Ilocos Norte to start athletic scholarship next school year

By Jennifer T. Pambid

LAOAG CITY -- The provincial government will be offering ‘Sirib’ athletic scholarship starting school year 2017-2018 for Ilocano youth.

Provincial Ordinance No. 005-2016 sponsored by senior board Member Matthew Marcos Manotoc was approved with around 50 athletes will be added to scholarship beneficiaries.

Under the program, underprivileged yet deserving youth athletes will be able to continue their studies until college while enhancing their skills and talents in their respective fields.

Elementary and high school scholars will be given P6,000 per school year while college scholars will receive P31,300 for two semesters.

Beneficiaries will be chosen based on their athletic performances, need for financial assistance, and willingness to finish studies.

Manotoc added out-of-school youth are also encouraged to avail of the scholarship program.

Each beneficiary must maintain at least 80% average without failing grades. He or she must also render at least 30 hours of community service to the province.

Next year, the first province-wide summer youth sports program will be held in order to promote overall wellness, “encourage Ilocano youth to start playing sports and become active (as well as) discover potential athlete beneficiaries of the ‘Sirib’ athletic scholarship,” said Manotoc.

 provincial government also offers Sirib Academic Scholarship, Sirib Young Leaders Scholarship, and Sirib Community Leaders Scholarship through the Ilocos Norte Youth Office.