Sangguniang Kabataan was created because the Philippines recognizes the vital role of the

youth in nation-building. It was made to encourage youth’s involvement in public and civic
affairs.

I recently attended the two-day mandatory seminar for Sangguniang Kabataan Secretary
and Treasurer. We talked about five topics: Decentralization and Local Governance, SK
History and Salient Features, Meeting and Resolutions, Code of Conduct and Ethical
Standards, and SK Planning and Budgeting.

For me, the most important topic that we tackled is about the SK Planning and Budgeting.
We spent the second day formulating the Annual Barangay Youth Investment Plan.

How to make a Comprehensive Barangay Youth Development Plan:

1. First, before we decide to make any project, we need to be familiar with the
Philippine Youth Development Plan (PYDP). PYDP is a framework for unified action
among the youth and the youth serving groups, agencies, and institutions to
promote holistic youth participation in our society.
2. Second, we need to identify the issues in our Barangay. Identify the problems to be
addressed and think of possible solutions to that problem.
3. Lastly, allocate budget for the project or activity and make a schedule.

Sangguniang Kabataan Projects and Activities

These are the possible SK Projects and Activities according to the PYDP’s 9 Centers of
Youth Participation:

1. Health

• Free Zumba Classes

• Feeding Program
• Medical & Dental Mission
• Blood Drive
• Fun Run
• Seminar on How to Achieve Proper Nutrition
• Seminar about Sexual Reproductive Health
• Seminar about Mental Health
• Seminar on how to give First Aid
• Implement tighter measures to avoid the use of cigarettes and alcohol among youth
• Implement No-Smoking Policy in Public Places

2. Education

• Scholarships for the Indigent Youth

• Free School Supplies
• Free Printing in the Barangay
• Free Use of Computer (for project and homework)
• Seminar about Human Rights

3. Economic Empowerment

• Job Fair
• Livelihood Programs
• Seminar on How to Make an Effective Resume
 • Organize Youth Cooperatives

4. Social Inclusion and Equity

(This includes youth with specific needs, youth with disability, LGBTQ+)

• Ms. Gay
• Concert for a Cause
• Halloween Party / Christmas Party
• Basketball and Volleyball League for all
• Conduct Regular General Assembly of SK Officers and KK members

5. Peace Building and Security

(This includes youth in conflict with the law and drug dependent youth)

• Conduct Forums that address drug abuse

• Provide Employment to the Out of School Youth

6. Governance

• Make social media campaigns about the importance of voting

• Award Outstanding Youth in the Barangay
• Support the Non-Government Youth Organizations
• Report and Publish the Accomplishment Report of SK Officials

7. Active Citizenship

(This aims to encourage youth participation in activities)

• Parol Making Contest

• Mural Contest
• Battle of the Bands
• Sports League

8. Environment

• Sustainable Tree Planting

• Regular Clean Up Drive
• Distribution of Garbage Containers (infrastructure)
• Seminar about Proper Waste Management
• Eco Bricks Workshop
• Disaster Risk Reduction Management: Fire Drill, Earthquake Drill

9. Global Mobility

(This includes cross-border exchanges and activities, youth trafficking)

• Participate in ASEAN activities for youth

• Strengthen ties with Filipino Youth overseas using social media
• Seminar about Online Sexual Exploitation

SK Projects are not limited to Basketball Leagues! All the projects and activities above are my
personal suggestions. They are not mandated by the government. If you have any comments
or suggestions, feel free to write a comment below.