The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) is the youth council in each barangay, created to implement programs for youth development.
Composed of elected youth aged 18 to 24 and led by a chairperson and councilors, the SK makes sure that active youth participation in governance.
Guided by Republic Act No. 10742, it promotes independence from political dynasties and collaborates with the Local Youth Development Council (LYDC) to address broader youth concerns.

What is the Sangguniang Kabataan?
The Sangguniang Kabataan is the youth council in each barangay, the smallest administrative division in the Philippines.
It is designed to promote the development and implementation of programs and activities that address the needs of the youth.
The SK is composed of eight members: one chairperson and seven councilors elected by the Katipunan ng Kabataan (Youth Federation).
Additionally, a secretary and a treasurer are appointed by the SK chairperson.

Qualifications for SK Members
To be eligible for an elected or appointed position in the SK, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Be a resident of the barangay for at least one year prior to the elections.
- Be between 18 and 24 years old on or before election day.
- Be able to read and write in Filipino, English, or the local dialect.
- Not be related to any incumbent elected official, either local or national, up to the second degree of consanguinity.
This last point is a significant provision against political dynasties, making sure that the SK remains independent and free from undue influence.
The Role of Katipunan ng Kabataan
The Katipunan ng Kabataan (KK) is an important component of the SK structure.
It comprises barangay residents aged 15 to 30 who have lived in the barangay for at least six months and are registered voters or listed in the SK Secretary’s records.
The KK serves as the highest policy-making body, deciding on matters that affect the youth in the barangay.
Members of the KK are required to meet at least once every six months to discuss and make decisions on important issues.
Meetings can also be called by the SK Chairperson or through a written petition by at least one-twentieth of its members.
Functions and Responsibilities of the SK
Once elected, SK officials have responsibilities similar to those of the barangay council, but with a focus on youth-related concerns.
They must undergo training programs before assuming office so that they are well-prepared for their roles.
Sangguniang Kabataan officers are also authorized to sign government contracts, making them accountable for the use of their funds.
The SK receives 10% of the barangay’s general fund, which must be used exclusively for youth development efforts.
Furthermore, the SK chairperson from each barangay becomes a member of the local Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang Kabataan (Federation of Youth Councils).
Duties of SK Officials
The SK Chairperson has several key duties:
- Call and preside over all meetings of the Katipunan ng Kabataan and the SK.
- Implement policies, programs, and projects within their jurisdiction in coordination with the Sangguniang Barangay.
- Supervise the affairs and activities of the leadership and the conduct of its members.
- Appoint the secretary and treasurer, with the SK’s concurrence.
- Perform other duties as prescribed by law or ordinance.
The SK Secretary is responsible for keeping all records, preparing minutes of meetings, and handling forms necessary for registrations, elections, and other activities.
The SK Treasurer manages SK property and funds, collects contributions, disburses funds according to the approved budget, and submits detailed financial reports.
Local Youth Development Council (LYDC)
A notable addition under the SK Reform Act is the creation of the Local Youth Development Council (LYDC).
The LYDC comprises representatives from local youth and youth-serving organizations at the provincial, city, and municipal levels.
Its primary task is to assist the SK and the Pederasyon in planning and executing projects and programs.
This council ascertains that youth development programs are well-coordinated and effectively implemented across different areas.
The Importance of RA 10742
The SK Reform Act of 2015 marks a significant shift in how youth involvement in local governance is perceived and practiced.
By addressing issues of corruption and political dynasties, the law aims to create a more transparent and accountable system.
It also emphasizes the importance of youth participation in governance, empowering young Filipinos to take an active role in their communities.

Encouraging Active Participation
As the SK and barangay elections approach, it is important for eligible youth to register and exercise their right to vote.
Active participation in these elections can lead to meaningful changes in local communities.
By electing competent and dedicated youth leaders, the barangay can ascertain that the needs and concerns of the younger population are addressed.
What’s New during the 2023 BSKE
- Manual Voting: The BSKE will primarily use manual voting, with pilot tests for Automated Barangay and SK Elections in select barangays.
- Pilot Testing: Automated voting will be tested in Barangays Paliparan III (Dasmariñas City, Cavite) and Bgy. Pasong Tamo (Quezon City 6th District).
- Mall Voting: For the first time, mall voting will be implemented, allowing registered voters to cast their ballots in designated malls.

Considerations when Choosing an SK Officer
The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officers hold important roles in shaping the future of their communities, serving as the bridge between the youth and local governance.
While these young leaders bring fresh perspectives and energy, it is essential to recognize that they are often new to taking on significant leadership responsibilities.
Competence and Qualifications
When selecting SK officers, it is imperative to choose candidates who are not only competent but also possess the right qualifications and a proven track record.
These young leaders should demonstrate the ability to serve effectively, prioritizing the needs of the youth at the grassroots level.
Their competence will make sure that they can handle the responsibilities and challenges that come with their roles.
Ethical Conduct
SK officers should embody the highest standards of ethical conduct, upholding public interest over personal gain.
They must act with professionalism, fairness, sincerity, and political neutrality.
It is imperative that they steer clear of illegal activities, such as drug involvement, which can tarnish their credibility and undermine the trust placed in them by their constituents.
Creativity and Innovation
Youth leaders are expected to bring a sense of creativity and resourcefulness to their positions.
SK officers should be able to develop and implement innovative projects and programs that address the unique needs of the youth in their communities.
Their ability to think outside the box can lead to impactful projects that foster development and engagement among young people.
Motivation and Commitment
Intrinsic motivation and a genuine desire to serve are ideal attributes for SK officers.
Candidates should exhibit a strong commitment to public service, demonstrating dedication and devotion to their duties.
This commitment influences how seriously they take their responsibilities and their overall effectiveness as leaders.
Accountability and Transparency
Accountability is a cornerstone of effective leadership.
SK officers should be accountable to the Katipunan ng Kabataan (KK), the body they serve, by regularly consulting them on programs and activities.
Transparency in their actions and decisions is essential, and they should provide annual performance reports that are accessible to the public.
This openness fosters trust and makes sure that they remain answerable to their constituents.
Recent Updates
Empowering SK Treasurers in Cordillera Region
Over 1,038 SK Treasurers from the Cordillera Region joyfully participated in a 2-day Basic Bookkeeping Course under the TESDA Online Program (TOP) on January 27 and 28.
A total of 37,608 appointed Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) treasurers have received training in the Basic Bookkeeping Course under TESDA’s online program, mandated by Republic Act No. 10742. The course covers essential topics such as Journalizing Transactions, Basic Financial Statements, Advanced Journal Entries, and Financial Statement Analysis, equipping SK treasurers with the necessary skills for financial management.
Video: Ano nga ba ang tungkulin ng Sangguniang Kabataan o SK? | Facts Talk: Balita Ko
Discover the responsibilities of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) in the #BalitaKo segment by Nico Waje. Uncover the true duties and functions of the SK beyond sports leagues, dance contests, and pageants.
Conclusion
The Sangguniang Kabataan, under the guidance of RA 10742, provides a platform for young Filipinos to engage in public service and governance.
This reform aims to eliminate corruption and foster a new generation of leaders who are dedicated to community development and youth empowerment.
Understanding the roles and responsibilities of SK officials, as well as the structure of the KK and LYDC, is essential for making informed decisions during elections.
Through active participation and continuous improvement of the electoral system, the SK can truly serve its purpose in shaping the future of the Philippines.