MAKATI, Philippines (June 2026) : Young Pinoys are often called the hope of the fatherland, but when it comes to local governance, many wonder if the system is doing more harm than good.
The future of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) took center stage at the latest Manila Calling forum held on June 19 at Crisostomo in One Ayala. Titled “Ayusin o Tapusin: The Sangguniang Kabataan Debate,” the event gathered policymakers and young leaders to figure out if the youth council should be saved or scrapped. Organized by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Philippines, the program provided a comprehensive look at both the structural flaws and the untapped potential of these councils.
A system under fire
The SK has faced heavy criticism lately. Issues like low attendance, high resignation rates, and cases of financial mismanagement have left people questioning its credibility. Leon Flores III from the Ateneo School of Government noted that the council is caught between promise and problems, struggling with structural flaws that might be more than just growing pains. Daniela Braun, country director of KAS Philippines, noted that the forum aims to provide timely insights on these domestic issues. For many, the central question is whether the SK is still serving its original purpose in the community.
Real-world struggles on the ground
Young officials on the panel argued that the problem is not a lack of passion, but a lack of preparation. Keil Custillas, president of the SK Federation of Pasig City, and John Andrian Tejido, chairperson of Barangay GSIS in San Pedro City, shared their experiences regarding the lack of resources and training provided to them. Jerome Jogno, senior program manager of KAS Philippines, led a discussion on how to strengthen youth participation without resorting to abolition. The consensus was clear: the passion is there, but the national government and local communities must bridge the gap between what they expect from young leaders and the actual support they provide. Lois Conrad Salumbides, secretary of the Sangguniang Bayan of Lucban, wrapped up the program by highlighting the importance of continuous institutional support to ensure these councils can thrive.
