FLORA, Apayao—With an aim to reach out and inspire yApayao children to push for their education, the Provincial Government through the initiative of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office turned over learning materials on June 3 in time with the blessing and inauguration of the newly constructed P2.67 million worth Balasi Child Development Center in Barangay Balasi, Flora, Apayao.
Governor Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang and Social Welfare Officer Iris Venus Sana along with other Provincial and Municipal officials handed over 28 copies of story books, 28 copies of coloring books and six (6) copies of tracing books to Child Development Worker Jovelyn M. Pulinday as primary materials of the said center.
Considering the need to provide more learning materials and other necessities, Gov. Leah told Pulinday and Punong Barangay Romeo Calip, Jr. to closely coordinate with the PSWDO for additional assistance the Provincial Government could give. She also advised the barangay officials to take good care of the new center and all the learning materials in order to serve well the kids in the barangay.
As most children living in Balasi are aetas, the Governor challenged them to finish their studies and become professionals. She informed them of the availability of scholarship and the willingness to support poor but deserving students.
In response to the blessings they received, the children serenaded the Governor, Mayor Rodolfo Juan and other visitors. Calip thanked the Governor, Congressman Elias C. Bulut, Jr., Mayor Juan and all those who worked hard for the projects they received saying that they shall be forever grateful, thus, shall do their best to protect the center.
Meanwhile, Gov. Leah encouraged the people of Balasi not to be afraid in the vaccination program of the government. As the key officials of the province had already been vaccinated, they should not be afraid of the time when they are to be called to have their vaccines. BY GERRIAHZON S. SEBASTIAN
