Scholars get stipends

To eliminate poverty by prioritizing programs on education, Governor Imee Marcos welcomed a new set of Sirib youth scholars during the distribution of their stipends last February 11, 2015 at the Provincial Capitol Auditorium, Laoag City.

Gov. Marcos said that PGIN intensifies its support on education because it is still the “number one pathway out of poverty.”

She also emphasized that unlike any other scholarship programs which focus on the academic qualifications of their beneficiaries, the Sirib youth leaders scholarship program gives a chance to the poor but deserving students who have the commitment to serve their fellowmen and community.

John Raymond Pascua of Brgy. 12, Laoag City, one of the beneficiaries, said the financial assistance is a big help to him since he is a self-supporting student.

He grew up with his grandparents who unfortunately passed away a few years ago. He could not depend on his separated parents who now live with their own families.

After graduating from high school, Pascua worked as encoder, store and office assistant for three years in order to earn  money to finance his studies.

He is presently enrolled in the Mariano Marcos State University-College of Teacher Education as a second year student. He continues to do part-time jobs to support his daily needs.

Pascua admitted that his present situation is hard but with the financial assistance given by the provincial government, he hopes to fulfill his dreams.

“I want to become a teacher someday. When I was in high school, my teachers helped and inspired me, so this is my way of giving back. (I want to help) other people and to serve the province as well,” he said.

Pascua expressed his gratitude to Gov. Marcos for assisting poor but deserving students like him.

“I hope the program will last to reach out for more less fortunate youth in the province,” he said.

Defining the scholars as a “family for life,” Gov. Marcos assured that the provincial government will try its best to provide alternatives to any problem they may face especially in seeking quality jobs in the province.—Jennifer T. Pambid, PGIN-CMO