Arts events mark Ilocos Norte 203rd founding day

By Blessing Angel V. Agliam

LAOAG CITY -- Gov. Matthew Marcos Manotoc urged the Ilokano community to "rebuild and revitalize" the province amidst difficulties brought by the Covid-19 pandemic to commemorate Ilocos Norte's 203rd founding anniversary,
    Usually celebrated in grandeur, the provincial government for this year held flag-raising ceremony and a short program in front of the provincial capitol to commemorate the event.
    In his speech, Gov. Manotoc said, "I would like to challenge everyone to try and make this year not be defined by Covid-19. Let us try to take ownership of this year and leave Covid-19 in the past, in 2020. Let us make our own mark this year, one that is not defined by Covid-19 but one that is defined by our efforts to rebuild and revitalize our province."
    He described this year's founding anniversary as "a celebration of arts," referring to activities that showcase local artistry and creativity.
    The highlight of the celebration is the first Tan-ok ni Ilokano Film Festival, which features the fabled strength and pride of the people of Ilocos Norte through 15-minute documentaries.
    Others include inauguration of La Tabacalera Ilocano Lifestyle Center and Food Park in Laoag City and opening of Filipino-Chinese Friendship Park in Paoay.
    Other activities Feb. 2 were Ilocano creative fest and Ilocano culinary heritage competition and exhibit.
    A thanksgiving mass, fluvial parade and  Tan-ok Film Festival Awarding were held Feb. 3 at  La Virgen Milagrosa Chapel in Badoc and Provincial Capitol, respectively.
    “We are 203 years old as a province, and to me, this is just a reminder that we are temporary, but our province will go on for many years,” Manotoc said.