By El Amigo
MANILA — DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla has proposed lowering the age eligibility for Sangguniang Kabataan officials to 15 to 19, arguing that the youth council should remain representative of the young people it serves.
During Thursday’s Senate budget hearing, Remulla said the existing 18-to-29 age range could allow individuals who are already employed or raising families to hold positions intended to represent younger constituents.
He said restoring the previous age range would help ensure SK officials remain active within their communities and more closely understand the concerns of the youth.
Remulla also questioned the wide gap between the responsibilities of SK officials and other local government positions while noting that the minimum age to run for governor is 23.
Beyond eligibility, the DILG secretary said the financial authority of SK councils should also be reviewed. He expressed concern that some youth officials may lack sufficient experience to manage public funds independently and could be vulnerable to outside influence.
The issue of SK accountability has also drawn attention following disciplinary action against two Makati City SK chairpersons. The city council suspended them in separate cases involving alleged misconduct, including a claimed demand for a supplier kickback and the use of documents with forged signatures.
Remulla said any reforms should preserve youth participation while ensuring that those elected genuinely represent the sector and are equipped to responsibly handle public resources.
Separately, he announced that the DILG plans to speed up the implementation of early childhood care and development programs through local government units.
A proposed feeding initiative will provide prepacked ready-to-eat meals for children aged five and below, which Remulla said could help control costs and provide more consistent nutrition.
The DILG, as ex-officio co-chairperson of the ECCD Council under Republic Act 12199, will coordinate with LGUs on nutrition, early education and other child-development programs.
ia/xf
