Photos by: Neil Clark Ongchangco, Baguio City PIO
In celebration of the annual Scout Officials-for-a-Day (SOFAD) program, student leaders from the University of Baguio High School (UBHS) stepped into the roles of Baguio City’s key officials on October 13, 2025. The event, jointly organized by the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) and Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), offers young Scouts a unique opportunity to experience leadership, governance, and civic responsibility firsthand.
Leading the UBHS delegation was Senior Scout Angela Sophea T. Lacson, who assumed the position of Mayor of Baguio City, representing Mayor Benjamin Magalong. She was joined by fellow Scouts who also took on leadership positions in the city government:
- Senior Scout Lynel T. Odasco – served as Vice Councilor Joel Alangsab
- Senior Scout Justine Collantes – represented Vice Councilor Leandro Yango
- Senior Scout Erin Francesca M. Ferrer – took the role of Vice Councilor Van Oliver Dicang
- Cadet Scout Beverly P. Narcise – led the General Services Office (GSO) under Eugene Buyucan
Through this one-day hands-on civic experience, the UBHS Scouts gained meaningful insights into policy-making, governance, and community involvement. The experience highlighted that leadership is not about power, but about service, accountability, and compassion, the very principles at the heart of Scouting.
Below are inspiring nuggets of wisdom from the UBHS Scout Officials, whose experiences remind us of the true meaning of leadership and service.
“During my experience, I saw how dedicated and determined our Mayor is in improving Baguio, promoting eco-friendly practices, supporting indigenous communities, and ensuring accountability in every department. I also met several city officials through Sir Mark Ryan Montes and was inspired by their kindness, hard work, and loyalty to making our city better. Even after my time as SOFAD Mayor, I will continue to live by the Girl Scout Promise and Law, inspiring other youth to become leaders of change for Baguio City.” – Senior Scout Angela Sophea T. Lacson.
“Serving as councilors for a day was a truly meaningful experience that taught us the real essence of leadership and service. We were inspired by Hon. Joel A. Alangsab and Vice Councilor Leandro Yango’s kindness and the support of my fellow SOFAD participants, who showed us that true leadership comes from compassion and teamwork. This experience strengthened our commitment to live by the Scout Oath and Law and to serve others with sincerity and dedication.” – Senior Scouts Lynel T. Odasco & Justine Collantes
“At first, I thought the SOFAD event would be hard, tiring, and scary. But after experiencing it, I found it exciting, fulfilling, and supported by amazing people who helped one another. I’m thankful to everyone, especially Councilor Van Oliver M. Dicang, for making this day a meaningful lesson in leadership and growth.” – Senior Scout Erin Francesca M. Ferrer.
“As a student, being a SOFAD for a day was a meaningful experience because I learned many things about waste management in Baguio City. I discovered that our sanitary landfills are struggling to handle the large amount of waste produced, causing the GSO to spend a lot on waste disposal. Because of this, I encourage everyone, especially schools, markets, malls and other business establishments, to use reusable and eco-friendly materials instead of plastics to help minimize waste and help keep our city clean.” – Cadet Scout Beverly P. Narcise.
In addition to assuming official duties, the Scouts championed their advocacy for environmental awareness and sustainable urban living, in line with SDG 15: Life on Land. Their participation in city government highlighted the importance of protecting natural resources, managing waste responsibly, and preserving Baguio’s greenery — crucial steps toward a cleaner, more sustainable city.
This experience reflects the Scouts’ mission of creating a better world through service, aligning with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by promoting leadership development and civic collaboration. The program instills in youth a sense of accountability, empathy, and courage, values that will guide them as they become tomorrow’s public servants and environmental stewards.
The Scout Officials-for-a-Day program remains a transformative avenue for developing civic-minded, responsible, and empowered youth. The UBHS Scouts’ participation demonstrates that leadership is not defined by position but by purpose — to serve others and to care for people and the planet.
You may visit the FB Page of GSP (https://www.facebook.com/GSPBaguio) and BSP (https://www.facebook.com/bsp.baguiocity) Baguio City Council for updates!
