MALUNGON, Sarangani — The entire Sangguniang Kabataan council of Barangay Banate in Malungon, Sarangani, has resigned en masse, citing personal career development and extended terms resulting from postponed local elections.
SK Chairperson Phejay Pacaña announced the joint departure in an official statement, explaining that remaining in office would delay the academic and professional pursuits of council members, who are licensed professionals and college honor graduates.
Pacaña said the council originally anticipated completing its term ahead of the postponed youth polls. Serving up to two additional years posed financial and personal hardships, given the minimal compensation allocated to local youth officials.
"I know the oath I took was serious," Pacaña said. "But I also realized that I cannot keep postponing my own life indefinitely. I have dreams outside this office."
Pacaña clarified that the decision was not driven by disputes with the barangay council, noting that both leadership bodies maintained a cooperative working relationship throughout their three-year tenure.
The decision drew mixed reactions online. Critics expressed concern over potential delays in youth project implementation and the administrative burden of training new officers, while supporters praised the council for making a practical career decision.
Legally, voluntary resignations within youth councils are governed by Section 19 of Republic Act 10742, or the Sangguniang Kabataan Reform Act of 2015, as amended by RA 11768.
Guidelines from the Department of the Interior and Local Government, specifically DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2018-212, dictate that mass vacancies must be resolved through special elections or Katipunan ng Kabataan assemblies to elect replacement members for the unexpired terms.
DILG rules also mandate that incoming officers undergo mandatory training before managing youth development funds and administrative duties.
Barangay officials stated that announcements regarding the selection process for the new council will be posted on their official page.
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