29/05/2025
READ | NYC Hails New SK Fund Guidelines as Win for Youth Governance
National Youth Commission (NYC) Chairperson Joseph Francisco โJeffโ R. Ortega welcomed the issuance of Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 1, s. 2025, a critical policy reform led by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the NYC, which lays down updated guidelines on the appropriation, release, planning, and budgeting process for Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) funds.
The circular, signed on May 23, 2025, replaces JMC No. 1, s. 2019 and integrates key amendments under Republic Act No. 11768 to ensure stronger compliance, transparency, and youth-centered budgeting at the barangay level. It affirms the mandate that 10% of the barangayโs general fund must be set aside exclusively for youth development and empowerment.
โThis updated circular is important because it finally answers long-standing concerns raised by SKs, LYDCs, and LYDOs across the country,โ said Chairperson Ortega. โWith these new guidelines, SK officials will now be able to plan and implement programs with less delay, more transparency, and better alignment with local youth needs. It ensures that SKs can carry out their jobs more effectively, helping build a more robust local youth development system.โ
Chairperson Ortega also expressed gratitude to the DBM and DILG for their responsiveness and leadership. โWe thank DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla for championing the voice of the youth sector. This JMC is a product of real collaboration, one that puts youth participation front and center in local governance,โ he said.
The issuance of the updated JMC marks a decisive step forward in building a youth governance system that is responsive, efficient, and anchored in transparency. It stands as a strong response to the call of SK leaders and youth development advocates nationwide for better systems that work for young Filipinos.
