PGA Strengthens Youth Programs

by Issanne S. Villaruel

The Provincial Government of Aklan (PGA) under the leadership of newly-elected Provincial Governor Jose Enrique M. Miraflores assured Aklanons during his first one hundred days accomplishment report, that the provincial government shall continue to provide student allowances, scholarships, and develop projects and programs for the holistic development of the Aklanon youth.

“The Provincial Government continues to provide student allowances to qualified students under its scholarship assistance program and educational assistance to students in crisis situations,” said Miraflores. As of July 2022 up to present, a total of 1,011 student-beneficiaries have been assisted by the province with an additional of over two thousand student-beneficiaries set to receive allowances in the next scheduled distribution. One hundred ten (110) beneficiaries of the Special Program for the employment of students (SPES) who completed their summer jobs have also received their respective cash assistance from the provincial government.

The provincial government has likewise extended financial incentives to Aklanon athletes who have competed in the international level, one of which is Pencak Silat Gold Medalist Mary Francine C. Padios. Financial assistance was also provided to amateur athletes in the Barangay and Municipal levels.

The upgrading of the ABL Sports and Cultural Center into an air-conditioned facility and the transformation of the Aklan Sports Complex in Calangcang, Makato, Aklan into a full-fledged Aklan Recreation and Sports Center which will include a covered gymnasium for indoor sports with kiddie pools, slides and rock climbing facilities are also among Miraflores’ key priorities in encouraging physical activities for the youth.

Bent in developing the skills and talents of the Aklanon youth, the Provincial Government is likewise supportive of various youth programs such as the Aklan Kulture Movement Expose, the Celebration of the Linggo ng Kabataan and a cultural contest of Aklanon song and dances.