By Mariedan Olorosisimo I Mar Says
The new Sangguniang Kabataan Official Eligibility (SKOE) is intended to reward youth leaders for public service. Under CSC Resolution No. 2500752, SK officials who complete a full three‑year term (or its equivalent), and who are in good standing, can qualify for first‑level government eligibility.
At first, this seems promising: recognizing youth service, offering opportunities, encouraging more engagement. But I believe SKOE carries serious risks. Unless there are stronger safeguards, it may cause more harm than benefit.
What’s Wrong with SKOE?
One major problem is that SKOE gives eligibility based mainly on term of service, not on real performance. Someone may occupy the position, attend some meetings, but not take on meaningful projects. Yet they qualify just by finishing the term. That weakens the principle that eligibility should reflect capability. It opens the door for those who hold title but lack substance to compete equally with those who have actually proven themselves.
Another concern is that SKOE might change the nature of SK participation. Instead of being a genuine role for community youth service, it could become a stepping stone. More young people might run for SK not because they want to lead or serve, but simply to earn eligibility later on. When ambitions shift toward credential accumulation rather than public service, accountability, motivation, and dedication may suffer.
The rules try to include checks: SK officials must be “in good standing,” and they must not be related up to the second civil degree to any incumbent elected official in their area. But these constraints are vague and may be hard to enforce. “Good standing” is vague; what counts as neglect, non‑performance, or misconduct? Without clear definitions and strict verification, the safeguards could be honored more in breach than in substance.
Importantly, the Civil Service Commission explicitly excludes SK Chairpersons from SKOE. That is because SK Chairpersons already fall under a different eligibility framework. As a result, the SKOE covers mostly SK members, secretaries, and treasurers. While this exclusion reflects existing policy, it also means SKOE does not apply universally across SK roles.
How Can We Make SKOE Better?
To make SKOE more effective and fair, several changes should be considered. First, performance evaluation should be required. SK officials shouldn’t get SKOE just for finishing a term—they should prove what they’ve done. They need to show real achievements, get feedback from the people they serve, and provide measurable results. This way, eligibility reflects actual work, not just time spent in office.
Second, there must be stronger monitoring and audit systems so only truly qualified officials get SKOE. If someone misuses their role or fails to perform, their eligibility should be revoked. That helps keep the system honest and shows that public service means real responsibility.
Additionally, the term "good standing" needs a clear definition. It's essential to specify what counts as misconduct, absence, or non-performance. Without clear guidelines, the term can be interpreted in various ways, leading to inconsistencies and potential misuse.
Transparency is also important. Publicly sharing information about who receives SKOE, the documents they submitted, and the reasons for any rejections promote trust and accountability. It allows the community to see that the process is fair and based on merit.
Lastly, there should be strict supervision and monitoring of SK funds and activities. Financial resources must be used properly and for their real purpose, not wasted on things like luxury trips or training sessions just for show. We must protect public money and ensure every peso is used for genuine community projects, not misdirected for unnecessary or personal gain.
The Sangguniang Kabataan Official Eligibility (SKOE) has the potential to empower young leaders and encourage genuine public service. However, without proper safeguards, it risks becoming a mere title rather than a true reflection of dedication and capability.
Let's work together to improve SKOE. I urge policymakers, the Civil Service Commission, and local government units to collaborate in creating clear standards and monitoring systems. By doing so, we can uphold the integrity of the SKOE and ensure that it serves as a genuine recognition of youth leadership and public service.