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| Mhage Sebastian |
By Jennifer T. Pambid
PGIN-CMO
For bringing honor to the province and inspiring their fellow to harness their world-class talents and skills, 162 Ilocano youth were recognized through the Sirib Youth Awards 2016 organized by the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN).
Now on its third year, the event was held on February 13, 2016 at the Imelda Cultural Center in Batac City and part of Ilocos Norte’s 198th Foundation Anniversary.
Ilocos Norte Governor Maria Imelda “Imee” R. Marcos said that as Ilocos Norte gears up for its bicentennial anniversary on 2018, it is important to highlight the involvement of the Ilocano youth in achieving sustainable development.
Ilocos Norte Youth Office OIC June Arvin C. Gudoy said, “The Sirib Youth Awards aims to recognize young Ilocanos who brought prestige to the province through their participation in various national and international competitions.”
The awardees came from different fields including academics, leadership, sports, journalism, culture and arts.
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| Jesson Cid (in black) |
They were led by international awardee Mhage Gerriahlouh Sebastian of Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte who won in the 16th ASEAN Age Group Chess Championship.
Special awards were also given to board exam topnotchers including Carlo Magno Vistro (Top 8 of Nursing Licensure Examination on June 2015), Dennis Pungtilan (Top 10 of Registered Master Electrician Licensure Examination on September 2015) and Danah Mae Arzadon (Top 6 of Nursing Licensure Exam on November 2015).
Along with certificates of recognition, medals and trophies, they received cash incentives from the provincial government. Coaches and advisers of winning participants were also recognized.
On behalf of her fellow awardees, Ms. Sebastian expressed her gratitude to Ms. Marcos for her continuous support to the Ilocano youth and for further inspiring them to pursue great achievements.
“Salamat po sa pagpapahalaga niyo sa simpleng kontribusyon namin sa bayan. Sana patuloy niyo pong isulong ang kapakanan naming mga kabataan upang mas lalo pang mahasa ang mga talento namin at sa gayon patuloy po kaming makapagbigay-karangalan sa bayan.”
John Lester Alos, Champion in the 17th Inkblots National Campus Journalism Fellowship Newswriting Category who is also a beneficiary of PGIN’s Iskolar ni Manang Imee Program, also thanked the governor for the endless opportunities she is giving to the Ilocano youth. He further expressed his desire to serve the province in the future.
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| Coro San Nicoleño |
In her speech, Ms. Marcos said the awardees deserve to be recognized for upholding the province’s vision “Pasingkedan ti kinatan-ok ni Ilocano” (Uphold Ilocano greatness).
“They are the pride and joy of our race and today we give honor to their hard work, resilience, extraordinary talent, capability and their resourcefulness in the phase of many challenges. Their continued efforts, hard work and industry indeed characterize the very best of what is Ilocano.