Footprints of the faith among Filipino youth: five hundred years and moving forward

This article examines Filipino youth’s perspectives on faith and religion in relation to their readiness to undertake an “evangelizing mission” in both strict and broad senses. The study is contextualized within the quincentennial commemoration of Christianity in the Philippines and the country’s identity as the oldest Christian nation in the Asia-Pacific region - a status described by successive Popes as one of “evangelizing responsibility.” Survey findings indicate that Filipino youth are generally theistic, prayer-oriented, and, among Christian respondents, engaged or at least open to Scripture. Catholic participants demonstrate sacramental awareness. Nevertheless, the data reveal limitations in doctrinal formation and catechetical depth, suggesting that their potential as agents of evangelization requires further development in theological literacy and faith coherence on key issues addressed in the study.