LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) – Ilokanos showed their support in the second State of the Province Address (SOPA) of Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc held on September 18.

Prominent local chief executives and officials, national government agency heads, academic institution management staff, non-government organization members, investors, stakeholders, and media partners personally witnessed the SOPA at Plaza del Norte Hotel and Convention Center.

Meanwhile, local government units held their own viewing party for their employees and constituents.

Netizens also tuned in at the official Facebook page of the governor to watch real-time the happenings during his SOPA. The livestream generated more than a thousand viewers.

Manotoc’s SOPA began with the Ilokano resilience when faced by disasters, especially during the onslaught of Super Typhoon Egay this year.

“Every disaster reminds us of our people’s resilience- a trademark Ilokano trait defined not only by our ability to withstand adversity but, more importantly, our determination to build back better. Naandur tayo,” said Manotoc.

He later discussed and highlighted his significant accomplishments in the province’s economic growth, infrastructure projects, improved healthcare facilities, advancements in agriculture, environmental stability, expanded social services, and a thriving tourism industry.

For lawyer Charito Malicad, Laoag City Information Officer, the governor’s SOPA encompassed all his notable achievements, especially in the agriculture sector.

“Well-encompassing ang kanyang SOPA. Lahat ng aspeto at programa  ng provincial government ay nakikita. Lalong-lalo na sa atin na isang agriculture province. Mahalaga talaga yung mga programa para sa agrikultura,” said Malicad.

In his SOPA, Manotoc underscored that Ilocos Norte continues to be a top producer of high-value crops, a prominent tourism destination, and a leading renewable energy capital.

To this day, the province remains to reach its goal as the commercial hub of Northern Luzon.

The SOPA started at 3:30 p.m. and ended by 4:02 p.m., with a running time of 32 minutes. (JCR/MJTAB PIA Ilocos Norte)