“UBI SUNT IUVENES, PULCHRA SPES PATRIAE?” (“Where are the youth, fair hope of the fatherland?”) (Part 1)

(SK LEADERS AND MEDIA, QUO VADIS? … QUID FECISTI? … where are you going … what have you done?)

In high school, one of my favorite books which I even read again in college, and, is still my favorite now, is El Filibusterismo by Dr. Jose Rizal. The powerful words spoken by the character Padre Florentino, “WHERE ARE THE YOUTH, FAIR HOPE OF THE FATHERLAND?”, keep reverberating in my mind, and, in my soul.

Dr. Rizal deeply believed that the youth play the most important role in national transformation. I begin to question this, are they still, with what is happening now? When Presidential Decree No. 684 (1975) was issued creating the Kabataang Barangay (KB), my hopes on the significant role of the youth in nation building, was heightened believing that the KB will empower our young to be responsible Filipino citizens who will participate in community affairs.

During the martial law days, the KB evolved into the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), an institutionalized barangay youth council with fiscal autonomy and anti-dynasty rules. But it is so sad that instead of being a nest where our young will be nurtured to become dependable Filipino leaders with integrity, accountability, dedication and commitment, it seems to be the contrary, yes, it has become a hatchery for corruption (sorry, but true).

Now, the SK is “facing heavy criticism over allegations of corruption, vote-buying, patronage politics, and serving as a breeding ground for political dynasties x x x lawmakers postponed and suspended SK elections multiple times, leading to proposals to scrap the system entirely”.

On top of this dilemma, what is more threatening now is the pervading violence happening in schools. The school which should be a haven and safe place for our children has turned into a place of petrifying terror and devastating trauma.

Now, the harsh reality of school violence and radicalizing and violent online content have ignited an aggressive national discussion in the Philippines over social media regulation, media copycat dangers, and internet or digital safety for our children.

“The Philippine National Police (PNP) recently asked Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials to act as community partners in spotting early signs of youth violence.

Recent School Violence

• Tragedies: Major shooting incidents occurred in Tacloban City, Zamboanga City, and South Cotabato (Banga National High School), resulting in multiple deaths and injuries.
• Threats: Schools in Manila and Muntinlupa also faced security and bomb scares, prompting class suspensions. Just recently, here in Davao City, on October 01 classes were suspended in a private school because a Grade 9 student texted a classmate that she will do a shooting spree.
• Impact: Officials noted that easy access to home firearms and unregulated online content contributed to these crises.

The Role of SK Officials

• Early Warning: PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated that SK leaders live closest to young people and can spot behavioral changes or online red flags before they turn violent.
• Community Programs: The PNP directed local units to work with SK councils on sports, leadership, and anti-violence campaigns.
• Local Actions: In places like Iloilo City, local SK Federation President Jelma Implica urged authorities to increase police visibility and enforce curfews for minors.
• Debate: Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla expressed reservations regarding the PNP’s specific reliance on SK units, calling for broader tactical reviews.” (to be cont.)

(Ma. Cynthia P. Aranas)