#CDOyouthCODE

What is a local youth code?

A local youth code is a piece of local legislation, which recognizes the vital role of the youth in societal growth and development through the creation of a broader youth participatory mechanism in public governance. The creation of a youth council operationalize this participatory mechanism. It is a recommending body, which is, composed of existing youth organizations organized through sectors within the territorial jurisdiction of the local government unit. Furthermore, the local youth code outlines the obligations and responsibilities of the local government unit in terms of youth development. With a law, the body is institutionalized and therefore stand perpetually unless repealed. 

#CDOyouthCode

What is the legal basis?

The 1987 Constitution itself expressly provides in Article II, Section 13 which states that the State recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation building and shall promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual and social well-being. It shall inculcate in the youth patriotism and nationalism, and encourage their involvement in public and civic affairs. This constitutional mandate was put into life through the enactment of RA 8044 also known as the The Youth in Nation-Building Act. Reading these all together, the Local Government Code of 1991 empowers all local government units, even the barangay to enact laws for the promotion of the general welfare through Section 16 of the said code. The general welfare clause is a broad power which the barangay council can invoke to create the local youth code.  

What are its basic features?

The local youth code, in its basic structure creates or recognizes the following

·       The right of the youth to participate in the policy-making process in the barangay

·       The creation of the barangay youth development council, its responsibilities and powers

·       The appropriation of reasonable funding for the operation of the council

How can we lobby to our local legislative body?

·       Be organized (a group of 10 – 20)

·       Write a letter to your barangay council inviting them to a meeting with your group

·       Present the intent of the Barangay Youth Code and share its potential benefits for the Barangay

·       Join the Barangay Council Meetings

·       Mobilize support online and offline

·       Document and celebrate your progress

·       Share your stories