Kannawidan: The Ylocos Festival

            Ylocos Sur has a rich heritage and unique culture. However,  it is observed that many of these traditions, songs, dances and other Ilocano culture are no longer familiar with the younger generations. Children of today prefer the modern and novelty dances they see on television shows than the traditional ones.

There is a need to preserve our rich heritage and unique culture. With this in mind, the provincial government of Ilocos Sur has conceived a festival that highlights these culture and traditions and attract local and foreign tourists as well. Dubbed the Kannawidan Ylocos Festival, it is also a commemoration of the anniversary of Ilocos Sur as a province.

          A royal decree dated February 2, 1818 separated   Ylocos. The northern part became Ilocos Norte while the southern part became Ilocos Sur which then included the northern part of La Union and all of what is now the province of Abra. In 1854, the province of La Union was created out of the towns that had heretofore belonged to Ilocos Sur and Pangasinan. Soon thereafter, Abra likewise became independent.

On January 29, Kannawidan Ylocos opened with a celebrated mass held at the St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral followed by a procession of the patron saints of the 40 parishes as well as images of Jesus Christ and Virgin Mary around the province’s capital city, a testament to the deep rooted religiosity of the Ilocanos.

In his homily, Rev. Fr. Roque Reyes, parish priest of Vigan City, said that this festivity is the time to thank the Almighty not only for the abundance He has showered for the province but also for the rich heritage of the province including the strong ties among the Ilocano families.

Residents and even the local and foreign tourists partook of a delicious dinner held at the Plaza Salcedo after the procession. The big crowd enjoyed the fireworks display after the meal.

The Bayanihan Dance Company regaled the Ilocanos with their world class performance showcasing the beauty of the Philippines through dances, music and sounds. The audience lapped up their graceful movements and excellent rendition of songs and dexterity in playing indigenous musical instruments.