Aquino urged to certify SK Reform bill as 'urgent'

MANILA, Philippines - The National Youth Commission (NYC) is urging President Benigno S. Aquino III to certify the consolidated Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Reform Bill as "urgent."

The NYC said failure to pass the bill into law would mean going back to the former structure of the SK, which has been criticized for being a breeding ground for corrupt future politicians and political dynasties.

"We are recommending that the president affirms the urgency of this much needed reform for our youth," NYC Chairperson Gio Tingson said as reported by state-run Philippine News Agency.

"We have the full support of the reform-minded young Filipinos. Our lawmakers should realize how much young people want and need the bill passed," Tingson added.

The SK Reform Bill also known as the "Youth Development and Empowerment Act of 2014" was consolidated by a Senate committee on August 10, months after the postponement of the SK elections.

The consolidated bill contains changes in the existing structure of the SK including provisions on eligibility, powers and key functions of the system.

The Commission on Elections has reset the SK election on Feb. 21, 2015. - Louis Bacani