Not All Youth Are Into Leagues, NYC Reminds SK
NYC – The National Youth Commission is calling on Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials to create programs that go beyond sports tournaments.
In an interview on Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon on August 12, 2025, NYC Chairperson Joseph Francisco Ortega emphasized that not all young people are active in sports. While sports can be fun and engaging, he said SK leaders must also develop activities and training programs that cater to different skills and interests.
“Kaya sa ating mga sangguniang Kabataan, pag gagawa kayo ng batas, hindi lang dapat puro sports. Alam naman natin na masaya ‘yan. Pero kailangan isipin din natin, anong mga training ang pwede nating ibigay sa iba’t ibang mga kabataan,” Ortega explained.
He noted that not everyone is physically able to run fast or jump high, but some excel in academics such as mathematics, science, or astronomy. These young people, he said, could be the next generation of professionals serving in key government agencies like PAG-ASA or the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
Ortega stressed the importance of developing knowledgeable and skilled young leaders who can contribute meaningfully to governance. “Kailangan po natin ng mga bagong generation na mas maraming may-alam, at maraming talino na maidadala sa gobyerno,” he said.
Addressing SK leaders nationwide, Ortega encouraged them to maximize their opportunities while still young, viewing their role as preparation for future leadership. “Habang kayo ay nagpapractice pa bilang bata, bilang pre-leaders ng ating bansa, kailangan ibigay niyo lahat ng kakayanin niyo. And wag kalimutan to pay it forward,” he urged.
Meanwhile, the National Youth Commission (NYC) is the government’s lead agency for youth development. Established under Republic Act No. 8044, it is responsible for crafting policies, programs, and initiatives that empower young people to actively participate in nation-building. The NYC also oversees and guides the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK), ensuring its projects are inclusive, impactful, and aligned with national youth development goals.