As emerging leaders, young people need safe spaces where they can gather, talk, listen, and learn about important issues affecting their lives and communities. The Global Youth Summit (GYS), co-organized by the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) and SM Cares, provides exactly that opportunity. Mall spaces are transformed into welcoming learning environments where young Filipinos can explore topics such as environmental sustainability, peace and justice, financial literacy, governance, physical and mental health, and responsible action.

Global Youth Summit 2026

Four SM malls – SM City Bacolod, SM Downtown, SM Mall of Asia, and SM City Laoag – hosted GYS events between August 17 and 20, 2026. The events drew approximately 1,000 participants in Bacolod, 900 in Downtown, 1,000 at Mall of Asia, and 1,100 in Laoag. The strong turnout underscores the importance of creating accessible spaces where young people can engage in meaningful dialogue, explore issues affecting their families and communities, and reflect on their role in shaping the future.

The Global Youth Summit reflects GPF’s commitment to developing moral and innovative leaders by equipping young people with the values, skills, and opportunities to take ownership of challenges and contribute to positive change in their communities. This emphasis on leadership and opportunity also extends to entrepreneurship and economic empowerment through initiatives such as the ASEAN Youth Entrepreneurship Summit.

To learn more about the GYS events, read Manila Bulletin’s article, “Global Youth Summit 2026: 4 Cities, 4,000 Young Filipinos, One Shared Stake in the Country’s Future.”