Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos today urged Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials and members throughout the country to serve as ambassadors of equality and inclusion.

Abalos made the call following President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s recent signing of Executive Order No. 51, s. 2023.

EO 51 has reinforced the government’s diversity and inclusion program and created the Special Committee on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual Affairs.

“I believe that the youth can best exemplify the value of respect for all people, which they can do by rejecting all forms of discrimination,” Abalos explained.

“Naniniwala ako na kayang maipamalas ng mga kabataan ang kahalagahan ng pang-unawa at pagkakaisa,” he continued.

Likewise, the DILG Chief encouraged the youth to help in addressing various challenges in their communities such as illegal drugs, the HIV/AIDS epidemic, mental health issues, and malnutrition.

“Tunay nga na may mahalagang papel ang ating mga kabataan sa pagtatamo ng ating hangarin na makamit ang isang matatag, mapayapa at maunlad na Bagong Pilipinas,” he stressed.

Original Article at: https://www.dilg.gov.ph/news/Abalos-to-SK-Be-ambassadors-of-equality-and-inclusion/NC-2023-1298