Former SK head backs 'SK reform bill'
Reform and not abolition. While at it, increase the 'age-coverage' in the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK). And grant the SK fiscal autonomy too.
Such now formed part the main message of advocates for the SK Reform Bill policy with consultations reaching Iloilo.
Introduced by Representative Eduardo Nonato N. Joson of Nueva Ecija, SK officials and members throughout the province were called to get Iloilo SK group's sentiments.
Among the staunch reform bill supporter is Ex-Officio Board Member Jeneda Salcedo, current Liga ng mga Barangay president and former SK head of Iloilo.
In an interview, Salcedo told The News Today (TNT) that the time is ripe for SK reforms.
Foremost of the lady board member's priority reforms is on fiscal autonomy.
"We don't need to experiment on the system. What we need are reforms. So fiscal autonomy is one and we also want amendments on the voting age and allowable age for elective SK officials," Salcedo said.
From the current voting and allowable elective age of 15 to 18, Salcedo backs call for age adjustment of voting age between 15 to 21 and elective SK officials aged 18 to 21.
Joson's bill is entitled "An Act strengthening and reforming the Sangguniang Kabataan amending and adding certain provisions in RA 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991."
As pushed, amendment on the SK fund provision states, "….at least ten percent of the general fund of the barangay shall be set aside for the Sangguniang Kabataan fund subject for the approval by the absolute majority of the Sangguniang Kabataan. The Sangguniang Kabataan will have fiscal autonomy subject to the rules and regulations governed by the sk constitution and by laws and upon consultation of the members of the Katipunan ng Kabataan."
Further still is the proposed amendment on the duties of the Katipunan ng Kabataan which shall be the highest policy making body to decide on matters affecting the youth of the barangay. It is also desired that the Katipunan shall be tasked to review and endorse the approved annual program of action of the Sangguniang Kabataan.
The Iloilo consultation discussed why reform and not abolition should be supported. The SK officials and members present also drafted a declaration of support as the proposed SK Reform Bill was discussed.