Iloilo City – Mayor Jerry P. Treñas of Iloilo City has expressed his hopes for Jelma Crystel Implica, the newly-elected federation president of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) in Iloilo City, to be a team player as she joins the Sangguniang Panlungsod as an ex-officio member. Implica, a 23-year-old registered nurse, was elected unopposed as president of the SK Federation of Iloilo City on Tuesday, along with other SK officials. She is currently in her second term as SK chair of Barangay Jereos in the La Paz district and previously served as the Public Relations Officer of the federation during her first term.
According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Treñas, the president's role as a team player is crucial since she will be working with other council members and will need their support for passing resolutions and ordinances. In his message following the officials' proclamation and oath-taking, Treñas encouraged them to find inspiration in their roles, develop leadership skills, and cultivate a love for their country, which he views as the foundations of public service. He emphasized the importance of utilizing their constitutional right to vote for leaders and to develop leadership skills. The mayor also announced a PHP1-million fund as their initial budget.
In a media interview, Implica expressed her passion and intention to serve the youth of Iloilo City, stating plans to discuss and formulate plans, programs, and activities for the benefit of the young people. Oscar Lim, the Interior and Local Government Director for Iloilo City, said Implica is set to perform as an ex-officio member at the city council in the next session, presenting her proclamation and oath of office documents. Other elected officials of the SK federation include Julienne Jeanjaquet as vice president, Jason Octavio as secretary, Raisen Benedict as treasurer, Yanni Ysabel Panaguiton as auditor, John Paul Elmar as public relations officer, and Mike Elumba as sergeant-at-arms.