Citing deep-rooted issues of corruption and inactivity, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Monday, April 27, 2026, advocated for the abolition of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), the country’s youth council system.
The Secretary’s proposal follows recent allegations of financial irregularities involving several SK chairpersons in Makati City.
During a press conference, Remulla expressed his desire to dismantle the current youth governance framework, though he admitted that such a move faces significant legal hurdles.
“Kung ako lang ang masusunod ay papalitan ko na ang istraktura ng SK. Ngunit ito ay constitutional issue at hindi kaya ng aking kagawaran,” Remulla stated.
Remulla argued that the current elective system often exposes young leaders to unethical political practices prematurely.
He suggested that if the nation pursues constitutional reform, the SK should be entirely removed to prevent the normalization of graft among the youth.
“Pero ang recommendation ko talaga diyan, kung magkaroon tayo ng constitutional change ay abolish na ang SK. Dahil nakikita natin na aging kultura na rin mula bata na ang corruption ay ordinaryo na lamang,” he added.
Beyond integrity issues, the Interior chief questioned the efficacy of youth officials nationwide. According to Remulla, data suggests that approximately 50% of SK leaders become inactive after their first year, frequently leaving their responsibilities to designated officers-in-charge.
To address these gaps, Remulla proposed a shift from popular elections to an appointive system managed by the local village councils.
He noted that the current electoral process often gives winners a false sense of immunity.
“Ang rekomendasyon ko ay village council na lang ang mag-aappoint kung sino magha-handle ng affairs kaysa mag-eelection pa. Ang nangyayari sa kanila kasi, ‘yung eleksyon ay nagiging parang chapa nila na hindi sila puwedeng magkamali. Na kahit anong gawin nila, tama pa rin,” Remulla explained.
The Secretary’s statements reignite a long-standing debate regarding the SK’s relevance.
While the institution was designed to foster youth leadership and civic engagement, it continues to face scrutiny over its susceptibility to traditional political vices and a lack of tangible impact on local governance.