Cindy Grace A. Guerbo1, Dorie Lyn O. Balanoba1, John Oliver Tablazon2
Background: The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Reform Act of 2015 requires each of the Katipunan ng Kabataan to maintain a youth registry to support evidence-based policymaking and program design. However, most SK units still rely on manual lists with limited demographic data, hindering the ability to assess youth participation meaningfully. This initiative aimed to enhance youth profiling and improve program targeting by developing a system that measures youth engagement across nine centers of participation: health, education, economic empowerment, social inclusion and equity, peacebuilding and security, governance, active citizenship, environment, and global mobility.
Methods: To address these gaps, the Zuellig Family Foundation (ZFF), with United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) support, created the Youth Participation Action Record (YPAR) tool. It was later digitized as the YPAR Data Management System (YPAR-DMS) in response to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) restrictions. The pilot was conducted in seven local government units (LGUs) in Sarangani Province. Using KoBoToolbox, the digital survey captured detailed data from SK officials, youth leaders, and youth in the community. Local youth development officers and information and communication technology (ICT) staff were engaged to ensure usability and contextual fit. The YPAR-DMS produced real-time analytics and visual reports for local decision-makers
Results: The system significantly improved youth profiling and program responsiveness. In one LGU, data revealed high rates of depression and suicidal ideation among youth, leading to the immediate launch of mental health interventions. The platform fostered collaboration among LGUs, youth groups, and ICT teams, highlighting its adaptability for broader use.
Conclusions: The YPAR-DMS demonstrated strong potential for scaling up youth data systems. It enabled timely, evidence-based interventions and promoted intersectoral collaboration. Continued refinement, training, and policy integration will be key to its sustainable implementation nationwide.
