United States Ambassador to the Philippines Harry K Thomas Jr was at Xavier University for a roundtable discussion with alumni of the Congressional Internship Program for Mindanao Youth Leaders (CIPYML) on June 28 at XU’s American Corner.

Thomas met with about 10 graduates of CIPYML who shared with him their experiences while undertaking the internship program. 

“Keep on being role models and ambassadors not just for the people of Mindanao but all the Filipinos and the youth of the world,” said Thomas to the graduates who are now working for various government and development agencies, such as the Mindanao Development Authority and the Bangsamoro Youth Affairs.

CIPYML is a USAID-supported project began in 2002 implemented under the Growth with Equity in Mindanao Program in partnership with the Philippine House of Representatives. If offers recent graduates of colleges and universities in ARMM and other conflict-affected areas in Mindanao an opportunity to work with Congressional Committees, Departments and offices of Congressional representatives, and assist in policy formulation, research and the preparation of legislation.

This is the first time for XU to host the CIPYML roundtable discussion. While at XU, Thomas also spent some time talking with XU administrators and faculty members.