March 21, 2009 4:45 a.m
I became a member of the PYG more than two decades ago. at the time of my membership, i was the president of the youth organization in our place and at the same time an elected Barangay youth councillor. I was among the first batch of elected members of the Barangay Youth Council (BYC) which replaced the Kabataang Barangay (KB) in the aftermath of the EDSA revolution which toppled the Marcos regime.
Perhaps fueled by its newly found independence, youth organizations were sprouting like mushrooms during that time. Then came the PYG. Although the motivation to create an umbrella group for all the youth organizations was quite suspect, it became a reality. After its creation, the various youth groups died a natural death as most of its leaders started enlisting with the new group. During our peak period in the late 80's up to the early 90's we had more than 200 members and it could have been much more if not for the strict screening that we instituted for would be members.
There were some comments and criticisms from various sectors during that time that we were just used by our patrons to advance their own political agenda. I say, what the heck!! I really enjoyed the numerous gimmicks and escapades of the group. the parties were a plenty. "Discorrals " here and there. Battle o the Bands. But topping them all was our group's winning three major prizes at the Kadayawan " Indak-indak sa Daan ' street dancing competition. Luckily for me, i was not made to wear a G-string while dancing along the main streets of Davao City unlike many of my fellow dancers.
I also miss the camaraderie among the members as we were then like brothers and sisters, except that many of us became sweethearts and some even ended as husband and wife. Well, what are brothers and sisters for? He.he.he.My lips are sealed.....