[IPYG]
[IPYG] IPYG's Friends: Sangguniang Kabataan Barangay Bato
Introducing IPYG Affiliate Organization – Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Barangay Bato
The Sangguniang Kabataan (hereafter referred to as SK) is a youth representative body in the Philippines and an organization that operates in each Barangay (the smallest administrative unit in the Philippines, similar to a district or neighborhood in Korea) to serve and support the youth.
SK Barangay Bato represents the youth and plays a role in empowering them through governance, program development, and community participation. Currently, 833 members are active across nine branches, supporting government policies, and planning projects related to education, health, sports, and the environment, while also managing 10% of the Barangay budget to run youth programs. Through these efforts, they foster leadership, engage in education, and collaborate with government agencies to promote youth development.
SK Barangay Bato continues to support youth leadership development in collaboration with the Hinigaran Local Youth Development Office (LYDO) and IPYG. In particular, Pearl Ann Moyong, chairman of Sangguniang Kabataan Barangay Bato, is making significant contributions as a dedicated leader in peacebuilding and community service.
In an exclusive interview, she shared her journey of growing as a leader and the impact the Youth Empowerment Peace Class (YEPC) has had on her. “Before joining YEPC, I was very shy and hesitant to speak up. But through the training, I learned the importance of self-discipline and confidence in leadership,” Chairman Moyong shared. “Now, I am able to educate others and encourage them to take responsibility for our community.”
In November 2024, IPYG and SK Barangay Bato launched their first project aimed at raising environmental awareness among young athletes. The initiative encouraged players using the public basketball court to clean up after their games, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness.
“At first, I was afraid to talk to them, but I knew this was important. I explained to them why we must take care of our environment, and now they are the ones who clean up after every game,” Chairman Moyong said.
On December 15, 2024, volunteers took part in activities as part of the “YEPW Teenage Pregnancy Awareness and Promotion of HWPL Volunteerism Activity” campaign. This campaign is linked to a scholarship support program, and SK Barangay Bato has been continuously providing financial assistance to 80-100 young people in the community. As part of the program, HWPL’s peace education class, “Gratitude for Grace,” was also introduced.
“That’s why we included a discussion on Teenage Pregnancy Awareness and responsible financial management. We want to guide scholars to use their financial aid wisely and inspire them to become volunteers in YEPW Hinigaran Chapter,” said Chairman Moyong, explaining the purpose of the campaign.
These activities are gradually expanding, and SK Barangay Bato plans to support out-of-school youth in various regions. They aim to provide education, training, and volunteer opportunities in collaboration with the executive of YEPW in Hinigaran.
Pearl Ann Moyong, Chairman of Sangguniang Kabataan Barangay Bato, delivered a heartfelt message to the youth.
“I am Pearl Ann Moyong, an SK Chairperson, and like many young people, I have struggled to find peace within myself. The pressures of today’s world can feel overwhelming, and for a long time, I kept my pain and problems hidden. But I have learned that true peace starts from within.”
“Many of us search for peace in the world, yet we overlook the need to find it in our own hearts, our families, and our communities,” Chairman Moyong added. “How can we hope for world peace if we have not found peace in our own lives? The journey begins with us.”
“Through the YEPC (Youth Empowerment Peace Class) lessons and YEPW activities I’ve learned, I now see that every challenge has a solution, and every struggle is an opportunity for growth. Peace is not just a dream—it is something we can build, one step at a time. It starts with self-acceptance, with choosing kindness, and with understanding that we are not alone in this journey.”
“To the youth everywhere: You have the power to create peace. Find it within yourself, share it with others, and let it ripple across the world. When we stand together, we become the generation that turns peace into reality. We are one!”
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