Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) – Singer Aiza Seguerra officially took his oath Tuesday as the new chairman of the National Youth Commission (NYC).
In his acceptance speech, the former child star said he’s excited about his new job and the huge responsibility that comes with it.
He also asked NYC employees to give their 100 percent to their jobs.
“Tayo po ang magtatanggol sa mga kabataan natin,” Seguerra said. “Tayo ang gagawa ng nga hakbang para masigurado na sila ay magiging karapat-dapat na tagapag-mana ng Pilipinas. At sa nakikita ko po ngayon, malaki ang kelangan nating gawin.”
[Translation: We are tasked with upholding the welfare of our youth. We must take steps to ensure that they become worthy successors to our country. And from what I have seen, much needs to be done.]
In a prior interview with CNN Philippines, Seguerra said the biggest issues facing the youth today include drug addiction, early pregnancy and the rising number of HIV cases.
Read: Aiza Seguerra, partner get posts in Duterte administration
He plans to use a region-based approach in carrying out the Commission’s programs and policies, as well as use the arts and culture to instill nationalism in the youth.
Seguerra also wants to make sure that young people in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transsexual community and the indigenous community get fair attention.
He said he will consult youth sectors to find out what could be done to help empower them.
Seguerra is a vocal supporter of President Rodrigo Duterte, actively campaigning for him on social media and other platforms. The president officially named him NYC head on August 12.
CNN Philippines Digital Producer VJ Bacungan contributed to this report.
