Legislative Competency of Sangguniang Kabataan Officials: A Catalyst for Youth Participation in Local Governance of a First-Class Municipality

Legislation stands as a cornerstone in any democratic system, demanding that legislators wield essential competencies to fulfill their roles as architects of local government. These competencies are not just desirable but indispensable for fostering nation-building. In response to the widespread mismanagement, ineffectiveness, and corruption plaguing the Sangguniang Kabataan(SK), the Philippine Congress enacted R.A. No. 10742, otherwise known as the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Law. This study aimed to assess the local legislation competencies of the incumbent SK Officials of the Municipality of Bayombong. Specifically, it aimed to measure their communication skills,
attention to detail, research aptitude, problem analysis and solution, information management, and influence and impact. This descriptive research employed quantitative approach to the SK Officials’ competencies including the difficulties and challenges in performing their legislative mandates. Results show that SK officials’ competencies in communication, research, problem-solving, attention to detail, and information management are good. Communication was the highest-rated competency,
with officials showing strong interpersonal skills but needing improvement in openness to suggestions. Research aptitude was also noted as dependable, though many were less confident in leading research efforts independently. No significant differences were found in competency levels when respondents were grouped by position, indicating a consistent skill level across the board regardless of role. However, qualitative responses revealed widespread difficulties in legislative writing, particularly in structuring and formatting resolutions, and in understanding what content to include in the “whereas” sections. These challenges were largely attributed to a lack of training and formal instruction. Further difficulties included limited participation of council members, poor attendance during sessions, and internal conflicts that hindered the legislative process. SK officials also reported challenges balancing the needs of the youth with broader community goals, particularly in the face of limited resources and time constraints. Many found it hard to create actionable, realistic, and legally sound resolutions.

Keywords: Local legislation, SK resolutions, communication, attention to detail, research aptitude, problem analysis and solution, information management, influence and impact