LUNA, Apayao – Governor Elias C. Bulut, Jr. underscored that one of the primary reasons why the provincial government is going all in in for its efforts to entice the yApayao youth to join the military ranks is to expedite the socio-economic development of the province, ultimately benefiting the families and the community of the enlisted personnel.
In his talk during the courtesy visit of the 22 newly minted yApayao Marines last September 5, 2023, Gov. Bulut, Jr. elaborated on the rationale behind this innovative recruitment program.
Bulut emphasized the role that the program plays in contributing to the province’s overall economic growth by reducing unemployment rate, eliminating insurgency, and strengthening social cohesion in the community by inspiring others to improve their economic conditions.
His strategic vision for the recruitment program is rooted in the belief that by offering yApayaos an opportunity to serve in the military, they will not only contribute to the country’s defense but also empower themselves and their communities economically.
“Our AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) recruitment program is one of our shortcuts to development. It serves a dual purpose – not only does it help strengthen our national defense, but it also offers our youth a pathway to personal and communal progress.” Bulut, Jr. said.
The recruitment program is one of the components of Apayao Socio-Economic Efforts Needed for Growth (ASENG) and is part of a broader effort by the provincial government to address various challenges, including unemployment and a desire for improved economic prospects. Gov. Bulut, Jr. firmly believes that by nurturing a spirit of patriotism and service among yApayao youth, they will be better equipped to face the future.
This program is specifically designed to target out-of-school youth, the poorest of the poor, and those residing in the remote corners of the province. To date, more than 700 yApayaos have already benefited from this program and are now serving in various branches of the Philippine military, including the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marines. By PIO Apayao
