PGIN empowers board takers through financial assistance 

The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN), led by Gov. Matthew Marcos Manotoc, supported almost 120 board takers through the Review and Examination Assistance Program (REAP) at the Provincial Capitol Auditorium on March 24.

REAP was launched in 2024 by the Ilocos Norte Youth Development Office (INYDO) to help graduates in their licensure examinations. Established through Provincial Ordinance No. 057-2023, the program addresses the financial burden felt by post-graduates, aiming to lessen the costs of e

xam preparations.

Each beneficiary, including criminology, mechanical engineers, and teacher education exam takers and passers, received Php 4,000 to cover review fees, transportation costs, and other exam-related expenses.

Gov. Marcos Manotoc reaffirmed the province’s commitment to supporting graduates in their professional careers, aligning REAP with the government’s education-to-employment initiatives.

"Napakagandang programa ito para sa inyo. This is to make sure na wala nang roadblock or impediments sa pagka-licensed ninyo. Sa lahat ng ating mga professionals at soon-to-be professionals, the provincial government is open for you," he remarked.

Moreover, Mr. Willie Jake Sib-at, officer-in-charge of INYDO, emphasized ongoing improvements to the program, ensuring prompt assistance delivery, saying:

“We are working on improving the distribution system to ensure the assistance reaches the examinees prior to their exams. We are also trying to increase the number of slots and benefits.”

Meanwhile, Angelo Guillermo, a newly-licensed criminologist, expressed his gratitude for the aid, which will help him attend his upcoming oath-taking ceremony in Pasay City on March 30. 

“Since madama ti licensure examination season, daytoy nga assistance a naawatmi ket dakkel a tulong para kadaytoy panag exam ken oath-takingmi,” he shared.

(Since the licensure examination season is ongoing, the financial assistance that we received provides support that can be used for our exam and oath-taking)

PGIN allocated over Php 500,000 for the fourth batch of the REAP, sustaining its commitment to empowering Ilokano youth in achieving their desired profession.

Recognizing the importance of professional licensure in securing employment, the provincial government plans to open the applications for the second quarter of REAP next week.