Vacant Bontoc youth council posts filled up

By Alpine L. Killa

BONTOC, Mountain Province -- Sangguniang Kabataan  officials in this capital town who were elected during the special SK election last January took their oath of office on Thursday.

Bontoc Mayor Franklin Odsey administered the oath-taking saying elected SK officials were put in the position by the people, because they believed in their capabilities in responding to the needs of their barangays, especially the youth sector.

Odsey assured the full support of the municipal government to programs to be undertaken by the SK officials catering to youth empowerment and development

Prior to the oath-taking, the SK officials underwent a one-day SK mandatory training as a pre-requisite before they can assume office.

Municipal local government operations officer Caridad Basilio said the training aimed to prepare the SK officials on the responsibilities that they are expected to perform as they assume their office and empower SK officials to exercise good governance. 

Municipal legal officer Seichi Ofo-ob and Sangguniang Bayan member Alsannyster Patingan explained to the participants the SK Reform Law citing duties and functions of SK, privileges, and ground for removal from office.  Municipal youth development officer Clifton Changat discussed the conduct of meetings and resolution making. MLGOO Caridad Basilio gave emphasis on the code of ethics for government officials while municipal budget officer Aida Lingbanan lectured on SK planning and budgeting.

Senior Insp. Faith Ayan Igualdo, Bontoc police chief talked about the role of the youth in the campaign against illegal drugs.

The training was facilitated by the Department of Interior and Local Government through the MLGOO in coordination with the Liga ng mga Barangay and SK Federation President Sherwin Chamkas.