, leadership, and purpose-driven service—this milestone reflects the House of the North’s unwavering commitment to building better communities.

JCI Surigao North’s remarkable achievement of 100 JCI Performance Efficiency Award (PEA) points and the prestigious PEA Gavel Award, led by 2025 LO President Atty. Krystel Grace L. Calderon-Buniel, is a resounding testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence and impactful community service.
This significant milestone, earned during the 2025 Mid-Year Academy, showcases the dedication and collaborative spirit of every member, Board of Directors, and partners who contributed their precious time, talent, and passion to the chapter’s numerous projects and initiatives. As the #HouseOfTheNorth, we are incredibly proud of this accomplishment and the positive change it represents.
This inspiring success serves as a powerful motivator for JCI Surigao North and all chapters within our community. The dedication and hard work demonstrated exemplify the spirit of JCI Philippines’ mission to #BuildBetter communities. Their achievement underscores the importance of purpose-driven leadership and meaningful community engagement. We celebrate this victory and are inspired to #KeepGoingForward, continuing our shared commitment to serve, empower, and inspire positive change in the lives of others.
The Gavel Award, presented by 2025 JCI World President Keisuke Shimoyamada and 2025 JCI Philippines National President Felix Venson Chua, acknowledges the collaborative efforts of JCI Surigao North’s members, Project Chairpersons, and the 2025 Board of Directors under Pres. Kring, resulting in exceptional leadership and program delivery and implementation.

Empowering Through Dialogue: Success of “Sama-Sama sa Pagkat-on”

JCI Surigao North’s two-day program united mothers, educators, and leaders to co-create inclusive learning for Sama Bajau youth.

JCI Surigao North’s “Sama-Sama sa Pagkat-on: Dialogue with Mothers and Orientation to Community-Based Tutors” program successfully concluded a two-day event, June 21-22, 2024 at The Annex Hotel Tavern, Surigao City, featuring a community dialogue and youth module design workshop. The program, which included sessions on understanding the needs of Sama Bajau children, co-designing learning spaces, and developing inclusive teaching modules, fostered collaboration between community leaders, parents, and educators, resulting in commitment signing and reflection. The event showcased JCI Surigao North’s dedication to community development and youth empowerment.
JCI Surigao North extends its sincere appreciation to all the collaborative partners. We look forward to continuing our partnership and working together to achieve even greater success in the future.
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