This study aimed to assess the level of core youth participation in the programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) initiated by the Local Government Unit (LGU) Santa Cruz. Specifically, it sought to determine the demographic profile of the respondents, the level and type of youth participation in the PPAs based on the Typology of Youth Participation and Empowerment (TYPE) Pyramid, the youth involvement across nine centers of participation, and the relationship between demographic profiles, type of youth participation, and levels of youth involvement. Methods: A Descriptive-Quantitative survey analysis design was employed, complemented by the Descriptive method of research. The study involved 297 core youth respondents aged 18 to 24 from Santa Cruz, Laguna, selected through Stratified Random Sampling. A structured questionnaire was used as the research instrument, which underwent rigorous content validation. Data were analyzed using frequency and percentage distribution, weighted mean, standard deviation, and Pearson-R product moment of correlation. Findings: The study revealed that youth aged 20 to 22 were most engaged, with a slight gender imbalance favoring females. Most respondents were In-of-School Youth (ISY), and there was robust participation across all types of youth-driven initiatives—Adult-Driven, Youth-Driven, and Youth-Adult Shared Control. Education, Active Citizenship, and Environment showed the highest levels of youth involvement, while areas like Health, Economic Empowerment, and Governance displayed moderate engagement. Significant relationships were found between demographic profiles, type of youth participation, and levels of youth involvement across various centers. Conclusions: Contrary to the hypotheses, demographic profiles and types of youth participation significantly influenced youth engagement across different program areas. The study highlighted the need for inclusive strategies tailored to specific demographic groups, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach that ensures youth voices are heard and valued. Recommendations: Based on the studys findings, recommendations include enhancing the Youth-Adult Partnership, creating tailored engagement programs for demographic groups with lower participation, establishing youth councils for leadership development, and offering training and mentorship programs. Initiatives such as a Youth Innovation Fund, diversifying sports programs, and collaborating with educational institutions are suggested to boost youth involvement. Supporting youth-led environmental projects, promoting active citizenship, and providing entrepreneurship support are also highlighted. Strategies should be age-specific, and dedicated youth-friendly spaces should be established. Lastly, a continuous monitoring and evaluation system is advised to assess and improve program effectiveness.

Youth

Core Youth

Participation

Involvement

Youth-Adult Shared Control

Youth-Adult Partnership