Rep. Jonathan Clement “JC” Abalos II of the 4Ps Party-list called on Southeast Asian lawmakers to take urgent and coordinated action to address widening digital inequalities and the growing mental health challenges among young people in the region.
Abalos made the appeal during the 3rd Consultative Meeting of the Young Parliamentarians of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), where he was designated chair of the group by Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III.
Speaking before regional counterparts, Abalos warned that gaps in digital access and literacy—particularly between urban and rural communities—are becoming a major development concern.
“Digital literacy levels among ASEAN youth remain uneven. That gap is not just technical—it is a development issue, an equality issue, and ultimately a legislative issue,” he said.
He noted that while emerging technologies create opportunities in education, employment, and governance, their benefits risk being unevenly distributed without inclusive policies.
Abalos urged fellow lawmakers to ensure that ASEAN’s digital transformation remains both innovative and accessible.
He also raised concerns over the increasing prevalence of mental health issues among young people, describing it as a pressing social challenge.
“Mental health is not only a health issue; it is a social justice issue,” he said, citing rising cases of anxiety, depression, and stress, compounded by stigma and limited access to support.
Abalos said these issues are often underreported and insufficiently addressed in policy, leaving many young people without adequate assistance.
As a young legislator, he underscored the responsibility of emerging leaders to shape responsive, future-oriented policies at the intersection of technology and youth welfare.
“We understand technology because we grew up with it, but we also carry the responsibility to shape the laws that govern it,” he said.
He urged participants to translate discussions into concrete proposals for the AIPA General Assembly.
The Philippines hosted the meeting under the theme “ASEAN Youth: Strengthening Solidarity and Empowering Future-Ready Leaders,” highlighting the role of young parliamentarians in building a more inclusive and resilient Southeast Asia.