Manotoc calls for global Ilokano homecoming in 3rd SOPA

Laoag City—Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Joseph M. Manotoc delivered his third State of the Province Address (SOPA) on Oct. 8, 2024 at the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena, urging global Ilokanos to return to their roots and invest in their homeland.

The event was attended by more than 8,000 audience, comprised of provincial officials, local chief executives, representatives from national government agencies, non-government organizations, barangay officials, sectoral representatives, and leaders from various communities.

In his address, Manotoc began by acknowledging the challenges posed by the recent onslaught of super typhoon "Julian," which caused widespread devastation across the province. Despite this, he emphasized the resilience of the Ilokano people, stating:

"It is during our most challenging moments that we prove to you that we are a provincial government you can depend on. Sa gitna ng kalamidad, matatag ang mga Ilokano. Naandurtayo!”

As the address progressed, Manotoc placed a strong emphasis on calling Ilokanos abroad to return and invest in their homeland.

He stated, "We need all Ilokanos in fields such as healthcare, engineering, academe, entrepreneurship, hospitality, information technology, and agriculture. To all my fellow Ilokanos, may you reconnect with your roots, share your expertise, and invest in our people to contribute to the growth of our province."

He highlighted significant achievements, including advancements in agriculture, economic growth, infrastructure development, improved healthcare facilities, environmental sustainability, and a thriving tourism sector.

Manotoc also underscored the importance of unity and collaboration in driving progress, saying, "To all my fellow Ilokanos across the globe, I call upon you to come back home. Now is the time for us to return to our roots. Now is the time to invest in our people and develop our economy. Now is our time."

The governor expressed his deep gratitude to the secretaries of various national government agencies, regional directors, and department heads of the provincial government for their support in implementing programs that uplift the lives of the people of Ilocos Norte.

Moreover, he challenged the Ilokano community, stating, “Let us build our economy to be ready for the future. Let us build the Ilocos Norte we dream of. Let us build the Ilocos Norte that will take care of our children and their children.”

Ending his speech, Manotoc expressed heartfelt appreciation, saying, “I thank you for granting me the greatest honor of my life: to serve you and our almost 610,000 kakailian. It is a responsibility that I do not take lightly. My dearest kakailian in Ilocos Norte, simmangbayen, ti narimrimat, a masakbayan! (Mariell J. Pahinag)

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