The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials serve as youth representatives within local government units (LGUs). They are responsible for planning and implementing programs that benefit the youth in their communities.
SK officials receive an honorarium instead of a fixed salary, with the SK chairperson earning around ₱7,900 per month, which can rise to ₱12,700 in more affluent barangays.
SK members earn approximately ₱5,900 monthly.
It covers their honoraria, privileges such as PhilHealth coverage, tuition fee exemptions, and travel reimbursements, and how these benefits support their educational and personal development.
By understanding these details, young individuals can better appreciate the value and support offered to SK officials and may feel encouraged to participate in local governance.
SK Officials: Overview
SK officials are the youth representatives in the local government units (LGUs).
They are tasked with planning and implementing programs that benefit the youth in their communities.
While their roles are significant, their compensation is not fixed and varies based on several factors.
SK Officials’ Monthly Honoraria
SK officials do not receive a fixed monthly salary. Instead, they receive an honorarium that is determined based on their attendance and performance. The monthly honorarium for SK officials cannot exceed the rate equivalent to Salary Grade 9 Step 1 in the salary schedule of the city or municipality where the barangay belongs. In no case shall the monthly honorarium exceed the actual monthly compensation received by the SK chairperson.
Average Monthly Honoraria
- SK Chairperson: Around ₱7,900, but can be as high as ₱12,700 in more affluent barangays, especially in Metro Manila.
- SK Members: Approximately ₱5,900, with variations based on the financial status of the barangay.
Privileges of SK Officials
Apart from their honoraria, SK officials enjoy several benefits and privileges aimed at supporting their educational and personal development.
Exemption from Tuition Fees
- SK officials are exempt from paying tuition and matriculation fees while enrolled in any public tertiary school within their municipality, city, or province.
- This exemption also applies to schools within a 50-kilometer radius from their province.
Exemption from National Service Training Program (NSTP)
- SK officials are not required to participate in the NSTP, allowing them more time to focus on their duties.
Excused Absences
- SK officials may be excused from attending regular classes during official SK meetings or Sangguniang Barangay sessions.
PhilHealth Coverage
- All SK officials receive PhilHealth coverage, so that their healthcare needs are met.
Travel Reimbursement
- SK officials can claim reimbursement for actual travel expenses incurred while performing their duties, provided the travel is supported by an approved travel order.
Civil Service Eligibility
- Based on their years of service, SK officials can gain civil service eligibility, which can enhance their career opportunities in government service.
Additional Benefits for SK Chairperson
The SK chairperson holds a unique position with additional responsibilities and benefits.
Ex Officio Member of the Sangguniang Barangay
- The SK chairperson serves as an ex officio member of the Sangguniang Barangay, enjoying the same privileges as regular barangay council members.
Pro-Rata Honoraria
- The SK chairperson is entitled to a pro-rata honoraria for every Sangguniang Barangay session attended.
- They do not receive additional honorarium from regular SK funds, except those funded by higher-level LGUs.
Comparison with Other Local Government Officials
SK officials’ compensation is generally lower compared to other local government officials, but their benefits are tailored to support their youth and educational needs.
Barangay Chairperson
- Receives an average honorarium of ₱7,900, which can be as high as ₱12,700 in Metro Manila.
Barangay Councilors
- Earn approximately ₱5,900 monthly, rising to ₱8,900 in more affluent areas.
Higher Local Government Officials
- Provincial governors, vice-governors, city mayors, and vice-mayors earn significantly higher salaries ranging from ₱113,891 to ₱207,978 per month, depending on their position and location.
Benefits of Barangay Officials
In addition to their honoraria, barangay officials receive various other benefits:
Christmas Bonus:
- Barangay officials receive a Christmas bonus, typically at least ₱1,000 each.
Insurance Coverage:
- They are entitled to insurance, including disability, accident insurance, and death and burial benefits.
Free Medical Care:
- Barangay officials can avail of free medical care in any government hospital, with expenses up to ₱5,000 chargeable against barangay funds.
Preference in Government Appointments:
- After their tenure, barangay officials have a preference for appointments to any government position or government-owned or -controlled corporations.
Training and Development Opportunities
SK officials are mandated by law to undergo training programs to enhance their capabilities and effectiveness in their roles.
Mandatory Training Program
- All newly-elected SK officials must attend the SK Mandatory Training Program, which covers topics such as local governance, planning, budgeting, and ethical standards.
- The training is implemented by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the National Youth Commission (NYC).
- Failure to attend without a valid reason can result in disqualification or disciplinary action.
Recent Updates
Mandaue City LGU to Provide P2,000 Honorarium to SK Officials
The Mandaue City LGU will distribute a P2,000 honorarium to SK officials in every barangay within the city. This honorarium aims to support and recognize the contributions of SK officials in their respective communities.
Video: Honoraria at benefits ng mga opisyal ng Barangay at Sangguniang Kabataan | BK
Winners of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections serve for over two years with specific duties outlined for each position. While these officials have responsibilities, some positions receive a nominal honorarium rather than a fixed salary.
Conclusion
SK officials play a major role in representing the youth and driving community development.
Despite their lower compensation compared to other local government officials, the array of benefits and privileges they receive supports their educational and personal growth.
Understanding the salary and benefits structure for SK officials highlights the government’s efforts to empower the youth in public service and support their well-being.
Encouraging more young people to participate in governance will lead to a more dynamic and representative public sector.