Jose Aranas chronicles his experience as a facilitator with the Gen Hub team during the 6-day Regional Youth Day of the dioceses of the Western Visayas in the island province of Romblon.

Some consider the island of Romblon as the “Heart of the Philippines.” However, it is more famous for its high-quality marble deposits. But as I stood among 1,700 young people from across Western Visayas, I realized that there was something “taking shape” on the island. It was the spiritual “chiseling” of a new generation.

From May 4 to 10, 2026, I had the privilege of joining the Regional Youth Day (RYD) in Romblon. I’ve attended many youth gatherings over the years, but I can honestly say this was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. The air was thick with a “contagious” energy — a fire that challenged our team to stay at par with the delegates.

Testing the Light

Our mission, alongside the Gen Hub team, was to lead a three-day workshop series titled “Project Radiate.” The goal was simple but ambitious: to help the youth “Radiate with Christ” through Mission, Witness, and Care for Creation.

On the first day, we held a “dry run” with our first group of 300 participants. We centered our discussions on God’s love, the Will of God, and Mutual Love. These aren’t just theological concepts; they are the fuel for “generating the presence of Jesus in our midst.” As we shared our own experiences of responding to His love, I watched as the young people moved from passive listening to active engagement.

By the time we reached our workshop — using the 6×1 pedagogical method (a continuous cycle of observation, action, and reflection) promoted by the Gen Center — the atmosphere in the room was electric. The youth weren’t just identifying problems in their local parishes; they were articulating inspired solutions. Seeing them tackle social realities and environmental protection with such clarity left me deeply hopeful for the future of the Church.

More Than Words

What struck me most wasn’t just the workshops, but the way faith manifested in the quiet and the dynamic moments alike.

I was moved by the sight of hundreds of youths lining up for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, a powerful testament to their desire for renewal. The liturgical ceremonies were sublime; the choir’s voices seemed to lift the roof of the cathedral, and the Via Lucis (Way of Light) was so thoughtfully dramatized that we felt we were walking through the Easter mysteries in real time.

Even the cultural presentations were a revelation. The talent and effort invested by these young delegates reflected a genuine passion to connect — not just with God, but with one another.

The “Marble Vessels” of Romblon

Beyond the sessions, our community immersion opened our eyes to the unique challenges of island life. We saw the social and environmental realities that these young people face daily. It became clear that “Care for Creation” isn’t an abstract duty for them; it is a necessity for their home.

The appreciation we felt was overwhelming. Every session ended with a flurry of photos and requests to keep in touch. To honor that connection, we devised a digital link to track their “Project Radiate” initiatives. We wanted to ensure that the proposals they made — born from a desire to serve their communities — wouldn’t just stay on a workshop paper but would be followed up and supported.

A Lasting Impression

As our third and final session drew to a close, I looked out at the faces of the more than a thousand young people we had directly engaged with over the week. Feeling a deep connection with each one of them, my companions and I felt like leaving family.

Romblon may be famous for its marble vessels, but I found that the people are the true treasures — fragile, perhaps, but filled with grace. I left the island with a mark on my heart, convinced that if these 1,700 youths continue to “Take Courage, Rise up and Radiate,” the future of our faith is bright because it is in good hands.

Our days in Romblon have been a breathtaking, surreal, and life-giving experience. It is, indeed, in the heart of God.

Jose Aranas