𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐍𝐄𝐒 | 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐒𝐓𝐘𝐋𝐄 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐓𝐀𝐔, 𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐈 𝐄𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐬, 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡

For the first time in its history, the Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) played host to this year’s edition of Science and Technology Youth Leadership Encampment (STYLE), gathering young leaders, officials, faculty members, and staff from 15 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) across the Philippines from 23 to 25 March.

The encampment carried the theme “Building Smarter Communities: Youth Leadership in Responsible AI and Emerging Technologies” and marked a significant achievement for TAU, which took over hosting duties from last year’s organizer, the University of Northern Philippines (UNP).

In his message during the opening ceremony, TAU President Dr. Silverio Ramon DC. Salunson greeted the delegates before highlighting the role of youth in championing Science, Mathematics, and Technology, which he called the “engines of progress.”

“Today, more than ever, the world turns to the young, to you, to champion the fields of Science, Mathematics, and Technology. It is through your curiosity, your critical thinking, and your passion for innovation that we will cultivate a generation capable of solving the most pressing challenges of our time,” Dr. Salunson shared.

The program continued with a video message from Dr. Edwin F. Cadorna, UNP President and Chairperson of the Philippine Consortium for Science, Mathematics, and Technology (PCSMT), followed by the Statement of Purpose delivered by Dr. Joseph G. Taban, PCSMT Secretary.

Ms. Karen Y. Dañez, Tarlac’s Provincial Science and Technology Director, then delivered the keynote address and focused on the idea that a smart community is people-centric, where technology is used to solve real problems. “Behind every AI system are human decisions that define its impact. You (students) will shape how technology shapes society” Ms. Dañez added.

After the presentation of Mr. and Ms. PCSMT candidates, Mr. Aaron P. Villena, PCSMT National Student Chapter President, announced the activities, guidelines, and mechanics for the three-day event.

A total of 87 participants joined the encampment, according to the official delegation breakdown. Among the participating SUCs were Abra State Institute of Science and Technology, Batangas State University, Bulacan State University, Benguet State University, Cagayan State University, Central Luzon State University, Ifugao State University, Mountain Province State University, Pangasinan State University, Quirino State University, Sultan Kudarat State University, Tarlac State University, University of Rizal System, University of Northern Philippines, and Tarlac Agricultural University..

The program was packed with activities designed to develop leadership and technical skills among the youth. Day one featured the opening program. Day two comprises team-building activities, a seminar on the event’s theme, and simultaneous contests such as the Search for PCSMT Ambassadors, photo contest, and essay writing contest.

The encampment will conclude on Day three with the awarding of winners, impressions from participants, and the oath-taking of the incoming set of PCSMT student chapter officers.

Meanwhile, Dr. Milani C. Petero, PCSMT Coordinator for TAU, reiterated the Consortium’s guiding principles in her message to TAU’s Information Unit. “With TAU taking on a leadership role, the 2026 STYLE serves as a solid springboard for ongoing academic involvement among SUCs, where STEM education initiatives continue to drive innovation, strengthen research culture, and prepare learners for the demands of a rapidly evolving global landscape,” she underscored.

As the first-time host, TAU, through its leadership, expressed its profound gratitude to the delegates and organizers, acknowledging that while many more had hoped to attend, the spirit of learning and camaraderie remained strong among the SUCs represented.