Ilocos Norte youth leaders, scholars hold outreach program
LAOAG CITY, Dec. 30 (PNA) — Hundreds of youth scholars and volunteers in Ilocos Norte are conducting Christmas outreach in various parts of the province as part of their year-end activities.
The outreach was organized and funded by the beneficiaries of the provincial government’s young leaders scholarship program.
Dubbed as “Sagut nga Ayat” (Gift of Love), the event is one of the leaders and scholars’ ways to give back to their own community.
James Ventura, Director of Ilocos Norte Youth Development Office (INYDO), said the activity aims to “bring happiness to the less fortunate and provide the scholars an avenue for community immersion.”
Since Tuesday, gift giving activities have been held in four areas: Currimao town in the south zone, Piddig town in the East zone, Bangui town in the north zone, and Brgy. La Paz, Laoag City in the central zone.
Children 15 years below were given gifts containing school supplies and were later treated with games.
Meanwhile, youth aged 30 years and below were provided tutorials and peer counselling.
Parents and elders were also given noche buena packages. The youth volunteers also took advantage of the opportunity to discuss to them the programs and projects of the provincial government which they can avail.
“The scholars were happy to help their fellow and learn about life in other communities,” Ventura shared.
Socialization activities among youth volunteers in the province were also conducted.
“For Governor Ma. Imelda Josefa Marcos, this is a way for the youth to build stronger ties and learn as one family. We believe that constant socialization will further strengthen our youth,” Ventura added.
Last year, the Christmas outreach program was held in only one barangay in Marcos town.
“We hope that (in the coming years), all other scholarship program beneficiaries of the province will join the cause,” Ventura said, expressing INYDO’s continuing support to such efforts.
“We do not only need smart scholars, but also those who have the heart to serve. These activities are part of our vision to hone Ilocanos who are willing to serve our province,” he concluded. (PNA)
