Senate starts deliberations on SK reform proposals

MANILA, Philippines - With the bill postponing the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections signed into law, the Senate has started its deliberations on proposals to reform the SK system.

The Senate committee on local government chaired by Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. held its first hearing on the proposed reforms for the SK system recently.

Among proposals the committee is looking into is the authority given to SK officials to handle public funds.

“Since the SK leaders have a vote on matters that could involve huge amounts of public funds, they are vulnerable to influence of corrupt politicians or unscrupulous contractors,” Marcos said.

The Local Government Code provides that 10 percent of the total Internal Revenue Allotment of local government units goes to barangay SKs.

This year, a total of P6.1 billion would go to the SK in 42,000 barangays nationwide.