Mindanao leader urges ASEAN to address climate crisis, digital gap among youth

A government official from Mindanao urged the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to address the digital gap among the youth in Southeast Asia.

Sultan Kudarat Governor Pax Ali Mangudadatu made the call during the interface of ASEAN heads of states with youth leaders in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on Thursday.

Mangudadatu, who was introduced by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., said ASEAN leaders should prioritize closing the digital gap among the children, the youth, and members of the community amid the current global digitalization.

"We join ASEAN in ensuring that our youth will be productive and competitive in all levels and in different fields as we adjust to a post-pandemic world. We also continue to ensure that the new life and the new normal will be beneficial, progressive, and growing for everyone," Mangudadatu said.

Aside from that, he also called on the body to address the effects of the climate crisis, adding that the devastating effects of Severe Tropical Storm Paeng is a wake-up call for the southern Philippines.

"It is a major concern for everyone, but because of climate change, things have changed. Our region, which was once known to be typhoon free and safe from typhoons, has now become its latest victim," Mangudadatu said.

"It is a wake-up call for everyone to act immediately. This is a call for all of us to work together in addressing climate change as one of the biggest threats to our future and especially to the youth," he added.

Mangudadatu also mentioned that the Philippines hones young leaders who will later lead the government and the entire country.

The interface with the youth was among the events during the 40th and 41st ASEAN Summits and Related Summits.—LDF, GMA News