SK compensation bill to attract more youth into public service

MANILA – Various Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials and youth leaders on Monday said the measure providing additional benefits for SK officials would encourage and empower more youth to be involved in public service as future leaders of the country.

The Sangguniang Kabataan ng Pilipinas made the statement as they lauded the ratification of the congressional bicameral conference report of House Bill 10698 and Senate Bill 2124, more commonly known as the SK Empowerment and Compensation bills.

“Providing additional privileges such as honorarium and civil service eligibility to all SK officials, including the Secretary and Treasurer, not only benefits the Sangguniang Kabataan themselves but the communities they serve,” the statement read.

The group said the passage of the SK Compensation bill also highlights the importance of having a genuine youth representation in Congress and in all public political processes to support youth-related measures.

They urged President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to immediately sign the bill into law upon transmission to its office to fast-track its implementation.

“We vow to continue doing our best to serve the people and the nation. Long live the Filipino Youth,” they said.

House Bill 10698 grants SK kagawads honoraria, allowances, and appropriate certificates of civil service eligibility.

The reform also expands the functions of SKs to include skills training, youth employment, environmental protection, values education, and other programs specific to the vulnerabilities affecting young people.

It also mandates that the SK treasurer must have a background in finance or accounting.

The reform also requires that each local government unit appoints a local youth development officer to coordinate SK efforts.