The Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials of Barangay Labangon have broken their silence over the controversy surrounding their Thailand trip and allegations of fund misuse, saying they are ready to present their accomplishments and activities to the public.
In a statement released on May 10, the youth officials denied claims circulating on social media that public funds were used for the trip, describing the accusations as “false, malicious, and completely without factual basis.”
The issue resurfaced online following criticisms questioning the legitimacy of the travel and the alleged lack of visible youth programs in the barangay.
The SK officials maintained that no public money was spent on personal travel and that all required procedures were properly followed.
They also said they support transparency and accountability and are willing to address concerns through proper legal and administrative channels once Commission on Audit (COA) reviews and documentation are completed.
“These matters should be discussed in the proper forum, with the right quorum and authorities, dili pinaagi sa trial by social media,” the statement read.
The youth officials also responded to allegations that they failed to implement projects while in office, saying they are prepared to publicly present their programs, activities, and services.
According to the group, not all initiatives were posted online, but all activities can be properly accounted for.
The officials also criticized the spread of unverified information online, saying social media should not be used to damage reputations without evidence.
Alongside the statement, the group posted copies of a signed travel authority allegedly approved by Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival Sr. and endorsed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
The move appeared intended to answer renewed allegations that the Thailand trip lacked official authorization.
Among the criticisms reposted by the SK officials was a statement from social media personality Rian Bacalla, who earlier questioned how the youth officials allegedly managed to travel abroad while supposedly failing to conduct enough youth-centered programs in Barangay Labangon.
Other online posts also revived earlier claims regarding the alleged absence of a travel authority, citing previous remarks made by Archival earlier this year.
In January 2026, Archival said he could not recall signing or approving any travel authority related to the trip involving the SK officials.
At the time, the mayor clarified that public officials are not prohibited from traveling using personal funds and said wrongdoing cannot automatically be assumed in the absence of government spending.
The controversy first gained attention after Bacalla posted criticism on Facebook on Dec. 31, 2025, questioning both the trip and the visibility of youth programs in Barangay Labangon.
Despite the backlash, the SK officials said they remain committed to serving the community “with honesty, transparency, and integrity.” (LLP)
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