PGIN gives P5,000 financial assistance to students affected by typhoon ‘Lawin’

In order to provide immediate recovery to families affected by super typhoon ‘Lawin,’ the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) will give P5,000.00 financial assistance to private college students.

According to James Ceasar Ventura, Director of Ilocos Norte Youth Office (INYO), around 5,000 slots are open for those who want to avail of the ‘AsikasoniManangImee Tuition-for-work Program.’

“Governor Imee Marcos and the provincial government continue providing support to Ilocano students who were affected by super typhoon ‘Lawin’ especially those who are children of farmers and fisher folks.”

Ventura said that the ‘AsikasoniManangImee Tuition-for-work Program’ aims to encourage students to continue their studies, even if their properties and livelihoods were damaged, instead of dropping out from school.

He added that the program prioritized private school students because “next week will be their schedule for enrollment after this week’s clearance period.”

However, they are in the process of coordinating with public colleges and state universities regarding the tuition-for-work.

To avail of the program, Ventura said applicants must pass the following requirements: letter of intent and application form (available at INYO and downloadable at Sirib Express and Sirib Ilocano KabataanAssociation facebook pages); photocopy of student ID; photocopy of a parent’s valid ID; certification of typhoon damages from barangay and municipal social welfare and development office; and enrollment form or latest copy of grades.

Depending on his or her availability, each beneficiary will need to render 160 hours of service under PGIN.

“The other objective of this program is to provide an avenue for Ilocano youth to socialize and build social capital so that they have friends to seek help from in times of emergencies and disasters.”

Last October 28 during the State of the Province Address, Governor Marcos began distributing P5,000.00 financial assistance to 223 private college students who were affected by the said typhoon.

It can be recalled that President Rodrigo Duterte, during his short visit in the province after typhoon ‘Lawin,’ approved Governor Marcos’ request for assistance to provide tuition for the children of farmers and fisher folks for the upcoming semester. (Jennifer T. Pambid, PGIN-CMO)