Saturday, October 27, 2007 Youth leader advises SK voters: Go for credibility, track record
DESPITE several controversies he witnessed in the National Youth Commission (NYC), Commissioner-at-large Michael Lopez is optimistic the youth will always be “the country’s shining beacon of hope.”
For the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections on Monday, he urged youth voters to select their leaders with standards in mind.
“As you vote for your Sangguniang Kabataan representatives, use standards that you would follow in voting for a President for the country—standards such as integrity, credibility, track record, and a sound environmental agenda. Remember that SK positions are no different from any other posts,” Lopez said.
Lopez is one of the respondents of the complaints filed against the NYC board over its selection process for a national leader for the Ship for South East Asian Youth Program (SSEAYP).
Lopez said he is the only one in the NYC board who opposed the selection of an NYC official as this year’s SSEAYP national leader and the reservation of 12 slots for NYC volunteers.
“It’s cheap to grab opportunities that are for the youth. Don’t abuse your power. Don’t take the youth lightly. Be an example,” he said.
Lopez admitted he once wanted the SK abolished, but said he saw its potential in engaging the youth in local governance and learned there is no similar political model in other countries. He plans to propose reforms in the SK after the election. (NRC)
