The Mahogany - Ang Punla

𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐢 𝐃𝐅𝐒𝐒𝐋𝐆 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐔𝐩 𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐡𝐨𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰

The Mahogany spoke with Mati Division Federation of Supreme Secondary Learner Government President Chryztelle Yhanne Nirza to discuss her vision, the current state of the federation, and its role in advancing learner representation across the division.

Editor’s Note: This interview was conducted on Dec. 30, 2025. Please note that some details or statistics may have evolved since the time of recording to reflect the current situation.

The Mati Division Federation of Supreme Secondary Learner Government is the highest student governing body in the division, representing secondary school learners from various schools across Mati. It aims to unify student leaders, promote active participation, and serve as a platform through which learners’ voices are consolidated and communicated to school authorities and other stakeholders.

Chryztelle Yhanne Nirza of Davao Oriental Regional Science High School currently serves as the DFSSLG President for the Mati Division and as the Davao Regional Federation of Supreme Secondary Learner Government Secretary for School Year 2025–2026.

According to Chryztelle Yhanne Nirza, the current state of the DFSSLG is stronger than it was before and the organization is actively participating in programs that promote student leadership.

“The current status of the Division Federated SSLG is strong, much stronger now than before. Over the past months, we have actively participated in many trainings and seminars, mainly at the national and regional levels,” she said.

Nirza also noted that even though DFSSLG officers come from different schools that are far from one another, they still manage to make initiatives, such as the donation drive they launched for those affected in Manay by the 7.4 magnitude earthquake back in October of 2025.

“Even though our officers’ schools are far from each other, we were still able to successfully conduct our outreach program and our donation drive, Youth for Relief, for those affected in Manay by the 7.4 magnitude earthquake,” she said. “Because of these efforts, I can confidently say that our organization is doing really well,” she added.

𝐆𝐎𝐀𝐋𝐒 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔

Chryztelle said that the Division Federated SSLG and its Project Development Officers (PDOs) are planning to incorporate the lessons they learned from the Learners’ Convergence Philippines 2025 (LearnCon ‘25) to students in Mati to promote youth leadership as the Supreme Student Government election is coming.

“Since November 2025, we have joined the Learners’ Convergence, and the plan of our PDO is to incorporate the lessons we learned at LearnCon in Dumaguete into the children here in Mati,” she said. “I believe that our future plans will include Youth Leadership Training centered on service for leadership development and sustainability. Since the election is coming soon, we really need to mold our future leaders, especially here in the division,” she added.

According to Nirza, the DFSSLG also plans to conduct outreach programs to children in vulnerable communities, providing them with material assistance and values formation.

“One of our key initiatives is to conduct an outreach program focused on children, particularly in vulnerable communities. Currently, we are still planning which community really needs help. We will provide material assistance and, at the same time, values formation to reinforce the commitment of the DFSSLG,” she said. “I want to incorporate these activities and plans into the DFSSLG next year,” she added.

Chryztelle said that tthe DF is also planning to partner with Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) offices in different barangays in Mati and other youth-centered organizations.

“Aside from Youth Leadership Training and Learning Convergence, the DFSSLG is planning to build partnerships with the SK and other youth-centered organizations,” she said.

Nirza also noted that the Division Federated SSLG is developing more projects centered on youth leadership but some plans are still being finalized due to distance and coordination challenges.

“We are also developing new projects focused on youth leadership, although some plans are still being finalized due to distance and coordination challenges among officers,” she said.

𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐒

Chryztelle Yhanne Nirza said that the DFSSLG is not facing any major problems aside from budget limitations and the distance between schools, which she noted are common and unavoidable challenges.

“The number one problem is budget, which is a common challenge for all organizations unless leaders are wise enough to partner with other groups or the government. This is something unavoidable. Another challenge is distance, but this is already a given situation. Other than that, we do not have any major problems,” she said.

Nirza also shared that the Division Federated SSLG officers remain active in carrying out in the organization’s plans and activities. She added that advisers and Project Development Officers are supportive of the federation’s officers.

“All my officers are active and participative, and we have not missed any plans. No conflicts have happened because our advisers and PDOs are very supportive, helping us successfully carry out our plans and vision,” she said.

𝐋𝐀𝐂𝐊 𝐎𝐅 𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒

In Bobon National High School, awareness of the Mati Division Federation of Secondary School Learner Government remains limited among students, with many learners unfamiliar with the federation’s role, programs, and significance in representing student voices at the division level.

According to Nirza, the lack of awareness about the DFSSLG among Bobon National High School students may be attributed to the school’s SSLG President not having a strong connection with the Division Federation. She also emphasized that the organization remains open to all students who wish to join and participate, even if they do not hold officer positions.

“I believe your school’s lack of exposure may be because your SSLG President is not yet strongly connected with the DF. Everyone is always welcome to join, participate, cooperate, and support DF activities despite not being an officer,” she said.

Chryztelle also said that most SSLG Presidents in Mati are informed about the DFSSLG through their group chat with other SSLG Presidents and DFSSLG Officers. She added that DF officers have also built friendly relationships with SSLG Presidents and that the division-wide learner government is careful in sharing clear and complete information. She also advised those who are still unaware of the Division Federated SSLG to follow updates on the official Mati Division Federation SSLG page.

“We also make sure that no one is left uninformed,” she said.

Nirza added that it is the responsibility of each SSLG President in the division to share information about the DFSSLG within their respective schools. She said she feels motivated to strengthen the federation’s exposure, even visiting schools that are far from Mati City proper if needed. She also noted that she plans to suggest this initiative to her advisers, since DFSSLG decisions are stronger when PDOs and advisers are in agreement.

“This will help make the DFSSLG more visible and strengthen partnerships across different schools,” she said.

𝐂𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐀𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒

Chryztelle Yhanne Nirza explained that the Mati Division Federation of the Supreme Secondary Learner Government prioritizes partnerships with organizations that have youth-centered objectives, such as the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) and the Local Youth Development Office (LYDO). She further stated that the Division Federated SSLG is open to partnerships and collaborative initiatives, especially in times of need. As an example, she cited the Youth for Relief donation drive, an initiative rooted in the DFSSLG that later gained media exposure and encouraged other organizations to partner in the effort.

Chryztelle shared that the DFSSLG achievement she is most proud of was when all DF officers were able to attend the National Learners’ Convergence, which served as a testament to their efforts to participate in training, seminars, and other initiatives during the event. She emphasized that DFSSLG officers dedicate their time to training themselves in order to better serve learners across the division.

“In that way, our knowledge grew further when it comes to leading the division,” she said.

𝐒𝐓𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐏𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍

Chryztelle said that any initiative of the Mati Division Federated SSLG is also shared by all SSLG Presidents across the division. She emphasized that it is the role of each SSLG president to disseminate information to their respective schools so that ordinary students can be aware of and participate in DFSSLG activities.

As an example of proper information dissemination, she cited how her fellow students and even teachers from Davao Oriental Regional Science High School helped in the DFSSLG’s donation drive by sharing information about the initiative’s objectives, goals, beneficiaries, and the contributions needed.

“Because of proper information dissemination, the students and even teachers actively participated. Their support made the donation drive a success, allowing us to provide effective assistance to the affected individuals in Manay,” she said.

Nirza emphasized that the Division Federated SSLG ensures that student concerns are properly addressed by maintaining inclusive and transparent communication channels.

“In short, the key lies in effective communication, inclusivity, and transparency among DFSSLG officers and student leaders,” she said.

Chryztelle Yhanne Nirza also highlighted that young leaders should vote wisely in the upcoming DFSSLG election. She advised them to be transparent and to make sure they clearly understand the candidates’ plans and goals. She also reminded them not to vote based on looks or popularity, but rather to focus on the candidates’ principles and vision in choosing leaders who truly deserve the position.

“My message for young leaders in the upcoming DFSSLG election is to vote wisely. Be transparent and make sure you understand the candidates’ plans and goals. Don’t vote based on looks or popularity, focus on their principles and vision to choose the leaders who truly deserve the position.”

Written by: Alshaif Ali A. Narawi
Photo by: Dorshs Streamline

𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐈 𝐀𝐊𝐎 𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐀 𝐁𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐄 𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐆!!

Today, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women around the world in honor of National Women’s Month. This day is a reminder of the countless contributions women make in our families, communities, and society. From leaders and innovators to caregivers and changemakers, women continue to inspire progress and break barriers every day.

National Women’s Month is not only about celebrating accomplishments but also about recognizing the courage, determination, and perseverance of women who continue to fight for equality, respect, and opportunities for all. It is a time to honor the voices that have shaped history and the voices that will continue to shape the future.

Let us take this moment to appreciate, uplift, and empower every woman who strives to make a difference. May we continue to support one another, promote equality, and create a world where every woman and girl can pursue her dreams without limits.

🌷 Her strength. Her voice. Her power.
Happy National Women’s Month!

Reliving the magic of National Arts Month 2026! 🎨

Yesterday February 27, 2026, we gathered to celebrate the power of art to inspire, heal, and unite us. With the theme "Ani ng Sining: Katotohanan at Giting", we showcased the incredible talents of our students.

Through music, dance, drama, and visual arts, we told stories of struggle and triumph, of hope and courage, and of the unbreakable human spirit. The energy was electric, the performances were breathtaking, and everyone felt connected and inspired.

We're grateful to everyone who made this event possible - our talented performers, dedicated organizers, and supportive community. Your energy and enthusiasm made it unforgettable!

Here's to the arts, to creativity, and to the power of community! 💪

"

𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐩, 𝐃𝐀𝐕𝐑𝐀𝐀: 𝐒𝐢𝐱 𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐁𝐨𝐛𝐨𝐧 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧 𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐝 𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟒 𝐭𝐨 𝟔, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔, 𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐢 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐀𝐕𝐑𝐀𝐀 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭.

Our qualifiers are officially off the blocks and finally headed to DAVRAA! From the court to the track and into the pool, these six have proven they have the “clutch” factor needed to compete in Tagum City.

🖼️:Jhe-Ann Andres
✍️:Alshaif Narawi/ Jhe-Ann Andres

Leave it all on the floor🏀

Good luck to our fierce Bobon NHS basketball girls as they represent our school in the CITY MEET 2026. Show them the spirit of a true BOBONIAN

Let’s go, Bobon! 🐾

𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞: 𝐉𝐡𝐨𝐧 𝐋𝐥𝐨𝐲𝐝 𝐋𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐚𝐝, 𝐚 𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐮𝐬 𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐣𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭, 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐁𝐨𝐛𝐨𝐧 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐬 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐢 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐧 𝐉𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟐𝟔, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔, 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐟𝐢𝐯𝐞-𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐣𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐦 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐣𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧.

𝒢𝑜𝑜𝒹𝓁𝓊𝒸𝓀 𝒥𝒽𝑜𝓃 𝐿𝓁𝑜𝓎𝒹 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝐵𝓇𝒾𝓃𝑔𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒫𝓇𝒾𝒹𝑒 𝑜𝒻 𝐵𝑜𝒷𝑜𝓃💚🤍

🖼️Jhe-Ann Jaidel Andres
✍️ by Alshaif Ali A. Narawi