By Claro
A. Lanipa
PAGADIAN
CITY – A total of 25 grantees under the
Educational Assistance Program (EAP) of the National Commission on
Indigenous Peoples (NCIP)-IX from the two districts of Zamboanga del Sur have
come to participate in the two-day journalistic writing workshop at the
Chandler Suites this city starting today.
Ms. Margarita
Baya, chief, Administrative Division, NCIP-9 who represented Regional Director
Timuey Woy Lim Wong said the programs of NCIP are geared towards the development
of our youth.
“NCIP is
looking at our youth especially our EAP grantees that they will be guided in
the right path, so that … you will be able to achieve your dreams,” Baya said.
“While we
are giving you all the assistance you need, you have also a responsibility to
pay back the assistance given to you. As an IP, or as an EAP grantee you have
to maintain your grade - at least an average of 80 percent for the regular
grantee and 85 percent for the merit-base,” Baya reminded the scholars.
“Remember
your mission is not only for yourself, but for other people who need your
help,” Baya stressed.
“There
are so many IPs in the country, but only a few are willing to stay or willing
to be tapped to the community, where the IPs are waiting for them,” Baya added.
She also challenged
the grantees to do their responsibility, as “the NCIP is doing its best to help
you.”
“Please
learn to speak your dialect, because your dialect is your identity. Reach out
to your community, know your culture (our attire, rituals) and know your
forefathers,” she continued.
“These
are the challenges that NCIP is giving you now, because if we do not preserve
our culture, 10 years, 15 years, 20 years from now, the IPs particularly the
Subanens will perished in the map,” Baya
warned.
“You have
to dream high, remember your dream will
only come true if you have the determination especially so the government has
several programs in store for you,” Baya
encouraged the youth.