This qualitative study examined the challenges and coping strategies of Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials in Calanasan, Apayao, through thematic analysis of interviews with ten respondents. Findings revealed ten major challenges, including incomplete SK councils, youth apathy, administrative inexperience, academic load, limited funding, political interference, and weak community engagement. Despite these obstacles, SK officials employed adaptive coping strategies such as task delegation, use of social media, time management, self-learning, mentorship, and positive reframing. The study also proposed eight policy recommendations to address structural gaps and promote more inclusive, transparent, and sustainable youth governance. Overall, the study highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of young leaders, emphasizing the need for institutional support and reforms to strengthen the effectiveness of the SK in local governance.