Kabataan para sa TB-Free Philippines
About Us
Younite Philippines is a bold youth-led movement dedicated to ending tuberculosis (TB) in the country. As part of the global YOUNITE network, we believe that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow but the driving force of today. We recognize that the youth are the future of healthcare and their voices, ideas, and actions are key to building a TB-free Philippines.
Mission
To empower young Filipinos to take the lead in the fight against TB through advocacy, innovation, education, and community-driven action. We aim to transform passion into purpose and purpose into impact.
Vision
A TB-free Philippines powered by the leadership of the youth breaking stigma, saving lives, and shaping a stronger healthier future for all.
STEERING COMMITTEE
Joegene "Joi" Mangilaya
Joegene "Joi" Mangilaya, 33, is a multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) survivor and dedicated TB advocate from the Philippines. After being misdiagnosed and facing a difficult treatment journey, he became one of the first in the country to complete the shorter, all-oral BPaL regimen in 2022. Now cured, Joi works with TBPeople Philippines, the TB Alliance, and leads Younite Philippines as acting President. He uses his voice to inspire hope, push for better TB care, and empower fellow survivors.
Angel Luz Mangilaya
Angel Luz Mangilaya, 22 years old, and a cousin of Joegene Mangilaya. I’ve been a close contact since I was 19, supporting his treatment journey in Cebu City where he was diagnosed with MDR-TB. I served as his caregiver—assisting him at home, accompanying him to the hospital for check-ups, medication, and during his hospitalization. Because I witnessed the challenges of TB firsthand, both for patients and close contacts like me, I am now advocating to help those affected by TB in our communities.
Mariane Alexa C. Buma-a
I'm Mariane Alexa C. Buma-a, 18 years old, a BSBA Marketing Management student at Universidad De Manila (UDM). I’m a tuberculosis survivor, diagnosed in 2023. It was a tough journey—taking daily medication and managing my health—but with my family’s support, I completed treatment in September 2023. My experience with TB made me stronger and taught me patience and resilience.
Joseph G. Notarion Jr.
Joseph G. Notarion Jr., 28 years old from Doong, Bantayan, Cebu. A former MDR-TB patient who battled severe complications, including being bedridden for 5 years. With unwavering help from Dr. Samantha Tinsay and his family, Joseph survived TB and is now regaining his strength. He works again in seaweed farming and advocates for TB awareness, hoping to meet Dr. Tinsay in person to express his gratitude.
Christian Daryll E. Olarte
Christian Daryll E. Olarte, 30 years old, from Davao City. I work as a Medical Equipment Service Engineer. In 2019, my mother was diagnosed with tuberculosis. As her close contact, I witnessed the stigma and emotional toll TB brings. That experience opened my eyes and fueled my passion for TB advocacy—raising awareness, promoting early detection, and fighting the stigma. I believe that through education and compassion, we can build a healthier and more informed community.
Neña Rose "Neña" Embaan
Neña Rose "Neña" Embaan, 34, is a TB survivor and advocate currently studying at DACI Bible School. A full-time housewife turned changemaker, Neña was inspired to join the TB movement after witnessing her mother’s battle with multidrug-resistant TB. Diagnosed herself in February 2019—and continuing treatment while pregnant—she completed her medication in November of the same year. Her experience strengthened her commitment to raise awareness, share truthful information, and support others facing TB with hope and compassion.
Jerome D. Francisco
Jerome D. Francisco, 20, is an MDR-TB survivor and youth advocate from the Philippines. A BSBA Marketing Management student at Universidad de Manila, Jerome was diagnosed with TB at just 17 and endured years of treatment before being declared cured in March 2023. Now thriving, he uses his voice as a member of TBPeople Philippines to raise awareness, promote early detection, and advocate for the rights of TB patients. Jerome is committed to inspiring fellow youth to stay strong, speak up, and take action in the fight to end TB.
Ruzzeth Joy Alere
Ruzzeth Joy Alere, 31, is a TB and COVID-19 survivor from Valenzuela City and a proud mother of three. Diagnosed with drug-susceptible TB in 2021 during the height of the pandemic, she faced her treatment while also protecting her children with TB preventive therapy. With guidance from fellow advocates, she completed her medication and recovered fully. Today, Ruzzeth uses her experience to support and encourage others affected by TB, especially fellow mothers.
OBJECTIVE
Share TB Journeys to Reduce Stigma:Create safe spaces for individuals and communities to share their experiences with TB, fostering empathy and understanding to break the silence and reduce stigma associated with the disease.
Raise Awareness about TB: Promote accurate knowledge about tuberculosis, its prevention, symptoms, and treatment through community outreach, educational campaigns, and digital platforms to empower youth and communities to act against TB.
Eliminate Stigma at Every Level: Develop and implement youth-led initiatives that challenge and dismantle stigma and discrimination faced by individuals affected by TB in social, institutional, and health care settings.
Advocate for Youth Involvement in TB Policy and Investment: Engage and amplify youth voices in policy discussions, decision-making processes, and resource allocation for TB responses, ensuring young people play a central role in shaping an equitable TB-free future.
Build Capacity of Young Leaders: Empower youth champions and advocates with the necessary skills, knowledge, and tools to lead impactful TB elimination efforts at local, regional, and national levels.
Address
Municipality of Tupi, South Cotabato, Soccsksargen, Mindanao, Philippines, Southeast Asia, Asia
Phone
+63 921 811 6214