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 first batch of APOY awardees in Luna.
The Leadership and Character awardees were Calanasan Councilor Naville Taccalan, the secretary-general of the Philippine Councilors League-Apayao and chairperson of the National Movement of Young Legislators-Cordillera; and Chris Michael Palalay, agriculturist and entrepreneur who manages a successful mushroom business and shares 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 the Cordillera and winner of various competitions here and abroad; and lady baller Rose Anne Pedronan who represented Apayao and the region 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.
The awardees received plaques and P20,000 each.
There were also seven finalists who received certificates and P5,000 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,” Cunan said.
The awards program was initiated last year with the goal to motivate and uplift the Y-Apayao 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. – Redjie Melvic Cawis
