We always say that the young people are the hope of this country. The idea receives both local and international recognition. In fact, our Constitution recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation-building, promotes and protects their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual, and social well-being. Specifically, it stressed that our Government shall inculcate in the youth patriotism and nationalism, and encourage their involvement in public and civic affairs. This is precisely why we have SK (Sangguning Kabataan), to introduce to the young people to government service in local, provincial, and national levels.
Now it seems that our youth had gone astray. Massive calls for SK abolition flocks both in Congress and the Senate. Reasons for these calls, among others are due to SK’s failure to meet the demands expected from them. Proponents claimed that SK is becoming more dangerous than useful. To emphasize, SK has been breeding grounds for corruption. Our young leaders are mostly non-performing, or had contributed but piecemeal to our community. Their contributions if at all, do not commensurate to the heavy budget allocated to them by our national government. So it must be abolished?
The UNYAP do not withstand all observations of these proponents for abolition but we disagree in strongest terms that it is the proper way to address this issue. If the solution to a corrupt system is indeed to abolish it, then all the agencies and public offices of this country had long been gone. Instead, let us give concrete solutions to this predicament by identifying problems and giving concrete solutions. If it is claimed that SK is a breeding ground for corruption, it means that corruption is not inherent among them, rather are mere influence by a more corrupt system. Then let us move to clean this dust that triggers corruption. Who are corrupting them anyway? The old politicians who surprisingly are the same people moving for its abolition. If indeed SK officials are under performing their duties, then the problem lies in the implementation of its rules and regulations. Teach them. The solution therefore is a reform on our laws, a more effective mechanism that will fit in the demands of times. Reforms that are embodied in the SK reform bills by our youth advocate legislators.
Verily, despite the many challenges, the SK, an embodiment youth participation, is an institution worth continuously developing. Active participation in nation building is a right, rather than a mere privilege vested upon them by our most Supreme Constitution. It cannot lie on the mercy of selfish and sweeping generalizations. In legal contemplation, such a bold move is even unconstitutional. Abolishing the SK will defeat the very right of our youth guaranteed not just by our Constitution, but by the International Human Rights Law as well. The foundation of every state is the education of its youth, and education can only be achieved when it goes out beyond theories. Our youth needs support and understanding, rather than condemnation. For a child is spanked by his parents when he commits a mistake, and is never killed.
Prepared by Ms. Pearl Evardone – UNYAP Young Professional Network
