EDITORIAL - SK has become a liability

Since its inception almost two decades ago, the Sangguniang Kabataan has been faced with various controversies. Many lamented the fact that the organization has never lived up to the public’s expectation in developing the ability of young Filipinos.

The SK was established to tap the potential of the youth to make them partners in nation building. However, after its creation in early 1990s, SK has never been a force to reckon with as the nation strives hard to attain economic prosperity.  

The group instead has become a liability of local government units. In fact, many SK leaders were involved in various controversies, from corruption to illegal drugs. No wonder some quarters have called for its eventual abolition because it has already become counter-productive.    

Last year, two SK chairpersons in Cebu City tested positive for shabu in a drug test conducted by City Office for Substance Abuse Prevention. It was not known what sanctions the SK Federation had imposed on the two. It was, however, reported that such offense, based on the SK constitution, merits suspension or expulsion.

Just last week, four SK chairpersons in the city were ordered suspended for their unauthorized absences. SK chiefs Mary Jane Chua of Barangay Labangon, Orlane Quijada of Barangay Punta Princesa, Gracielle Therese Araw-araw of Barangay Poblacion Pardo and Jason Turno Jr. of Barangay Capitol Site are facing suspension for violating the constitution and by-laws of the SK Federation.  

Their sanction, according to SKF president John Philip Po, stemmed from their failure to attend regular meetings in their respective barangays.  As a result of their suspension, the four SK chairpersons will not receive their salaries for two months.

The youth organization is supposed to have a crucial role in helping shape our future leaders. In fact, the Philippines has been a model when it comes to active participation of the youth in government affairs.

But sometimes, early exposure has its own disadvantages. Twenty years are more than enough basis to judge how the SK fares in its mission to help the youth become more productive in society. But since feedback has been so far negative, it’s high time for the government to consider its abolition.