The countdown to the 2026 JCI World Congress in Clark officially kicked off in style as Junior Chamber International (JCI) Philippines rolled out a high-profile welcome during the JCI Asia-Pacific Conference in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
JCI Philippines, together with JCI Manila and JCI Angeles City Culiat, hosted an exclusive VIP luncheon at the Juulchin Grand Ballroom, drawing over 150 chief delegates and national presidents from across Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Africa.
The event, held in the sidelines of the regional conference, wasn’t just about fine dining—it was a bold invitation to the world to set their sights on Clark for what promises to be one of JCI’s most dynamic global gatherings in recent memory.
Among the notable attendees were JCI President Keisuke Shimoyamada, Executive Vice President Mark Joseph David, JCI Philippines National President Felix Venson “Thirdy” Chua, and JCI Mongolia National President Munkhbat Chinbat.
During the luncheon, 2026 JCI World Congress Director Luis Angelo “LA” Sevilla offered delegates a sneak peek into what to expect from the Clark congress: a powerful blend of leadership development, cross-cultural exchange, and unforgettable Filipino hospitality.
“This luncheon was our way of extending a personal invitation to our JCI brothers and sisters across the region,” Sevilla said. “We’re putting together a dynamic program filled with meaningful activities that celebrate leadership, collaboration, and culture.”
The 2026 JCI World Congress is expected to draw more than 5,000 delegates from all corners of the globe, a feat that underscores both the scale of the event and the strategic importance of the Philippines in the international JCI network.
Set for November 11 to 15, 2026, the congress will turn Clark, Pampanga into a global stage for young leaders aiming to exchange ideas and chart solutions to pressing global issues—from youth employment and innovation to sustainability and inclusive growth.
The upcoming event also seeks to reignite the energy of the 1998 JCI World Congress, the last time the Philippines hosted the prestigious affair, which was hailed for its warmth, cultural flair, and impactful programming.
Clark’s selection as host city is a testament to the area’s growing profile as a prime convention and tourism destination in Southeast Asia, with modern infrastructure, direct international connectivity, and proximity to historical and leisure attractions.
For JCI Philippines, this isn’t just about logistics—it’s about legacy.
“Hosting the 2026 Congress is more than a milestone,” said JCI Manila Vice President for International Affairs Miguel Ortigas. “It’s our opportunity to showcase how Filipino leadership can build bridges across borders and spark meaningful change in today’s fractured world.”
In recent years, JCI World Congresses have featured high-level dialogues with industry leaders, youth forums on climate and tech, and immersive cultural showcases—from Leipzig to Yokohama to Johannesburg—cementing its reputation as a breeding ground for emerging global changemakers.
The Clark edition promises no less, with planned sessions on sustainable enterprise, digital diplomacy, and creative leadership, alongside cultural nights spotlighting Filipino heritage, food, and music.
Backed by JCI’s core mission to develop young leaders for a changing world, the 2026 congress is expected to inject fresh energy into the post-pandemic recovery of both the local economy and youth-driven global engagement.
JCI Manila, one of the organizations spearheading the congress, has been a pillar in leadership development in the Philippines since its founding in 1947.
Now 600 members strong, JCI Manila continues to run programs in community development, governance, entrepreneurship, and the environment—all driven by a singular goal: to create lasting positive change.
For Clark, hosting the World Congress will not only boost tourism and investment—it’s a chance to write a new chapter in the Philippines’ role in shaping tomorrow’s leaders.
As JCI chapters around the world book their flights and prep their delegations, one message is clear: the world is coming to Clark, and the Philippines is ready to lead.