Hey, I’m Mateo – but everyone calls me Matt.

I grew up in Cebu, Philippines. Bayanihan is a huge part of who I am. It’s that Filipino thing about helping each other out.

I saw a lot of tough stuff growing up. Many young Filipinos don’t get a fair shot. Education? Opportunities? Hard to come by. Poverty is always a threat.

It lit a fire in me. I had to do something.

So, I studied Social Work at the University of the Philippines Cebu. I didn’t just study. I volunteered. I helped organize stuff. It was real. Theory met reality – and wow, what an eye-opener!

After school, I joined Kabalikat Para Sa Kabataan. They help young people through education and training. I spent almost ten years there. Started in the field, ended up as program director.

Picture this: running workshops in remote villages, making deals with businesses, even wading through government paperwork. It was crazy!

I learned something big:

• Handouts aren’t enough.
• We need real solutions.
• Solutions that fix the source of the problems.

It’s about helping young people become leaders. Giving them confidence. Giving them chances to change things.

I believe in the power of teamwork. Young people are stronger together. We need to build networks. Networks of support, mentors, and collaboration. That way, we can make sure everyone’s voice is heard.

Now, I’m putting everything I’ve got into [Your Website]. I want to connect youth advocates all over the Philippines.

It’s more than just a website. It’s a place to share ideas, find resources, and work together.

My goal? Give you the info you need. Help you navigate youth advocacy.

Outside of work? I hike in the Cebu mountains. Gotta get my nature fix! I also play guitar with my friends. (My neighbors might not love my singing, though!)

I value:

• Honesty.
• Doing the right thing.
• Fairness.

I want to give you the most accurate, up-to-date info. I value your trust. I won’t mess that up.

So, yeah, that’s me in a nutshell. I’m excited to be on this journey with you. I hope I can help make things better for young Filipinos.

Salamat!