'Education is the key to a better life' -- PGMA

MANILA, March 13 (PNA) - President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo is urging the country's young people to value and avail themselves of education so they can better access more of life's opportunities later on.

"Education is the key to a better life," she said during a visit to Masbate province Friday.

She also said that education will enable young people to help in nation-building.

President Arroyo particularly encouraged Masbate's youngsters to avail of education so they can contribute to improving socio-economic conditions in the province, which is among the country's poorest areas.

Among such possible contributions is enhancing Masbate's bid to be a major eco-tourism destination.

The President believes biodiversity in the dive site off Masbate's Ticao Island augurs well for making the province a tourist attraction.

Authorities have reported manta rays abound in waters off that island.

The Chief Executive is optimistic these manta rays can help put Masbate on the tourism map in the same way that whale sharks have transformed Sorsogon province into a must-see destination for local and foreign visitors.

President Arroyo urged the authorities concerned to lay out a sustainable development plan showing how Masbate residents can benefit from their province's resources without sacrificing the environment. (PNA)
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