Bill to develop future gov’t leaders filed

Bill to develop future gov’t leaders filed | Daily Tribune

The National Public Service College Act of 2025, a landmark bill that seeks to establish the National Public Service College (NPSC) as the country’s premier training ground for future government leaders has been filed by Senator Loren Legarda to cultivate a new generation of ethical, skilled and competent civil servants.

Unlike traditional academic institutions, the NPSC will offer a curriculum designed by key government agencies to equip students with technical, administrative and leadership skills tailored for public service.

“The youth are often seen as the future of our nation, and we must harness their energy, innovation and leadership potential by providing them with sufficient tools and real opportunities to shape governance. This bill seeks to establish a structured, merit-based pathway for young Filipinos who are eager to serve in government,” Legarda emphasized.

As of June 2024, the Civil Service Commission (CSC) reported that employees within the youth age bracket of 18-25 years old comprised only 1.56 percent of the Philippine government workforce. Meanwhile, those aged 26-35 made up 29.63 percent. In total, 18-35 years old government employees hold 31.15 percent of the 2nd Level Career Service. But despite their relatively strong presence in government personnel service, ages 18-35 hold just 16.74 percent of the elected positions

In contrast, the 36-65 age group dominates decision-making, accounting for 68.81 percent of the workforce, 68.85 percent of the second level career service and 83.26 percent of elective roles.

Systemic deficiencies

Compounding these challenges are systemic deficiencies within the Philippine civil service: a deficiency in technical expertise, ethical lapses, and a misalignment of job roles that hinder effective governance. New hires often grapple with steep learning curves, while mid and senior-level officials frequently lack essential skills in strategic planning and implementation. These shortcomings undermine efficiency, foster corruption and erode public trust in governmental institutions.

This proposed bill seeks to infuse younger, specially trained public servants into government and expand opportunities for youth leaders to take on greater decision-making responsibilities, ensuring a more dynamic and forward-thinking public service.

The NPSC seeks to gradually reverse this trend by producing at least 200 leadership-ready graduates annually, all of whom will be required to serve the government for a specified number of years. Graduates will automatically gain Civil Service Commission Level II Eligibility, streamlining their entry into government service.

The proposed curriculum will cover key areas essential for public service. It includes Constitutional and Legal Frameworks, such as the 1987 Constitution, Administrative Code and Local Government Code. As core courses, students will study Strategic Planning, Budgeting, Procurement, Implementation, Digital Governance, Monitoring, Evaluation, Futures Thinking and Public Policy Development equipping them with tools for efficient government operations.

Specialized subjects will also be offered such as Foreign Affairs, Social Work, Disaster Risk Management, among others. A strong emphasis will be placed on Integrity and Ethics in Public Service, including studying the Anti-Red Tape and other anti-corruption laws, to ensure graduates uphold accountability and professionalism.