Kannawidan, Festival of Ylocos

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 Fifteen years ago, a noble idea developed in the minds of a group of civic spirited Ilocanos who wanted to promote cultural awareness and preserve the rich historical and cultural heritage of Ilocos Norte wanted to rekindle in the youth and future generations the pride of their heritage. The magnificent idea developed and is now a living reality, KANNAWIDAN, the Iloko Foundation of Arts and Culture. 

     Kannawidan is a variant of the Ilocano word "tawid" meaning heritage or inheritance. It became one of the most awaited annual celebrations in the province and consequently improves Ilocano culture. Kannawidan has its beginnings in 1992 when Guia Monroy Valenciano, then vice-president of PCI Bank, began sounding out to friends about establishing a museum. It is a celebration that lasts from the last week of January and ends on the first week of February.

     Kannawidan Ylocos festival is the commemoration of the foundation of the province of Ilocos Sur. It celebrates Ilocos Sur's abundant culture and traditions, and the separation of the two Ilocos provinces in 1818. Traditionally, the feast opens with a mass held in the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, followed by a procession of the Patron Saints of the 40 parishes and images of Jesus Christ and Virgin Mary around Vigan City which showcases the deep-rooted religiosity of the Ilocanos. This festival is a showcase of indigenous performances, religious rituals, as well cooking demos featuring the best of Ilocano dishes.

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     Last Feb. 01, the provincial government of Ilocos officially launched Kannawidan with a series of activities aimed at celebrating life and spreading joy while following minimum public health and safety protocols. It was opened by the provincial government of Ilocos Sur, headed by Governor Ryan Luis V. Singson along with Vice Governor Jeremias C. Singson, Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members, and officials and employees of Local Government Units and National Government Agencies joined the Opening Ceremony. LGBTQ night, Chef Wars Cooking Competition, and Coronation of the Saniata Ti Ylocos beauty pageant was some of the events held. 

     Kannawidan Festival is rich in culture and has a sense of identity among all Ilocanos committed to ensure the conversion, preservation, and promotion of the Iloco cultural, artistic, historical and intellectual heritage. It encourages young generations to learn and preserve the indigenous songs and dances treasured here at our Province. Things from our past made and built our Province. Cherishing, preserving and taking a good care of the things that reminds us of the past also helps keep our Province intact. Trying something new might be better but trying something while keeping and/blending it with the old ones is the best. 

REFERENCES:

https://philippines.travel/events/kannawidan-ylocos-festival#:~:text=A%20festival%20in%20the%20Province,the%20best%20of%20Ilocano%20dishes.

https://depedilocossur.info/?p=2011

https://manilastandard.net/lifestyle/destinations/314206439/celebrating-life-spreading-joy-in-ilocos-surs-kannawidan-fest.html