The Ten Outstanding Young Isabeleño Awards (TOYIA) successfully concluded this year’s Linggo ng Kabataan month-long celebration on October 20, held at the Bishop Querexeta Formation Center.
Organized by the City Government of Isabela under the leadership of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman and spearheaded by the Local Youth Development Office (LYDO) led by Levinia Jarejolne, the annual awards aim to recognize exceptional young Isabeleños whose leadership, service, and achievements have made a lasting impact on their communities.
SK Federation President Naila Belleng opened the ceremony with her welcome message, expressing gratitude to all guests and participants for their continuous support to youth initiatives.
In her keynote message, Mayor Turabin-Hataman personally graced the event to celebrate and honor this year’s awardees. She congratulated all the recipients, emphasizing that our culture is grounded in community and sustainability — these are what we, Isabeleños, can teach the world. She also encouraged the youth to continue working hand in hand with the city government during her remaining term, reminding them that connecting people and nurturing culture sustains our shared progress.
Vice Mayor Ar-Jhemar Ajibon, in his message of support, commended the LYDO for serving as a bridge between the youth sector and the local government. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Sangguniang Panlungsod to advancing youth-centered programs and legislation that empower young Isabeleños.
Meanwhile, Basilan Board Member District 1 Ahmed Ibn Djaliv Hataman delivered an inspiring message to the youths, highlighting the importance of unity and action. He said, “Tapos na ang panahon para mangarap — now is the time for action, now is the time to see.”
The 2025 Ten Outstanding Young Isabeleño Awardees were recognized for their exemplary efforts in various fields:
1. Good Governance – Annul Lim
2. Education – Amy Rose Sanson
3. Economic Empowerment – Trisha Mae Badiang
4. Active Citizenship – Abdel Aziz Musa
5. Health – Alshemar Rajab
6. Good Governance – Ranie Mohammad
7. Good Governance – Nurhina Ahari
8. Environment – Mary Grace Buenbrazo
9. Social Inclusion and Equity – Adawiya Sali
10. Agriculture – Oscar Francisco Jr.
In addition to the TOYIA honorees, the event also recognized outstanding participants from the Linggo ng Kabataan 2025 activities, including Volunteers of the Year and various partner organizations whose contributions ensured the success of the celebration.
The City Government of Isabela extends its heartfelt gratitude to all partner agencies and organizations for their continued support and collaboration: 19th Special Forces Magnitude Company; 6th Special Forces “Lion Heart” Battalion; City General Services Office; City Information Office; IsaTV; City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office; Isabela City Police Station; Board Member Ahmed Ibn Djaliv Hataman; Romelita Fullente, RSW; Tau Gamma Phi Isabela City; Universal College Foundation of Southeast Asia and the Pacific Inc.; Nagdilaab Foundation Inc.; City Health Office; Basilan National High School; Basilan National High School – Night; United Evangelical Church of Isabela; IT Division; Hawks Coed; Barangay Kapatagan Grande; Barangay Lampinigan; City Population Management and Development Office; Barangay Menzi; City Social Welfare and Development Office; City Agriculture Office; Sangguniang Kabataan Federation Isabela City; Barangay Lanote; Barangay Timpul; I-Graphix Printing Shop; Hideout Catering Services; PGB EA Mojaheden Cosain; Alternative Learning System (ALS); and Mohammad Ahsraf Abubakar.
Isabela City’s celebration of its outstanding youth reflects its unwavering commitment to nurturing future leaders who embody the values of excellence, integrity, and service. By honoring these remarkable young individuals, the city continues to inspire a culture of volunteerism, civic responsibility, and sustainable development — ensuring that the spirit of good governance and community empowerment endures in generations to come. (Words by KJ Lim/Photos by C. Digon, IsaTV)
