The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region XII conducted the Regional Orientation on the Revised Implementing Guidelines and Assessment Tools for the 2026 Governance Exemplars for Meaningful Service for Sangguniang Kabataan (GEMS for SK) on May 12, 2026 via Zoom, participated in by DILG GEMS for SK Focal Persons and City/Municipal Local Government Operations Officers (C/MLGOOs) across the region.

The orientation discussed key reforms under the revised guidelines, including strengthened support to the devolution of local youth development, institutionalization of a self-assessment mechanism through Performance Monitoring Teams (PMTs), streamlined validation processes, recalibrated assessment tools integrating updated national policies and recommendations from the National Youth Commission, and reinforced roles of DILG and LGUs in program implementation.

In her opening message, Regional Director Atty. Rochelle D. Mahinay-Sero emphasized the importance of empowering the youth as active partners in governance in support of a Bagong Pilipinas and strengthened participatory local governance.

RD Sero urged all DILG field officers and focal persons in supporting Sangguniang Kabataan officials by providing technical assistance, mentoring, and policy guidance to ensure the smooth implementation of the GEMS for SK.

The activity forms part of DILG XII’s continuing efforts to strengthen accountability, innovation, and meaningful youth participation in local governance.