by Crisdeniele H. Clemente

Nurtured in a holistic learning environment, a Grade 12 student of the Mariano Marcos State University-Laboratory High School (MMSU-LHS)- City of Batac, has been appointed to serve as Junior Governor of Ilocos Norte. 

Mr. Josh Rafael Fagaragan took his oath of office yesterday, August 22, at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Session Hall. As a junior governor, his tasks are to execute policies for the youth sector, and to serve as the youth representative under the provincial government. 

Fagaragan expressed his excitement about the experience. He said, “I will join the community outreach programs of the provincial government, and encourage the Ilokano youth to participate in government projects.” 

Having undergone a screening process facilitated by the local government members, Fagaragan will lead other appointed junior officials from various schools in the province. 

The SIRIB LiNKS Junior Officials program has been running for 5 years now, as part of the celebration of  ‘Linggo ng Kabataan’ (Youth Week). This initiative aims to select young leaders to engage in legislative writing and parliamentary process, thereby acquainting them with the responsibilities of public servants and nation-builders. 

Mr. Fagaragan was the President of the Student Body Government of MMSU-LHS last academic year. (HLY/JVBT, StratCom)