By AC Putong
The Silliman University (SU) Renaissance Youth Leaders Forum (RYLF) returned from a two-year hiatus last May 28, after suspending operations to refocus on its organizational mission.
RYLF President Maria Fiona Labucuas said they temporarily paused operations after members shifted their focus on accumulating organization points rather than fostering a “fun, vibrant, and deeply social space.”
“We paused to ensure that when RYLF returned, it would be an organization built on community, mentorship, and a shared joy for service, rather than just chasing points and ranks,” she said.
Labucuas also said the organization is working to improve internal programs and expand community involvement, including reviving the Mister Hibalag pageant.
Mister Hibalag is an advocacy-driven male pageant held annually during SU’s Founder’s Day celebrations, last held on August 29, 2024.
“Once the official approval process is complete, we look forward to making a formal announcement and bringing this beloved legacy back to the Silliman community,” Labucuas said.
Prior to its hiatus, the RYLF held the annual regional hip-hop dance competition Negros Best Dance Crew and the UNMUTE digital campaigns.
The RYLF is a socio-civic leadership development organization focused on advocacy-driven events and initiatives.
Sibugaynong Sillimanians regain regular status
The Sibugaynong Sillimanians regained regular status after three years of probation last school year.
It is the last remaining regional-based student organization in the university.
Student organizations on probation must undergo evaluation by the SUSG Committee on Student Organizations and participate in the annual Org Summit to regain registered or regular status.
Sibugaynong Sillimanians Secretary Josham Hamid said regaining regular status was the first step toward encouraging other regional organizations to return after being disbanded.
“It’s already an achievement for us that [the Zamboanga] del Norte [organization] is trying to revive as well. And they asked us ‘how did you revive Sibugaynong Sillimanians,’ [so] I feel like that was our goal coming into fruition,” Hamid said.
Sibugaynong Sillimanians Treasurer John Anthony Cejuela said that the organization seeks to spearhead the revival of other regional organizations through collaboration.
Sibugaynong Sillimanians President Francynne Blithe also said that they are currently accumulating organization points to participate in the upcoming 2026 Hibalag Booth festival and host community-centered initiatives.
Sibugaynong Sillimanians is a Zamboanga Sibugay-based organization that gathers students from the province for team-building and community outreach activities.
