In the beginning

In December 2002, a group of young professionals sensed the need to create an arena for social involvement by the youth in light of the May 2004 elections. After months of reflection and research, the group forged to formalize the network last August 2003 into what is now called Youth Alliance Philippines (YAP). Since then, YAP has extended its network to include volunteer students, and affiliate youth and youth-serving organizations in its voters’ involvement campaign Young Voters Zone (YVZ).

Young Voters Caravan, the major activity of the YVZ campaign was launched on February 25, 2004, at La Salle Greenhills. It was attended by around 1,100 participants from the National Capital Region and nearby provinces. Former President Corazon C. Aquino, and institutions such as EDSA People Power Commission (EPPC), National Movement for Free Elections (NAMFREL), and Focolare Movement have acknowledged the unique youthful nature of the Caravan. Volunteers journeyed across the country to conduct nonpartisan and nonsectarian voters’ involvement sessions and established Young Voters Zones.

The Caravan sought to rally young voters to draft and pushed for a clear and genuine youth program in the platform of the next administration, and encourage them to initiate activities that would echo the message and insights of the campaign experience – a socially responsible vote made by empowered young Filipino citizens.