SENSTOR Alan Peter Cayetano urged Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials in Taguig and Laoag to focus on building the right environment for young people, stressing that this is key to keeping them away from negative influences.

“Trabaho niyo sa SK is to create the right environment para ang youth natin ay hindi maligaw ng landas,” Cayetano told youth leaders during the SK benchmarking event.

He underscored the need for opportunities and sustainable programs—such as sports, scholarships, and community centers—that guide the youth toward positive pursuits and away from vices like drugs and gambling.

“Ang hirap sabihin sa bata, ‘huwag ka mag-drugs’ tapos wala kang programa. So while we tell them, ‘huwag ka mag-drugs,’ may scholarship tayo para mag-aral, may youth centers tayo where they can go, may sports facilities so that they can do that. We have to create that environment,” he explained.

Cayetano likened people to seeds that thrive only when planted in the right soil, emphasizing the crucial role of environment in shaping behavior and success.

“You owe it to them to be a good seed in a good environment and you owe it to them to provide that environment so that they have all the chances to succeed,” he told the SK leaders.

He also urged them to craft long-term initiatives for their communities.

“Napakasarap tulungan ’yung tumutulong sa kanilang sarili. It’s not about the fans, it’s not about yung laki ng barangay ninyo… It’s about your initiative, your vision, your purpose,” he added.