To provide more educational opportunities to Ilocano youth, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte will be offering “Sirib” athletic scholarships starting school year 2017-2018.
Through Provincial Ordinance No. 005-2016 sponsored by Senior Board Member Matthew Marcos Manotoc, about 50 athletes will be added to the province’s scholarship program beneficiaries.
“We’re happy to provide another opportunity for our youth that are not only academic or community-oriented, also now with sports. I hope it will encourage youth to play sports and become scholars,” Manotoc said.
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 their studies.
Manotoc added that out-of-school youth are encouraged to avail of the scholarships.
Each beneficiary must maintain at least 80 percent grade 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 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.
The provincial government also offers Sirib Academic Scholarship, Sirib Young Leaders Scholarship, and Sirib Community Leaders Scholarship through the Ilocos Norte Youth Office.