I am Very Sure! Ilocos Sur!

One of the most beautiful provinces located in Northern Luzon and through which tourists really love to visit is the province of Ilocos Sur . It is a wonderful province rich in culture that represents the ancient Spanish and Filipino heritage. To show and share their treasures to the whole world, the locals conceived a festival that highlights these cultural traditions and they called it the “Kannadiwan Festival”.  They call it as the Kannawidan Ylocos Festival as it is also the time to commemorate the anniversary of Ilocos Sur as a province since it was separated on February 3, 1818. Kannawidan is a variant of the Ilocano word "tawid" meaning heritage or inheritance. Kannawidan has really lived up to its mission and vision which is preserving  the rich Iloco cultural, artistic, and historical heritage.

It is very sad when we think the fact that a lot of activities are missing this year because we need to follow safety health protocols. We were unable to witness different activities such as the street dancing and showdown, trade fairs where every municipality or city have to showcase their own products, we were unable to see different unique or "kakaibas" raised by Ilocanos and many activities through which we are looking forward to each year. But last January 29, 2021, my cousin got the chance to be here in Vigan City again. Coincidentally, it was the opening day of  Kannawidan Ylocos Festival 2021 so we decided to visit the Kannawidan Grounds located in Tamag, Vigan City and spent quality time with her. The line was very long so we've waited for half an hour just to be inside. All I can say is that, even though the pandemic is really hampering us all, spreading threats and even bad times to each and every one of us, the Government of Ilocos Sur is still doing its very best just for us, Ilocos Sur'ians to grow and have some smile within our faces. Officials and different personnels really performed well just to ensure the safety of all the Ilocanos joining the celebration. They always make sure that people are following the health protocols while having a great time. So it is no longer surprising why there are so many brilliant feebdbacks about Ilocos Sur.

It is true that this health crisis changed a lot of things, especially festivals and celebrations. But this pandemic will never change us from being happy and being festive. And we will not let anyone or anything stop us celebrate good times. Kannawidan Festival have always been a part of every Ilocano's lives.  So may this continue as we, Ilocanos work as one in loving and preserving our own culture and arts and continue sharing it to the whole world. llocos Sur is surely a magnificent place and I am proud that I am an Ilocano! Here, I am very sure that it is true, that it is  Sure, Ilocos Sur!

References:

https://www.ijser.org/researchpaper/KANNAWIDAN-FESTIVAL-ITS-EFFECT-TO-MERCHANTS.pdf

https://www.vigattintourism.com/tourism/articles/Kannawidan-Ylocos-Festival-Pride-of-the-Ilocano-Culture

https://www.suyoilocossur.gov.ph/kannawidan-festival-opening-ritual-by-the-suyo-district-teachers-and-students/

https://www.edmaration.com/2016/03/kannawidan-festival-vigan-ilocos-sur.html?m=1