By Leilanie G. Adriano
Staff reporter
LAOAG CITY—The annual search for model families opens.
This year, at least 36 nominees will be evaluated based on how Ilocano families keep their closeness together despite modern-day distractions such as cell phones, video games, the Internet, and the pressures of school and work. They still manage to dine in together, spend quality time with each other, and be an inspiration to others.
Of the total entries, 10 will compete for “Best Nanay”, 8 for professional category, 11 for non-professional and 7 for Overseas Filipino Workers category.
Launched in 1995, the search for model family has been initiated by the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte to further promote good family practices and values worth emulating for a progressive community.
Nelinda Erice, Gender and Development (GAD) office head said the Provincial Awards and Screening Committee composed of representatives of the Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Education, Philippine National Police, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources, Provincial Health Office, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, Office of the Provincial Agriculture, Overseas Filipino Workers, Non-government organization, GAD and Ilocos Norte board member Conrado Respicio, in his capacity as chair of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan’s committee on family relations will be moving from town to town and cities here to personally conduct interview and ocular visit to the homes of these nominees apart from scrutinizing their documentary write ups.
According to Ms. Erice, the search is open to all families in Ilocos Norte. However, the towns of Paoay, Bangui, Adams, Dumalneg, Carasi and Marcos have no entries this year.
With a cash reward and trophy, winners will be awarded in a fitting ceremony on September.