June 20, 2025 – One Year Later

As DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara pushes to promote emergency preparedness and life-saving skills through scouting, it is worth looking back at what happened a year ago.

The election for the National Executive Board of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) could have opened the door to a stronger partnership between BSP and the Department of Education (DepEd), with reports suggesting that Sonny Angara was being considered for a leadership role (National President) in the organization.

Imagine the possibilities for the youth of the Philippines:

• Stronger scouting programs in schools
• More opportunities for youth leadership training
• Better coordination between BSP and DepEd
• A more active scouting movement connected to students and education

However, some people within the organization reportedly preferred another candidate, Emilio Aquino, a former government appointee during the Duterte administration.

This has led to questions from some observers. Were decisions being made for the future of scouting, or were some individuals trying to protect their influence and maintain existing networks within the organization?

Attention has also been directed toward BSP Deputy Secretary General David Lanuza. According to reports, he allegedly expressed opposition to Angara's possible leadership by saying:

“Hindi kami papayag manalo si Sec. Angara.”

And Aquino telling Sec. Angara that – “Hindi mo kakayanin yan na magpapadala ka lang ng representative pag Board Meeting, dapat present ka.”

But before, there is a DepEd Secretary who holds the position of BSP National President.

After Emilio Aquino's term as SEC Chair was not renewed under the Marcos administration, several personnel connected to the previous leadership were affected. (Including DSG Lanuza) Because of this, some critics believe that opposition to Angara may have been influenced by concerns about political careers or competition for leadership positions within BSP.

There are also claims that, before the Board Election, certain positions had already been informally planned for specific individuals if Aquino's group won. Some insiders further allege that promises of local and international travel opportunities funded by BSP were offered to board members and regional leaders in exchange for support.

As a result, I hear members of the scouting community who knew the real story continue to ask:

• Was the opposition to Secretary Angara based on qualifications, or was it about protecting existing power structures?
• Why has BSP not achieved the same level of recognition from DepEd as the Girl Scouts of the Philippines?
• Why do concerns about governance, professionalism, and internal politics continue to arise?

BSP's leadership should focus more on reform and progress. We believe the organization should be guided by transparency, professionalism, and service to young people.

There are also reports and rumors that Emilio Aquino may run for Congress in Zamboanga in 2028. This led to the question whether he is using BSP to support future political ambitions. However, these claims remain unverified.

Are you aware that this is happening in the BSP? or are your thoughts same with mine?