SPMs Distrito, Villarosa Push Creation of Bacolod Youth Civic and Parliamentary Education Program

City Councilor Atty. Caesar Distrito has introduced a proposed ordinance creating the Bacolod Youth Civic and Parliamentary Education Program, a measure aimed at strengthening democratic participation, legislative awareness, and responsible citizenship among the youth, and was approved on First Reading by the Sangguniang Panlungsod.

The measure seeks to establish a citywide Youth Civic and Parliamentary Education Program under the supervision of the Youth Affairs Office and the Sangguniang Panlungsod. The program aims to provide young Bacolodnons with a deeper understanding of democratic institutions, legislative processes, constitutional principles, and civic responsibilities.

“The youth play a vital role in nation-building. As future leaders and active citizens, they must be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate meaningfully in governance and public affairs,” Atty. Distrito said.

Under the proposal, the program will include mock Sangguniang Panlungsod sessions and legislative simulations, parliamentary procedure workshops, youth governance immersion activities, seminars on the Constitution and local governance, and civic responsibility and anti-disinformation campaigns.

Distrito emphasized that the initiative seeks to encourage informed participation in democratic processes and develop a generation of young leaders committed to public service, accountability, and good governance.

He noted that the importance of parliamentary education is especially relevant today as the Philippine Senate continues to debate proposed changes to its internal rules and procedures. According to Distrito, such discussions provide a timely opportunity for young people to learn how legislative bodies operate, how rules shape democratic deliberation, and why parliamentary procedures are essential in ensuring transparency, order, and accountability in government.

Councilor Jason Villarosa expressed support for the measure, noting that civic education remains an important tool in empowering young people to be engaged members of their communities.

“The proposed program will provide valuable opportunities for our youth to better understand how government works and how they can contribute to the development of our city and our democracy,” Villarosa said.

The ordinance encourages the participation of public and private schools, universities, Sangguniang Kabataan organizations, and accredited youth organizations throughout Bacolod City.*