From 26-28 March 2025, the cool mountains of Baguio City served as the vibrant backdrop for the 2025 Scholars’ Leadership Boot Camp (SLC), a three-day training event that brought together some of the most promising young leaders from the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). Designed for second and third-year scholars, the boot camp aimed to cultivate leadership rooted in values, responsibility, and service. With eligibility requiring prior participation in the Values Formation Program and active involvement in organizations or demonstrated leadership potential, the camp gathered a select and passionate group of student leaders for a meaningful learning experience.
Among the enthusiastic participants were thirteen (13) scholars from Saint Louis University. Some of these scholars were also active members of the Baguio Association of Government Grantees and Scholars (BAGGS)—an organization committed to fostering a sense of community, leadership, and civic engagement among scholars. Their presence highlighted not only their individual commitment to personal and professional growth but also the university’s broader mission of forming servant-leaders who are ready to impact society positively.
The camp featured a dynamic series of workshops and plenary sessions that centered on core leadership principles such as ethical leadership, social responsibility, effective communication, and community-based project development. Resource speakers from various sectors shared real-world insights, encouraging the scholars to think critically about their roles in nation-building and public service. A strong emphasis was placed on servant leadership—leading with empathy, humility, and a deep sense of purpose. These lessons were further enriched by group discussions that allowed the scholars to reflect, contribute their perspectives, and learn from one another.
A variety of outdoor team-building activities also provided a practical space for the participants to apply their learning. Through cooperative games, strategic challenges, and problem-solving tasks, scholars worked closely with their peers from different provinces and backgrounds. These activities not only built trust and solidarity but also helped scholars recognize the power of collaboration in achieving collective goals. Bonds were formed that transcended school affiliations, creating a support network of like-minded youth leaders who shared the same passion for meaningful change.As the three-day camp drew to a close, the Louisian scholars and their fellow participants returned home with renewed energy, deeper insight, and strengthened leadership capabilities. Their involvement in the SLC is a testament to their dedication to academic excellence, values-based leadership, and community service. Through platforms like the Scholars’ Leadership Boot Camp, these young leaders are being equipped not just with knowledge, but with the heart and drive to serve their fellow citizens. With the leadership torch now passed on to these youth, the future of the Cordilleras—and the nation—remains hopeful and bright. (Article and photos by BAGGS)
