Manila: At least two municipal governments in Ilocos Norte are granting assistance to their graduate students to ease the financial burden as they prepare for their professional board examinations. "More than just a monetary aid, this program represents our commitment to invest in the youth of Currimao - our future teachers, engineers, nurses, lawyers, accountants, and other professionals who will soon serve and uplift our community," Mayor Edward Quilala said in an interview.
According to Philippines News Agency, under their "PATH TO PASS: Review and Examination Assistance Program," Currimao Vice Mayor Judith Quilala stated that some 30 college graduates preparing for their board exams were given PHP10,000 each for the program's initial implementation starting this month. The offices of the mayor and vice mayor have collaborated on this initiative, hoping that the cash assistance will enable examinees to focus more on their preparation and achieve success in their chosen fields.
To avail of the financial assistance program, applicants are required to submit several documents, including a certificate of residency, diploma and transcript of records, certificate of indigency, notice of admission from the Professional Regulatory Commission, and two 2x2 ID pictures to the Office of the Mayor.
Apart from Currimao, the Carasi municipal government is also executing the same program through an approved municipal ordinance. This ordinance grants financial aid to college graduates who are about to take their board examinations. In a report from the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office of Carasi, at least four examinees have already benefited from the program. These beneficiaries include Ria Jose and Kristine Joy Domingo from Barangay Virbira, and Ma. Kristine Joy Pulsic and Summer Rose Ramon from Barangay Barbaqueso.
"This initiative reaffirms our commitment to invest in education, empower our graduates, and support their aspirations of becoming licensed professionals," the Carasi municipal government stated. Carasi is predominantly inhabited by indigenous peoples.