The author posing the question “Can Generational Movements End Systemic Corruption?” echoed Professor Randy David, who wisely stated: “Anger alone will not save us. But if it is turned into vigilance, solidarity, and the courage to imagine a different politics, then this moment of fury may yet become the beginning of something better.” The session awakened heightened awareness among participants, sparking a resolve for vigilance, action, and transformation—as evidenced by the forum evaluations completed afterward.

A Coalition of Like-minded Leaders

The forum demonstrated what becomes possible when institutions choose collaboration and networking to advocate for good governance, transparency, leadership with integrity, and unblemished public service.

Baguio Central University, under President Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera and VP for Academic Affairs Dr. Elma D. Donaal, International Relations Officer Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang spearheaded this initiative. The university joined forces with a diverse coalition of partners: the World University Network of Innovation for Leaders (WUNI-L) represented by Dr. Sonny Soriano and Dr. Robert Frederick Hayden, Humanists Nepal, Urdaneta City University, Indonesia’s State University of Malang and Universitas Islam Bandung, Tarlac Agricultural University, the World Humanist Forum (represented by Javier Tolcachier from Argentina, Antonio Carvallo from the UK, and Dorothy Adenga from Kenya), Pressenza International Press Agency, and the Philippines’ Commission on Higher Education-Cordillera Administrative Region.

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong—himself recognized as an anti-corruption champion—lent institutional support and moral authority to the proceedings as the resource speaker.

Gabriel Hyunwoo Chong, an American Peace Corps volunteer from California, moderated the forum. A clear pattern emerged across testimonies from speakers representing three nations: Gen Z refuses to accept corruption as an inevitable reality. Instead, they resolved to remain vigilant and vocal, committing to document anomalies and report their findings to future forums. This momentum gained further support when Javier Tolcachier proposed the creation of a dedicated Gen Z Table within the World Humanist Forum (WHF).

What Participants Learned

Participants shared what they learned from speakers representing three nations: Raghu Ghimire and Tulsi Maya Sigdel (Nepal), Prof. Tasya Aspiranti and Surya Desismansyah Eka Putra (Indonesia), and Mayor Benjamin Magalong (Philippines).

Walter S. Crisostomo captured a fundamental shift in consciousness: “I learned that ending systemic corruption is not just about changing leaders, but about transforming mindsets and empowering the youth to demand integrity and accountability.” This was not an isolated insight—it echoed other participants’ reflections.

Andrelyn B. Gayudan recognized the marathon nature of the work ahead. She echoed one of the speaker’s message: “Ending systemic corruption is not something that can be achieved overnight or by one generation alone. It requires continuous awareness, courage, and cooperation across all levels of society.” Yet she found hope in observing “how young people in Nepal, Indonesia, and the Philippines are becoming more active in questioning unfair systems.”

Ronnie L. Manzano dove into the structural analysis: “Corruption is not only a political problem but also a moral and social issue deeply embedded in the structures of governance and culture. It erodes trust, weakens institutions, and deprives citizens of opportunities for genuine progress.” His reflections synthesized lessons from all three countries, noting how Generation Z demonstrated they are “empowered, technologically adept, and morally grounded citizens capable of initiating meaningful change.”

From Nepal, participants learned about digital democracy and virtual mobilization through platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X. Indonesia revealed how digital solidarity and ethical conviction could unify groups against long-standing systems of political patronage. The Philippines showed how moral conviction distinguishes this generation—they speak of corruption “not as inevitable but as a moral choice that can be resisted.”

Analyn A. Chagao synthesized a critical insight: “Generational movements can ignite powerful waves of change against systemic corruption. But generational change must be paired with institutional reform, civic education, and accountability mechanisms—otherwise, the cycle continues.”

Arlene Dumlao expressed:

“My appreciation was ignited by Ms. Tulsi Maya Sigdel’s explanation of Nepal’s situation. As an outsider, I may not fully grasp how protests took root there, but learning about the youth-led, self-motivated uprising convinced me of its evident power—strong enough to uproot the corruption already identified within government structures.

Prof. Dr. Tasya Aspiranti was equally inspiring. She highlighted Indonesians’ collective efforts to secure justice not only for Affan Kurniawan and his tragic fate, but also to unite as one force capable of changing leadership directions.

For the Philippines, Mayor Benjamin Magalong exemplified the anti-corruption call. In a country where the public often questions integrity, his story says it all. I admire the bravery that cost him ranks and promotions. His words are anchored in service to the people, and a great man like him cannot be silenced. It is worthy to join his call to stop corruption. Our generation can support the vast Gen Z population, and when we work together, we can minimize the agonies of those abused by corruption.”

What Inspired Them: Youth Leading with Courage

Maybeline F. Nacis was struck by “the guiding principle that good governance requires moral courage: it begins when people stop asking ‘what’s safe’ and start asking ‘what is right.'”

Blessie Cayasen appreciated learning about solidarity-building and good governance, noting that change “requires moral courage” and “the importance of collaboration.” One speaker’s words resonated deeply with her: “If we can’t do it now, who will do it? And if not now, when?”

What moved Satur C. Bacdayan Jr. most was the forum’s call to recognize “the people as Human Person”—putting human dignity at the heart of leadership and governance as the starting point for ending corruption. He noted how “the different protests and violence that transpired in Nepal, Indonesia, and Philippines is a strong call to start determining the causes of the wounds and to start healing the wounded heart of the nations.”

Crisostomo found himself “connected to a larger Asian movement for justice and good governance,” inspired by speakers who “shared how their people turned frustration into meaningful reform.” Their passion proved that “hope can thrive even in the toughest environments.”

Andrelyn Gayudan celebrated “the hope that the younger generation brings. In a time when corruption often feels normal or unavoidable, it is inspiring to see how young people are breaking that mindset.” Through social media movements, volunteer work, and community initiatives, they demonstrate that “integrity still matters.”

What They Long For: A Moral Imperative

The aspirations voiced by participants revealed determination. Crisostomo articulated a vision shared by many: “I long for a generation of Filipinos who will continue what these movements have started—fearless, ethical, and committed to transparency in every sector of society…More than anything, I long for a time when integrity becomes the norm, not the exception, and where every citizen proudly becomes a guardian of good governance.”

 Maybeline Nacis framed her aspiration systemically: “A global transformation led by youth, resulting in a system with accountable, value-based leadership committed to integrity and social justice.”

Andrelyn Gayudan’s longing captured the cultural shift required: “I long for a time when honesty becomes part of our everyday culture, not just something we expect from others, but something we live by ourselves.” She hopes for “leaders who lead with sincerity and citizens who never lose hope that a clean, just, and accountable system can truly exist.”

Analyn Chagao envisioned “a generation that not only demands change but also practices integrity in everyday life…young leaders who transform the system from within—by being honest, transparent, and accountable in their actions.” She believes change begins “when a generation not only protests corruption but also chooses to live differently.”

Ronnie Manzano’s comprehensive vision integrated educational reform: “Schools and universities must continue to impart academic knowledge, instill moral discipline, critical thinking, and a strong sense of civic duty.” As an educator, he longs for continuity of international dialogues that “cultivate awareness, empathy, and solidarity among citizens of the world.”

Blessie Cayasen committed to practical action: fighting corruption through education, promoting transparency, supporting integrity in leadership, raising awareness, being honest “even in small things,” and speaking up when it matters.

The Path Forward: From Forum to Movement

Dr. Robert Frederick Hayden, WUNI-L President, delivered closing remarks urging participants from across continents to continue leading with integrity and good example. Dorothy Adenga of Kenya made a powerful request that exemplified the forum’s ripple effect: she asked that African nations be given opportunities to present their own anti-corruption experiences and strategies at future forums. Her voice represented countless others across the Global South recognizing this as a universal struggle.

Javier Tolcachier proposed concrete next steps: “We propose to place a thematic table of Generation Z within the World Humanist Forum. We invite those of you who are interested to the next Assembly of the Forum, where this thematic table could be started, alongside with all the other thematic tables that are already underway.” The Assembly is scheduled for December 6-7, 2025.

Mayor Magalong’s challenge echoed through all 281 reflections: “Silence should no longer be an option. It is not neutrality. It is complicity and tolerance. We must speak up, and we cannot afford to be stopped now.”

Satur Bacdayan captured the collective commitment: “Let us continue to keep the fire of ending corruption burning in our hearts as citizens of the world…I hope there will be more activities that will bring awareness to the world.”

Anti-Corruption as Peace Work: The Advocacy Continues

The forum achieved something rare: it transformed abstract discourse into personal conviction. Two hundred eighty-one individuals didn’t just learn about corruption’s structural roots—they committed to becoming part of the solution. They learned to use knowledge as a weapon, to vote wisely, to exhibit humanist values, to lead by example, and to practice patience while refusing to stay silent.

As we document this contemporary history, we understand that real change happens in daily decisions—when we choose vigilance over complacency, solidarity over isolation, and courage over fear. The seeds have been planted across continents. The work of cultivation—patient, persistent, and purposeful—now begins.

This forum marked not an ending, but a call to action for a global generation refusing to accept that corruption defines governance. They have chosen to become guardians of good governance, champions of integrity in leadership, and exemplars of moral ascendancy. The journey continues. Join us for the next series.