Introduction:

Public officials today work in a world where problems are always changing and they have to

consider both their own communities and the whole world (Bice et. Al., 2007). They face big, urgent

challenges, like climate change, keeping people healthy during a time of increased migration,

protecting our country, fighting terrorism, and dealing with financial crises that affect many

countries. Many of the decisions public officials make in their own areas can have significant effects

on other parts of the world. These challenges, both urgent and multifaceted, necessitate a multi-level

approach for effective resolution (Bice et. Al., 2007) . Public service is not just about fulfilling legal

obligations, but also about fostering a sense of community, promoting social responsibility, and

creating a better future for all (UNICEF, 2007). According to Bice and Sullivan (2007), how well

public officials can handle these new problems depends a lot on the education they get. The training

they receive needs to do two things: prepare them to deal with big challenges, but also make sure

they can do the everyday tasks of their jobs.

In the Philippines, the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), or the Village Youth Council, stands as a

crucial pillar in the democratic framework of the country, serving as a platform for youth

participation in local governance. Since the establishment of the SK with the passage of the Local

Government Code in 1991 (Republic Act 7160), it has aimed to empower young people, harnessing

their voices and actions to contribute to nation-building, specifically for individuals of 15 to 17 (De

Jesus, 2022). However, the SK's journey has been marked by both successes and challenges, leading

to ongoing discussions about its effectiveness and relevance.

The SK's roots can be traced back to the Kabataang Barangay (KB), established in 1975

(Presidential Decree 684) during the Marcos regime. While the KB aimed to empower youth, it was

often used as a tool to strengthen the Marcos regime's political control (Tanvir, 2014). The

restoration of democracy in 1986 brought about a shift towards a more inclusive and participatory

approach to governance, with the 1987 Philippine Constitution laying the groundwork for a more
democratic and decentralized system (Tanvir, 2014). This paved the way for the Local Government

Code of 1991 (Republic Act 7160), which replaced the KB with the SK, aiming to give young people

a genuine voice in their communities (Tanvir, 2014).

Despite its noble intentions, the SK has faced significant challenges and criticisms throughout

its existence. Allegations of corruption, political patronage, and a lack of genuine youth

empowerment have cast a shadow on the institution (UNICEF, 2007). Studies conducted by

UNICEF (2007) revealed weaknesses in the SK's implementation, particularly in areas such as

legislation, reporting, and meaningful consultation with youth constituents. Furthermore, concerns

have been raised about the SK's ability to address the most pressing needs of youth, with many

projects focusing on sports and infrastructure rather than education, health, and livelihood (UNICEF,

2007).

In response to these criticisms, the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Act of 2015 (Republic Act

No. 10742) was enacted, aiming to address issues of corruption and improve the SK's effectiveness.

However, the SK elections scheduled for 2013 were postponed due to ongoing debates about the

SK's future (Tanvir, 2014). This postponement provided an opportunity for further assessment and

discussion of the SK's role and potential for reform.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further compounded the challenges faced by the SK.

Restrictions on gatherings and mobility have significantly hampered the SK's ability to implement

programs and engage with youth (Talabis et al., 2021). Studies have shown that the pandemic has led

to a decline in youth participation in SK activities, highlighting the need for innovative and adaptive

strategies to address the new realities of the pandemic (De Jesus, 2022).

While existing studies have delved into the performances, effectiveness, and challenges faced

by SK officials, they often fall short of presenting a comprehensive picture of their achievements and

the strategies they employ to overcome obstacles. These studies often focus on the shortcomings of

the Sangguniang Kabataan, leaving a gap in understanding how SK officials navigate these
challenges and contribute to their communities. This lack of focus on success stories limits our

understanding of the SK's potential and hinders the identification of best practices

As students taking up Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Social Studies, the

researchers intend to conduct a study that delves deeper into the successes of Sangguniang Kabataan

(SK) officials and the strategies and methods that they used to achieve positive outcomes in their

communities, despite the obstacles they faced. By highlighting these success stories, the researchers

aim to provide a more balanced and nuanced understanding of the SK’s potential and to identify best

practices that can be used as a guide by other SK officials.

References:

 Alampay, E., & Angeles, L. (2012, June). Engaging the Youth for Development: Differences
among SK-leaders and their constituents.

 Balanon, F., Ong, M., Torre, B., Puzon, M., Granada, J., & Trinidad, A. (2007). The Impact of
Youth Participation in the Local Government Process.

 De Jesus, F. (2022). Implementation Of Powers And Functions Of Sangguniang Kabataan

 Talabis, D. A. S., Babierra, A. L., Buhat, C. A. H., Lutero, D. S., Quindala III, K. M., &
Rabajante, J. F. (2021). Local government responses for COVID-19 management in the
Philippines.

 Tanvir, C. C. (2014). Filipino Youth in Local Governance: The Sangguniang Kabataan in Crisis.

 UNICEF. (2007). The Impact of Youth Participation in the Local Government Process: The
Sangguniang Kabataan Experience. Makati City, Philippines: UNICEF

 Bice, S., Coates, H. (2007) Public Servants for All Places: Competencies, Skills, and
Experiences in a Globalized Policy Environment.