A powerful photo exhibit, Sulyap: Katotohanan sa Mata ng Kabataan, was staged on March 14 at the NCCC Mall, showcasing realities faced by young Palaweños – including early pregnancy, child labor, poverty, and mental health struggles.
Organized by Roots of Health in collaboration with Photovoices International, JCI Puerto Princesa Oil, and the Puerto Princesa City Youth Development Office, the one-day event featured the work of 13 youth advocates who used photography to tell narratives of hardship and resilience. The visual storytellers aimed to spark conversation and action on the systemic issues affecting young people in the province.
“This project has given young advocates the opportunity to critically examine the challenges they witness and face and push for solutions,” said Aika Pagusara, Roots of Health Youth Advocacy Manager. “The stories do not just reflect young people’s struggles but encourage the community to do more.”
Among the featured stories was of Joy, a mental health advocate who turned personal grief into purpose following the tragic loss of her brother to suicide. “Losing my brother left a hole in my heart that will never truly heal, but it also made me more determined to help others,” she shared.
Devorah, who experienced teen pregnancy, also shared her story. “Anuman ang ating pinagdaanan, hindi ito dapat maging hadlang upang ipagpatuloy ang ating mga pangarap (No matter what we have been through, it should not stop us from pursuing our dreams),” she said, inspiring others to rise above challenges and pursue a brighter future.
The exhibit was the result of months of work through the Photovoices International process which empowers young people to use photography and storytelling as advocacy tools.
“Photovoices starts from the belief that young people are experts in their own lives,” said Amy Cardamone of Photovoices International. “Through a participatory learning process, they identify issues that matter to them, build critical thinking skills, learn photography and storytelling, and advocate for change.”
Roots of Health, which has long championed youth-centered reproductive health services in Palawan, sees this exhibit as a testament to the power of young voices. “Our youth advocates are stepping up not only for reproductive health but also for intersecting issues that shape their lives,” Pagusara added.
The event drew support from local leaders, educators, and youth who praised the courage and insight of the young photographers.
