Ilocos norte: Youth centers across Ilocos Norte are set to receive PHP100,000 each following the approval of an ordinance institutionalizing government support for youth development and strengthening programs that empower young people.

According to Philippines News Agency, the ordinance, known as the "Support para sa Inobasyon, Kabataan at Lakas ng Bayan" (SIKLAB) ordinance of 2026, provides sustainable assistance, leadership development opportunities, and resources that empower youth organizations to create meaningful and lasting impacts in their communities. Eldritze Viernes, the Ilocos Norte Youth Development Council (INYDC) chairperson and Provincial Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President, expressed that this milestone reflects a shared commitment to investing in the next generation of leaders.

The SIKLAB ordinance was unanimously approved by the members of the Ilocos Norte Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board) on Monday afternoon. The ordinance strengthens institutional support for the INYDC with guaranteed annual funding for each of the 10 Centers of Youth Participation identified under the Philippine Youth Development Plan. The areas of participation include agriculture, economic empowerment, education, environment, governance, health, peacebuilding and security, social inclusion and equity, global mobility, and active citizenship.

Under the ordinance, eligible member-organizations with good standing will also receive assistance of up to PHP50,000 every year in the form of goods, supplies, materials, equipment, or services necessary for implementing approved youth-led programs, projects, and activities. The assistance will not be released as direct cash assistance but will instead be provided through the procurement of approved items and services in accordance with existing government accounting and procurement laws, rules, and regulations.

In preparation for the implementation of the program next year, all INYDC member-organizations were asked to start identifying and developing their respective flagship programs and projects. The proposals will be presented and deliberated upon during the council's third quarter regular session in September for the annual planning and programming process.