Treasure of the Past, Ethereal beauty of Present

Scenario of satisfying colors of heavenly culture, delightful and unique aesthetic feast, wonders and fun of past glimpse and a background of wealth, sign of connection and affection, nourishing knowledge, benediction,  and one of a kind experiences.   Always part of life that has been a incredible and valuable golden treasure from the past. Step to the journey of remarkable land or should say a paradise of Ilocos Sur where magical culture, fascinating traditions and phenomenal native industrial and cultural products. Brace selves as the amazing experience, thrilling emotions, honor and great cultivation of one in a year feast in the City of Vigan holds a blockbuster, exuberant, values and vibrant atmosphere.

Pride preserved charm of Ilocos Sur showcasing the beauty and talents which establish an awareness and openness about the preservation of sumptuous culture practices. Locos Sur especially Vigan is branded as the Heart of Ilocandia by the Philippine Historical Committee. It’s a province very rich in culture and heritage.

Kannawidan Festival, an annual celebration that lasts from last week of January until first week of February.  It is also a commemoration of the anniversary of Ilocos Sur as a province. This festival is very significant to every resident in the province as they are celebrating the foundation of Ilocos Sur as a province by virtue of the Royal Decree signed on February 2, 1818.

The grand feast includes overflowing fun highlights/features and activities that definitely will paint an unforgettable viewpoints. Kicking in the list is the mass held at the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral. It is followed by a procession of the Patron Saints of the 40 parishes and images of Jesus Christ and Virgin Mary around the city. It is the Ilocanos’ way of giving thanks to the Almighty not only for the bountiful blessings but also for the rich heritage of the city, including the close family ties among the Ilocanos. This event showcases the deep-rooted religiosity of the townsfolk.

Exciting activities like games and enjoying the products each municipalities, spectacular traid and fair, delish foods and delicacies, sights of astounding traditional literary frameworks/exhibitions, mind blowing competitions/showdowns, battle of beauty and brains and  marvelous performances including sarzuela, komedya, bands, artists, choir and etc that reflects the unity, significant treasures, aptitude and uplift. Kannawidan Festival is one of the most awated feast where sound of anticipation all over the city, it was definitely glorious and full of surprises, a gifted land indeed.

Unexpectedly (nostalgic), Kannawidan Festival was celebrated simpler with safety protocols, mindful precautions and must measures. Implemented to be accurately followed. Strict rules and guidelines are announced by the provincial government to observe the security and protection of wellness. As the ribbon cutting opened the celebration and followed by the mass with rules and regulations. In the are of traid fair, a one-town-one-product was done as usual but according to DTI-Ilocos Sur Provincial Director Grace Lapastora, a total of 110 local exhibitors have joined this year’s Trade and Food Fair. Of this number, 40 exhibitors are in the food fair, 15 are from various local government units in the OTOP section, 38 from the gifts, decors, housewares, furnitures and plants section, and 17 are in the local processed foods section. The provincial government strictly mandates usage of face mask and SafePass to enter the Trade and Food Fair in Kannawidan grounds, barangay Tamag. Governor Ryan Luis V. Singson also announced Thursday that children under 15 years and senior citizens are not permitted to enter the Fair. Also, the competition for exceptional beauty, brains and talents, Saniata ti Ylocos Sur was held with limitations of social interactions and watched virtually to deliver the support for each candidates. Moreover, a showcase of competitiveness, strategies and strength as Kannawidan Summer Sports fest 2021 shall also be held for the whole month of March with sports activities such as Badminton, Table Tennis, and Boxing, however, dates are not yet final, according to Governor Singson.

The scouring pandemic truly altered the fun and celebration. A part of life was bit dimmed, almost unbeatable challenges and difficulties. But those barriers can’t stop a paradise to bloom, have positivity and have determination.  Hidden smile under masks, distance and struggles can’t hold us back to celebrate the unique feast. Even if it was far different than before, kept in mind that cherishing, living and embracing culture are one of the most significant contributions in life.

References Retrived From:

Philippine Information Agency, Articles under “Kannawidan Ylocos Festival 2021” Tag, Joyah Mae Quimoyog, January 30, 2021,

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1065420

Images Retrieved From:

https://images.app.goo.gl/TcgPduDtzXgCZeWF9

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