DUE to insistent request from various youth organizations nationwide, the application period for the 5th Search for the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations spearheaded by the TAYO Awards Foundation and National Youth Commission had been extended until June 30, 2007.

        TAYO is set to recognize, reward and encourage youth organizations that implement projects that aid their schools, barangays or communities while maximizing their existing resources.

        For the past four years of annual recognition, the Bicol Region had brought five youth organizations to the final selections of the search. In 2003, the Naga College Foundation Cultural Arts Center and Universidad de Sta. lasbel Nursing Students’ Association had made it to the national finals while Philippine Rural Reconstruction Youth Association of Albay and University of North Eastern Philippines, university student government completes the roster of the finalist in 2004 and Mabini Colleges, College of Commerce and Accountancy Central Council in 2006.

        This selection is open to all groups, organizations, clubs and societies whose membership and leadership is composed of at least fifteen (15) members who are 15 to 30 years old. The basis for judging is the entry project conducted by the organization in January 2006 and completed on or before the deadline.

        Interested youth groups should submit the following requirements: Accomplished Entry Form, Certification attesting to the existence and veracity of the information submitted, One page short profile of the organization featuring a brief description, its nature and background, programs and track record, Three page profile of the project entry featuring a brief but descriptive narrative that will illustrate the program/project (the description of the project should include its site, timetable, process of implementation, level of community involvement, profile and number of beneficiaries and finances/resources used) and three page project documentation that includes photos, certificates and testimonies of partners/ beneficiaries.

        Winners will be awarded cash grants of P50,000 each and specially handcrafted trophies by artist Toym de Leon Imao.

        For more information call 054-8115804 and 4730435 or visit websites: www.youth.net.ph or www.tayoawards.org