Entire SK council in Sarangani resigns over canceled polls

KORONADAL CITY, SOUTH COTABATO, Philippines — An entire 10-member Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) council in Malungon, Sarangani province has resigned altogether—declining two more years in office as a result of the postponement of the Barangay and SK Elections (BSKE)—saying they can’t keep postponing their personal and career plans.

Last September, President Marcos signed Republic Act No. 12326, postponing the BSKE set for Nov. 2 to the second Monday of November 2028, effectively extending the term of current barangay and SK officials by two more years. RA 12326 also fixed their terms at five years.

In a joint statement posted on their official Facebook page on Tuesday, Nov. 3, the entire SK council of Barangay Banate formally announced their resignation, saying they wanted to pursue other goals, explore new opportunities, and grow beyond their responsibilities in public service.“Serving the youth of Barangay Banate has been an up-and-down, and a meaningful experience for all of us,” the statement read, describing their three years in office as a period that taught them lessons in leadership, teamwork, and local governance.

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READ: Marcos signs BSKE postponement into law

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Banate is a rural barangay in Malungon town with 3,914 residents in 1,096 households. It is the seventh most populous among Malungon’s 31 barangays, according to the 2024 Census of Population.

The SK council members, who submitted their resignation to the mayor’s office, said they saw their departure as an opportunity for other young leaders to step forward, take on responsibilities and bring their own ideas to the community.

The SK secretary and SK treasurer also tendered their resignations.

READ: Barangay, SK polls’ postponement draws mixed views in House

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In a separate statement, SK chairperson Phejay Pacaña explained that they had initially expected to complete their term with the scheduled 2026 BSKE, which Marcos postponed to 2028 and effectively extended their mandate for another two years.

According to him, the postponement makes it difficult for them to pursue their individual career and personal plans.Pacaña said the council members, several of whom are already licensed professionals and college graduates with Latin honors, have careers to build, further studies to pursue, and other opportunities to explore.

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The last BSKE election was held on Oct. 30, 2023.  “I know the oath I took was serious, and I never treated this position as something temporary or insignificant. But I also realized that I cannot keep postponing my own life indefinitely. I have dreams outside this office, too,” he said.Pacaña clarified that the decision was not prompted by a disagreement with the barangay council, saying both bodies had maintained a good working relationship during their three-year tenure.He acknowledged that the council was not perfect but said it had tried to introduce new approaches to youth development and provide opportunities for young people in the barangay.Some of the resigned SK members also explained their reasons for not serving out their extended terms.

“I believe it is now the right time for me to focus on my development as an educator and to fully embrace my responsibility in guiding and nurturing the next generation of learners,” Cristine Joy Salda said.

Chelsea Alexa Rafinian explained: “I have decided to focus more on my personal and professional growth, particularly in pursuing my career goals and responsibilities.”

 “I am preparing to embark on a vessel in January 2027, which will require me to be away from the community for an extended period. Given the nature of my work and the uncertainty of my availability, I believe I may no longer be able to consistently fulfill my duties and responsibilities as an SK Kagawad,” Jayvee Navales said.

“I want to ensure that I can give my full commitment and dedication to my teaching profession,” Jazz Gonzales said.

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Xcylla Fritch Baguio: “As of now, I am currently pursuing employment opportunities abroad, which takes my time, commitment and preparation in the application process and interviews. I believe that this is an important step toward building a more stable future and pursuing the goals I have set for myself and my family.” /cb