BAGUIO CITY (PIA) – The provincial government of Apayao recently held the first Apayao Outstanding Youth or APOY Awards recognizing the superb achievements, milestones and contributions of the youth in their communities, and to the province as a whole.
Board Member Kyle Mariah Chelsea Bulut-Cunan and former Sangguniang Kabataan federation president Wenz Nathaly Cagat-Alferez led the awarding of the first batch of APOY awardees in Luna town.
The Leadership and Character awardees were Calanasan municipal councilor Naville Taccalan, the Secretary- General of the Philippine Councilors League – Apayao, and chairperson of the National Movement of Young Legislators – Cordillera region, and Chris Michael Palalay, agriculturist and entrepreneur who manages a successful mushroom business, and sharing his success to his fellow Yapayaos.
Academic Excellence awardees were math wizard Emil Peterson Borromeo who won awards and recognitions in and out of the country, and Nielmer Cabacungan, a top provincial scholar who graduated as cum laude.
Sports excellence awardees were Mhage Gerriahlou Sebastian, the first woman national master in chess in CAR, and winner of various competitions here and abroad, and lady baller Rose Anne Pedronan who represented Apayao and CAR in the previous Palarong Pambansa and other basketball competitions.
Arts Excellence awardees were Aldous Gabriel Pelobello who excels in photography and painting, and Jarence Joy Luban in the field of journalism, debate, and essay writing.
These awardees received plaques, and cash prize of P20,000 each.
There were also seven finalists who received certificates and P5,000 cash prize each.
“Congratulations to the APOY awardees, your success is not just a personal triumph, but a shared victory for the entire province of Apayao. May this celebration ignite a spark of inspiration that continues to illuminate the path of greatness for generations to come,” Cunanan said.
The awards program was initiated last year with the goal to motivate and uplift the Yapayao youths in showcasing their skills and talents in their respective fields to include leadership, character, competence, professionalism, service, excellence in sports, and impact on the community. (JDP/RMC- PIA-CAR / Apayao PIO photos)
