The Breeze of February to Ilocanos
During the month of February, we usually feel the gust of love. But among Ilocanos, the anticipated Kannawidan Ylocos Festival is very much awaited. It is a province-wide celebration depicting on the cultures and in the promotion of tourism in the province.
Kannawidan is an Iloco term which means "a feast of heritages, practices and products" in Ilocos Sur. The feast is in commemoration of the separation of the province of Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte by the virtue of royal decree on February 2, 1818. The celebration concocts various activities for tourism promotion through the display of talents, indigenous costumes, traditions, cultures and products that is distinctly Ilocos Sur.
As a part of the feast's celebration, the provincial capitol is conducting a trade fair along the Plaza Encarnacion wherein all towns and other neighboring provinces of Ilocos Sur showcases their OTOP (One Town, One Product) for the consumers to buy. A display of native traditions and various talents of Ilocanos are also conducted to promote the Ilocanos pride such as the Sarzuela Ilocana and others. A prestigious night to showcase the true beauty of an Ilocana through the Saniata ti Ilocos Sur. It's been a tradition that the crowned Saniata ti Ilocos Sur will represent the province in the Bb. Pilipinas.
This fourth Kannawidan Festival really carved a memoir in my life. I had a good experience and it is the most fabulous so far. One part of the festival is the Sirib ken Saririt- Quiz Bee regarding on the history, arts and cultures, and events of Ilocos Sur which I participated in. My groupmates and I together with Ma'am Paje, our coachreally proud of ourselves for bagging as champion with a perfect score.
Despite of our hectic schedule, my friends and I went to the Kannawidan Trade Fair to have some fun. That was the first time I stepped on its grounds this year. I really can't explain the happiness I felt that time. I had a wonderful Kannawidan with my colleagues. Though it was my last Kannawidan as a high school student, the memories I gained which we have shared with my friends didn't end there and it wouldn't last.
On behalf of the whole province of Ilocos Sur, I want to thank the person behind this Kannawidan Festival, Vice Gov. DV Savellano for implementing such great festival. For without you, there would be no avenue for us Ilocanos to showcase our hidden talents as one. Likewise, I wouldn't also have as good experience as I had during the conduct of the festival. My salutations!
The breeze of February to Ilocanos not only revolves on the celebration of the Valentines Day, but also in presenting what Ilocanos have got through this festival- Kannawidan!
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