Von Jabagaton: A Voice for Peace from Mindanao to ASEAN
In the serene barangay of Bislig, Surigao del Sur, where mornings unfold softly and neighbors share deep bonds, a young boy named Von Jabagaton grew up with a quiet demeanor, absorbing the world around him. Today, at 24, he has transformed into a prominent advocate for peace, not only in Mindanao but across the ASEAN region, embodying a journey from local humility to international influence.
A Non-Linear Path to Purpose
Von's academic and professional trajectory defies a straight line, reflecting a deliberate search for meaningful service. He started in the Humanities and Social Sciences strand, fostering an early passion for human stories and societal structures. He then pursued a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy at the University of the Immaculate Conception, immersing himself in health sciences. Currently, he is completing his Master of Public Administration with a major in Public Policy at Ateneo de Davao University.
"I never had a linear trajectory," Von reflects. "From humanities to health sciences and eventually to public policy, it reflects my search for where service and impact truly meet." His move from Bislig to Davao for higher education broadened his perspective, revealing how health systems, governance, and social cohesion are interconnected. He emphasizes that peace is more than the absence of conflict; it involves functional systems, inclusive leadership, and accessible opportunities.
Finding His Voice and Platform
In Davao, Von joined the Durian Toastmasters Club, where he spent two years honing his communication, critical thinking, and leadership skills. This experience led him to the Rotary Club of Waling-Waling Davao, which provided a platform for his ideas and supported his growth as a young leader from Mindanao. Through their endorsement, he became part of the Founding Cohort of the Rotary ASEAN Youth Peacebuilders Programme in January 2026 at Sunway University in Malaysia.
There, alongside 43 youth leaders from 11 ASEAN countries, Von represented Mindanao, sharing stories of resilience and community leadership. His authenticity earned him the People’s Choice Peacebuilder Award and the Most Innovative Peacebuilding Idea Award. "I believe what resonated most was authenticity and empathy," he says. "I lead by listening, collaborating, and creating safe spaces for dialogue."
From Margins to Center: Localizing Peace Efforts
As Project Chair of the AYPP Alumni Network, Von is now focused on translating regional insights into local action in Mindanao. He plans to launch youth-led dialogue spaces, mentorship programs, and community-based peace initiatives tailored to local realities. His vision is clear: peace must be localized, inclusive, and sustained, drawing from the strengths of grassroots communities.
For young people in remote areas, Von offers a powerful message: "Your lived experience is your strength. Leadership is not defined by proximity to power. It is defined by credibility, competence, and courage." His own journey from a small barangay to an ASEAN stage demonstrates that consistent learning, service, and presence can bridge vast distances.
A Story Larger Than One Individual
Von Jabagaton's story transcends personal achievement; it symbolizes Mindanao's evolving narrative from conflict to peace innovation and highlights Davao's role in nurturing leaders at the intersection of health, governance, and civic engagement. From barangay pathways in Bislig to international dialogue halls, his journey underscores that peacebuilding is built through everyday actions—in classrooms, community halls, and mentorship circles—and often begins with a simple choice to care.
