Respondent #5

Interviewer: How aware are the youth of Brgy. Mabuhay of the environmental issues
affecting our community, such as improper waste disposal, pollution of our waterways,
and deforestation?

Respondent: Aside from being an SK Kagawad, my father works here in the Barangay
and is assigned to waste disposal. For me, as an SK Kagawad, I ask my father if there are
improper waste activities in each purok. If there are, we coordinate our SK activities to
help address the issue in each purok by properly designating waste areas. As of now,
we’re planning to have an MRF (Materials Recovery Facility). Maybe next year, the SK
Councilor of Mabuhay can provide one to help address improper waste disposal, such as
water waste, especially during the rainy season when floods are common here due to road
widening activities. Regarding deforestation, I don’t know if there are specific activities
addressing it here in Mabuhay. So far, we focus more on green initiatives, though it’s
quite hot here. I’m not sure if we’ve had deforestation-related engagements.

Interviewer: What do you think about the youth's awareness here regarding issues like
improper waste disposal?

Respondent: Honestly, in Mabuhay, awareness of environmental issues is quite low. I’d

say it’s not even 100%. Most of the activities here in Mabuhay are focused more on
sports. So, only a small portion of the youth is genuinely engaged or aware of
environmental issues. I’d estimate it’s around 40% at most.

Interviewer: Moving on to Question 1.3. What are the major environmental challenges
faced by Brgy. Mabuhay, and how are these affecting the daily lives and overall health of
the community?

Respondent: There are a lot of major environmental challenges, but right now, water
waste is a big issue. Every time it rains, we experience severe flooding. While waste
management is fairly well-handled and I can’t say we have problems with deforestation
or illegal logging, pollution caused by water waste remains a significant challenge.

Interviewer: How can you help better manage the waste, especially plastic waste, to
reduce its negative impact on our environment and promote a more sustainable lifestyle?

Respondent: Through collaboration with the Barangay, SK, and the use of PubMats
(Publication Materials). Our publication materials play a big role in raising awareness
among the youth about what’s happening here in the Barangay.

Interviewer: How do you work together with other barangay officials, local
organizations, and the community to develop a comprehensive environmental protection
plan for Brgy. Mabuhay?
Respondent: I’m also a member of the “4H Club” (Head, Heart, Hands, and Health),
which focuses on agriculture, local products, and environmental initiatives. Through the
4H Club, we help prevent improper waste management in Mabuhay. The club is still
active, especially since the regional president is based here in Mabuhay.

Interviewer: Is the 4H Club an international organization?

Respondent: Yes, it is.

Interviewer: How can you encourage the youth of Brgy. Mabuhay to engage in
environmental protection programs like local clean-up drives?

Respondent: Currently, we have ongoing tree planting activities and are collecting plants.
I’ve been coordinating with my friend, the SK Chairman of Maasim, Sarangani, to
collaborate on tree planting activities. We’ve already discussed this and aim to start this
December. They will provide the plants, and we will assist them when we go there.

Interviewer: What is your committee here?

Respondent: Social Inclusion and Equity, focusing on indigenous people, LGBT, and
similar groups.

Interviewer: Moving to the health category. What are the most common health issues or
concerns among the youth in your barangay, and what factors contribute to these
problems?

Respondent: One major issue here is HIV and AIDS. Although we don’t have complete
data, Mabuhay is reportedly among the top five areas for HIV cases. It’s a significant
concern and somewhat embarrassing for Mabuhay to be part of the top five.

Interviewer: What do you think contributes to these problems? Can it be attributed to a

lack of education?

Respondent: Yes. While we conduct symposiums, the youth still fail to fully comprehend
the issue. It may be because it’s what they choose to do, and I can’t entirely blame them
for that.

Interviewer: How can you assure that there are sufficient healthcare facilities and services
available to cater to the health needs of the residents, especially the youth, in your
barangay?

Respondent: The health center operates 24 hours and can address health needs, including
medicines and basic services. However, I’m not sure if they can provide more advanced
or specialized treatments. They mostly handle mild cases, like providing Biogesic or baby
injections.
Interviewer: In terms of accidents, can they provide assistance?

Respondent: Yes, they respond immediately.

Interviewer: What kind of health programs or initiatives can the Sangguniang Kabataan
implement to promote a healthier lifestyle and address the health concerns of your
community?

Respondent: We’ve planned health programs like anti-rabies initiatives and HIV testing.
Alongside symposiums, we also distribute condoms and lubricants to address these
concerns effectively.

Interviewer: Considering the importance of blood donation, what are some strategies or
initiatives you can help implement in Brgy. Mabuhay to encourage more residents,
especially the youth, to become regular blood donors?

Respondent: Regular follow-ups and health monitoring are crucial to sustaining blood
donation initiatives. For example, after a donation, we need to check on the donors' health
to ensure they can donate again in the future.

Interviewer: Given the increasing prevalence of mental health issues among young
people, what steps can the Sangguniang Kabataan take to promote mental health
awareness and support for youth in Brgy. Mabuhay?

Respondent: I’m not in favor of relying solely on publication materials or symposiums

for mental health awareness. I’ve requested the SK to provide one-on-one counseling and
a psychologist to address mental health issues effectively. Regular activities to monitor
the youth’s progress would also be helpful.

Interviewer: Moving on to the anti-drug abuse campaign. What are the most prevalent
drugs being used by the youth in your barangay, and what are the factors contributing to
their drug use?

Respondent: Crystals (methamphetamine) and marijuana are the most prevalent drugs
here. The main contributing factor is family issues.

Interviewer: How can you better engage the youth in anti-drug abuse programs and
empower them to make healthy choices?

Respondent: Since not all cases can be addressed, we rely on the Barangay to handle
these programs, while we provide minor assistance.

Interviewer: How can we effectively involve parents and guardians in anti-drug efforts to
create a more supportive home environment for the youth?
Respondent: Regular monitoring and requiring accomplishment reports from parents or
guardians can help track progress and address drug-related issues effectively.

Interviewer: How well do you understand the concept of gender and its implications on
the lives of individuals in our community?

Respondent: To answer the question, that's really it. It's about the concept of gender. So
as of now, in our Gen Z, there’s really a sense of gender identity—how one identifies
themselves. For example, "A transgender woman is considered female, while a trans
man, or a tomboy, is considered male." That’s the idea. So, this is really my implication.

Interviewer: What are some of the gender-based issues or challenges faced by the youth
in your barangay?

Respondent: If I answer this question, I would relate it to myself. If it’s about gender-
based issues, we no longer have the notion here in Mabuhay that women are only for
household tasks while men have to work.

Interviewer: Gender stereotypes.

Respondent: Yes, things are more balanced now. But when it comes to those in the
LGBT community and the Indigenous Peoples (IP), particularly among IP men and
women, there's fair treatment happening here in Mabuhay. It works because we have a
Barangay Kagawad who helps the IPs. You can see their progress over time. There’s
equality between men and women. But for the LGBT community, the same issues
remain. Challenges like being told, "You can’t do this because you’re gay," or "You can’t
do this because you’re a tomboy," still exist.

Interviewer: So, the youth are affected as well?

Respondent: Yes. The LGBT community here in Mabuhay is still being given
boundaries. However, that’s why I’m here—to help them and see what else can be done
for their benefit.

Interviewer: Next question: How can you create a more gender-sensitive environment in
your barangay where everyone feels respected and valued, regardless of their gender
identity or sexual orientation?

Respondent: If I ever get permission from the chairman next year—he mentioned to me
before that when it comes to creating programs, we could craft ordinances for men,
women, IPs, and the LGBT community. The goal is to prevent bullying here and avoid
mental health issues. We want to eliminate bullying altogether for these groups.

Interviewer: Next question: What role can the Sangguniang Kabataan play in promoting
gender equality and challenging harmful gender stereotypes?
Respondent: To answer this question, as part of your committee on social inclusion and
equity, I’m planning to identify the role of the Sangguniang Kabataan in promoting
gender equality here. We’re already creating programs. Hopefully, by this December—
my target date—we can provide a program suitable for them. For example, we have I-
Peace, which can provide not just local products but also office-related services. For the
LGBT community, we want programs that are not just for fun or sports like volleyball.
We want activities like TESDA trainings where they can learn manicure, pedicure, or
makeup so they can get certified in cosmetics.

Interviewer: So livelihood training?

Respondent: Yes, livelihood training activities. I don’t want to limit it to sports for them.
I want to expose them to other opportunities where they can showcase their skills and
talents.

Interviewer: Next question: How can you work with other community organizations and
leaders to promote gender sensitivity and address gender-based violence?

Respondent: Well, there’s the LGBTQ federation in the city and NGOs like Bahaghari.
There’s also Youth for Peace, particularly for Indigenous Peoples.

Interviewer: Is Youth for Peace a branch of the organization itself?

Respondent: Yes. We’re working with them to assist the poorest of the poor among
Indigenous Peoples. I also asked Youth for Peace if they could bring their activities here
to Mabuhay to expand the opportunities available to the IPs.

Interviewer: What are the most popular sports among the youth in your barangay, and
what resources or facilities are needed to support their participation?

Respondent: Basketball is the most popular sport here, as it’s the pride of Mabuhay.

Interviewer: And how is your community volleyball?

Respondent: It’s ongoing. I also handle volleyball. For soccer, we need to promote it
more. Volleyball and basketball are already well-known here, but we’re still uplifting
soccer.

Interviewer: How can you encourage more youth, especially girls, to participate in sports
activities and develop their athletic abilities?

Respondent: We conduct trainings. For example, starting January, we’ll have trainings
specifically for girls in volleyball. We also encourage them to play futsal, though,
unfortunately, participation is minimal. Volleyball training is ongoing for girls, and we
also have LGBT basketball every June.
Interviewer: What are the challenges you face in promoting sports development in your
barangay (e.g., lack of funding, inadequate facilities, or safety concerns)?

Respondent: The number one issue is the lack of funding and support.

Interviewer: From the barangay or the city?

Respondent: Both. In the barangay, there’s not enough encouragement for everyone to
join. There are also issues where sports promotions don’t reach certain areas.

Interviewer: How can you partner with schools, sports clubs, and other organizations to
create a more comprehensive sports program for your youth?

Respondent: We rely on the chairman and the SK chair to partner with sports clubs and
organizations to assist us with sports activities.

Interviewer: Next question: What are the long-term benefits of investing in sports
development for the youth in your barangay?

Respondent: Progress. You’ll see the development in each individual.

Interviewer: Let’s move on to Political Involvement. What are the main barriers that
prevent the youth from actively participating in political processes and decision-making?

Respondent: They don’t care about politics. Youth here are apolitical. They don’t
prioritize politics. They talk a lot about issues but don’t really understand the context.
Only a few are involved in politics.

Interviewer: How can you encourage more youth to become involved in local governance
and decision-making through initiatives like youth councils or youth representatives in
barangay assemblies?

Respondent: We have SKPOs (Sangguniang Kabataan Purok Officials) in every purok.

For local governance, we don’t have KK (Katipunan ng Kabataan) officials here. We rely
on the SKPOs to raise awareness among the youth through the KK Assembly.

Interviewer: What resources or training can you provide to equip the youth with the skills
and knowledge needed to become effective leaders and advocates for their community?

Respondent: I’m trying to gather all the youth interested in political involvement here in
Mabuhay. I want to create an organization for them to raise awareness.

Interviewer: How can we address the issue of youth apathy towards politics and
encourage more young people to become active participants in the community's
governance?
Respondent: Since the youth here are apolitical, the best way to address this is through
the KK Assembly. That’s where we can convince them to realize what SK Mabuhay can
offer for them.

Interviewer: How can you ensure that youth political involvement initiatives are
sustainable and continue to engage young people long-term, even after you leave your
positions in the Sangguniang Kabataan?

Respondent: We will make sure to leave a legacy here so the youth can remain active
even after we’re no longer in office. All activities will remain open for participation
without any political bias.

Interviewer: How do they implement the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Law in their
barangay? Starting with the first question: What are the primary arguments in favor of
expanding the age bracket for SK officials?

Respondent: I think it’s good because, in the past, under the previous reform act, the age
group was too young and lacked knowledge. But now, with the expanded age bracket, it’s
better as they’re more knowledgeable.

Interviewer: But what’s being referred to here are your arguments or opinions. For
example, if the age bracket expands to include 23 and above.

Respondent: For me, 18 to 23 is enough. Expanding it further would remove the essence
of being part of the SK because it would allow them to run for higher positions, which is
no longer under the SK’s scope.

Interviewer: What are the potential concerns or challenges associated with expanding the
age bracket for SK officials?

Respondent: One concern is that there may be less youth engagement because younger
individuals might feel intimidated if the age bracket is expanded.

Interviewer: How might the expanded age bracket impact the effectiveness and
representation of the Sangguniang Kabataan in addressing the concerns and needs of
young people?

Respondent: I can’t say. I’m more 50/50 about whether it’s effective when it comes to—
especially when they engage, you know. My initial thought on this is, if the SK age is
expanded, those within the same age bracket will likely just join, and that’s it. This could
prevent them from gathering younger members. The lower age group may get left behind.

Interviewer: Next question. What are the key considerations or factors that should be
taken into account when implementing the age expansion in the SK reform law?
Respondent: First of all, they really need to consider those who are younger than them. If
ever, even though they might organize activities, my concern is that the younger kids
might hesitate to approach the SK if the age bracket is expanded.

Interviewer: Next question: How can you help balance age expansion in the SK reform
law with maintaining a youth-led organization?

Respondent: Well, to balance it, they should provide programs that aren’t just for
themselves. They should also initiate programs for the younger kids and encourage them
to engage in their activities if the age bracket expansion is implemented.

Interviewer: Let’s move on to letter B: Anti-Political Dynasty. How does the law define a
political dynasty, and what criteria are used to determine if a family constitutes a political
dynasty?

Respondent: For example, Marcos ran as President, and his father also ran. That could be
considered a political dynasty if someone from their family runs for Senator. That’s it. If
it’s first and second-degree relatives, it’s prohibited. Third degree is allowed.

Interviewer: What are the potential benefits of implementing the anti-political dynasty
provision in the SK reform law?

Respondent: There are a lot of benefits. It won’t just focus on one family. When it comes
to families, they might not focus on programs but just on their family. You can gather
more ideas from other people if the anti-political dynasty provision is implemented here.

Interviewer: Next question. What are the challenges or difficulties that may be
encountered in enforcing the anti-political dynasty provision?

Respondent: None. There won’t be any challenges or difficulties because people will be
more open to getting ideas from others.

Interviewer: How can the effectiveness of the anti-political dynasty provision be

measured and evaluated?

Respondent: For example, here in Mabuhay, it’s not really practiced. That’s why the anti-
political dynasty provision seems effective here because you can gain more ideas. And
you won’t hesitate to ask for help from other people, especially the captain.

Interviewer: So, in other words, the effectiveness of the anti-political dynasty provision
can be measured by seeing its reflection in the actual local government?

Respondent: Yeah.
Interviewer: So number 2.10. How can you ensure that the anti-political dynasty
provision in the SK reform law is implemented fairly and equitably, without unfairly
excluding qualified individuals from running for SK positions?

Respondent: You can see it. It’s tangible. You can see that their planning is effective,
especially with the anti-political dynasty provision in the SK Reform Law.

Interviewer: Additional question regarding this number. For example, if I were to run,
and my mother, who is running for Mayor, pushes me to run as Vice Mayor—but I am
really well-equipped and qualified to run for the position—can we consider that? Since I
am qualified and it’s in my blood to serve, do we still allow it, or will it still be restricted?

Respondent: No, it’s not allowed.

Interviewer: Someone really has to make a sacrifice.

Respondent: One of you must sacrifice. Even though both are qualified, there has to be
someone who steps back.

Interviewer: Moving on to letter C: Mandatory and Continuing Training. What specific

types of training are mandated for SK officials under the reform law?

Respondent: So far, I’ve only attended SKMT (Sangguniang Kabataan Mandatory

Training).

Interviewer: Next question. What are the goals or objectives of the mandatory and
continuing training programs for SK officials?

Respondent: Well, aside from gaining knowledge, it’s to acquire ideas—for example,
from seminars—and apply them to support your initiatives here. You can implement
them for the youth. That, for me, is the biggest goal.

Interviewer: Next question. What challenges or difficulties may be encountered in

implementing the mandatory and continuing training requirements for SK officials?

Respondent: Budget. Budget is the number one challenge. For example, as SK officials,
we can’t easily attend activities or programs even if they are mandatory, especially if we
don’t have the budget, because we need to cover expenses ourselves.

Interviewer: Next question. How can you help ensure that the mandatory and continuing
training programs for SK officials are effectively integrated into their daily work and
contribute to their overall development as leaders?

Respondent: Well, we need to focus and identify the rampant issues here before
implementing our programs.
Interviewer: Moving on to the next category, financial independence. What are the
restrictions or limitations on how SK funds can be used, and how are these restrictions
enforced?

Respondent: Here, we are very observant when it comes to SK funds. We need to spend
the money properly because we are afraid of being pursued by the Ombudsman.

Interviewer: So in terms of restrictions or limitations, can you just release funds easily?

Respondent: No. For example, the SK honorarium—funds cannot be released unless we

have minutes of the meeting, a regular session, and an agenda. That’s why it’s not
allowed.

Interviewer: Next page. What mechanisms are in place to ensure the transparency and
accountability of SK funds, and how are these mechanisms monitored and evaluated?

Respondent: It's all about process here. Everything must go through the proper steps,
especially with documentation. We have transparency, so you can see exactly where the
money comes from, how it's used, and where it goes.

Interviewer: How can we address the challenges of financial mismanagement and

corruption that may arise within the Sangguniang Kabataan, despite the provisions for
financial independence and accountability?

Respondent: Aside from ensuring awareness of the budget, we regularly check the
documents. SK officials, not just the chairman, must understand what they are signing.

Interviewer: How can you help ensure that the financial independence of the
Sangguniang Kabataan is utilized effectively to support youth development programs and
initiatives that benefit the entire community?

Respondent: You can see it clearly. For example, here in Mabuhay, we ensure the SK
budget is visible in terms of its use. We allocate it for prizes and other needs for activities
involving the youth. This way, we can help them through the activities and prizes we
provide.

Interviewer: Now, moving on to the LYDO and LYDC. What is the relationship between
the LYDO and LYDC with the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) and other local government
units (LGUs)?

Respondent: To answer that, based on my understanding, the Local Youth Development

Officer (LYDO) is part of the Local Government Unit (LGU). The LYDC (Local Youth
Development Council) assists in implementing programs provided by the LYDO. The
relationship between these two and the SK Council is that we, as the SK, prioritize youth
activities, decision-making, and coordination with other LGUs. Without the youth, the
LYDO cannot produce activities that the LYDC can distribute to the youth in Mabuhay
and other barangays.

Interviewer: How are the LYDO and LYDC funded, and what are the sources of their
budget?

Respondent: The LYDO receives funding from the City Mayor’s Office. The LYDC is
funded when there are activities proposed by the LYDO, which are approved by the LGU
or the City Mayor’s Office.

Interviewer: What are the potential benefits and challenges associated with the creation of
the LYDO and LYDC in promoting youth development and participation in local
governance?

Respondent: For potential benefits, one would be the gathering of information. Their
programs seem effective as they collect ideas not only from Mabuhay but also from other
barangays.

Interviewer: So the SK has prior knowledge that certain programs are effective because
the LYDC has already decided to implement them?

Respondent: Yes. But for challenges, even with a well-budgeted program, it sometimes
cannot be implemented at the barangay level, so it may not be as effective as planned.

Interviewer: So implementation is where the problem lies?

Respondent: Yes, implementation is the number one issue.

Interviewer: How can you ensure that the LYDO and LYDC have the necessary
resources, support, and authority to effectively carry out their mandate of promoting
youth development and participation in local governance?

Respondent: While the resources provided by the LYDC for youth development are
visible, the challenge lies in mobilizing these resources effectively. If we fail to utilize the
funding and resources properly, the programs will not be effective.

Interviewer: Moving to SOP 3. What insights can be gained from their experiences? Let’s
start with the first question: How do you handle your obligations as an SK member
alongside your studies and/or other duties?

Respondent: Though I don’t attend many seminars, I manage to fulfill my obligations as

an SK by participating in activities. I balance my responsibilities despite being busy with
other side jobs.

Interviewer: What characteristics should an SK member embody to fulfill their role in

serving the community?
Respondent: First and foremost, being compassionate. An SK member should also be
open-minded and capable of handling youth-related situations.

Interviewer: What have you learned while serving the people and helping your
community become a better place?

Respondent: I’ve learned a lot. Serving here taught me how to be inclusive as an SK

official.

Interviewer: What thoughts or realizations do you have regarding youth civic engagement
and empowerment in the community?

Respondent: My main realization is that the youth should be vocal. How can the SK
Council address their concerns if they don’t express them?

Interviewer: How do you view your impact on serving the community of Barangay
Mabuhay in following the mandate of the SK Reform Law?

Respondent: One significant impact is uplifting the youth, especially the LGBT
community. I’ve provided opportunities to showcase their talents through the programs
I’ve initiated.

Interviewer: What strategies have proven effective in overcoming barriers to serving your
community and promoting youth engagement?

Respondent: There have been many trials and errors, but we keep improving. Whatever
we lacked in one activity, we make up for in the next.

Interviewer: What challenges do you face as an SK official, and how do you address
them?

Respondent: The biggest challenge was the lack of perceived support from the SK
Council during the Gensan Summer Youth Fest sports activities. Even though we did our
best, it was a difficult time because some felt their goals weren’t achieved.

Interviewer: How would you assess the current effectiveness of SK programs in Mabuhay
in fostering youth empowerment?

Respondent: There are still gaps, but we’re doing our best. We brainstorm as a council to
address previous lapses and improve for the future.

Interviewer: What changes can you suggest to improve youth empowerment and civic
engagement services in Mabuhay?
Respondent: To improve youth empowerment, we as a council need to be more effective
ourselves. Addressing our lapses will help us better support the youth.

Interviewer: How do you foresee the future of youth governance in Barangay Mabuhay
as an SK member?

Respondent: Right now, I won’t sugarcoat it. They’re trying to be more open to politics
and governance activities here.

Interviewer: What do you see in the future of youth leadership?

Respondent: It’s still uncertain. They’re doing well, but we can’t predict the future
leaders of Mabuhay.

Interviewer: What are your long-term goals for the SK and youth participation in the
future?

Respondent: My long-term goal is to uplift the youth, particularly the LGBT and
Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities, and to make them more recognized and exposed,
not just in Mabuhay.

Interviewer: In what ways can the SK further evolve to better meet the needs of the youth
in Mabuhay?

Respondent: As an SK official, I’d say we need to consult the youth more to identify their
needs and listen to their thoughts.