A major national gathering of Catholic youth leaders has been postponed, citing surging fuel prices and inflation.
Bishop Antonio Marcelino Maralit Jr. of San Pablo, chairman of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Youth, announced the decision in a letter addressing organizers and youth ministers.
The 23rd National Conference of Youth Ministers (NCYM) was scheduled Aug. 18–22 in the Diocese of Kidapawan.
Maralit said rising oil prices have triggered a ripple effect, sharply increasing travel, accommodation and operational costs tied to the event.
He warned that “exorbitant travel costs” could prevent many dioceses from sending representatives, resulting in a diminished and unrepresentative national gathering.
Organizers also faced mounting expenses for catering, venue operations and local transportation, creating what he described as a “deficit that exceeds current austerity measures.”
“As a Church that walks with its people, we believe that holding an expensive large-scale event while our families struggle to meet their basic needs would create a severe disconnect from the pressing realities of our flock,” Maralit said.
He added that the safety, well-being and peace of mind of participants remained the Church’s foremost priority in making the decision.
Despite the postponement, Maralit urged youth ministers to continue pastoral work, encouraging young people to remain hopeful amid economic uncertainty.
“Let us continue to accompany our young people with hope, reminding them that even in times of economic trial, Christ remains our peace,” Maralit said.
He said new dates for the conference would be announced once conditions stabilize and participation becomes more feasible for dioceses nationwide.
Meanwhile, smaller national gatherings, including the Youth Directors Assembly and coordinating council meeting, will proceed in June as scheduled in Manila.
The NCYM is a biennial gathering of diocesan youth leaders and representatives from across the country, convened by the bishops’ youth commission for formation, coordination and collaboration.
The gathering features workshops, discussions and training sessions to strengthen pastoral skills, promote unity among dioceses, and address the needs and aspirations of young people.