Manila: Young graduates in Ilocos Norte province have expressed their willingness to build their careers in their home province, citing growing opportunities in public service, entrepreneurship, agriculture, tourism, healthcare, education, and other expanding industries.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a recognition ceremony of government scholars who graduated with Latin honors at the Ilocos Norte Capitol auditorium, 22-year-old Reinabelle Junice Manuel, a cum laude graduate of Bachelor of Science in Education at the state-run Mariano Marcos State University, stated her openness to staying in Ilocos Norte and contributing her knowledge and skills to the province's continued growth. "I am who I am today because of the scholarship program of the provincial government," she said in a media interview on Wednesday. Manuel expressed her excitement to explore the world but emphasized her desire to first share her skills and give back to her home province.
Another government scholar, Mark Laurence Agustin, encouraged his fellow youth to be the "light and hope" of Ilocos Norte. He urged his peers to dream big and pursue their aspirations while remembering their roots. "The true meaning of success is not just about ourselves but for every person we were able to uplift," he remarked.
The graduates' positive response came after Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos and Vice Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc encouraged them to consider building their future in the province. The top provincial officials noted the need for skilled and committed young professionals to help drive innovation, strengthen public services, and support economic development in Ilocos Norte.
The provincial government is actively expanding scholarship opportunities and youth development programs to prepare students for the workforce and encourage them to contribute to the province after graduation. Both officials highlighted that retaining local talent is crucial for sustaining long-term growth and ensuring that investments in education benefit Ilocos Norte's communities.
