By Leilanie G. Adriano
Staff Reporter
LAOAG CITY—The Ilocos Norte Provincial library i-hub is offering free internet service and wi-fi access to students undergoing online class in this time of “new normal”.
In a social media post on the official page of the provincial government of Ilocos Norte, the Ilocos Norte i-hub, located at the second floor of the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena announced a new section has been added to the library called, ‘TeknoAklatan’. This is a digital library containing a collection or database of digital books (e-books) covering various subjects and accessed through the computers at the library i-hub.
With the extended modified general community quarantine in the province where computer shops are not yet permitted to open, Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Joseph M. Manotoc said students who lack computers at home or having problems with slow internet and wi-fi connectivity can avail of the i-hub’s new services for free.
At present, some students in the province are struggling with their online classes due to limited gadget and poor internet connectivity.
To help students cope with online schooling, a Sangguniang Kabataan youth hub was recently launched at Brgy. Gayamat in Piddig, Ilocos Norte to provide free PHP100 worth of internet load good for a week, free unlimited printing for school requirements and free stationary materials as needed.
The program was initiated by the SK council in the area to ensure that fellow students will not be left behind under the online schooling as part of the new normal.
For students who wish to avail of the said program, the SK Piddig advises them to just submit to the youth hub their proof of enrollment this semester, school I.D. and any document that can prove enrollment to an online class.
Meanwhile, the Ilocos Norte government however reiterated that wearing of face mask when going outside residence is mandatory and physical distancing must be observed at all times.