"Kannawidan" no more?
Derived from its name,
"Kannawidan," this festival has long been entrenched in our cultural
heritage, embodying the essence of tradition. "Kannawidan" itself,
denoting tradition in Tagalog, has served as a symbol of our cultural identity
for generations. What caught my attention recently is the rebranding of the
festival as the "Ilocos Sur Festival," with "Kannawidan"
now relegated to the name of Ilocos Sur's festival for the past 16 years.
Personally, I find this renaming somewhat diminishes the rich historical and
cultural significance that "Kannawidan" embodies. After all, it has
been ingrained in our heritage for so long, so why the sudden change? However,
realizing that I lack the authority to dictate such decisions, I can only
express my preference for preserving what is deeply ingrained in our
traditions. Moving forward, let's talk about the events lined up for the Ilocos
Sur Festival 2024.
No Ilocos Sur Festival is truly
complete without the lively "One Town, One Product" (OTOP) showcase.
It's an opportunity for small-scale entrepreneurs to shine by displaying their
unique creations. Now, there's something new on the scene: the One Ilocos Sur
OTOP Trade Fair. It's a fresh marketplace designed specifically for Ilocano
OTOPreneurs. With products hailing from two cities and 32 municipalities, this
hub isn't just about commerce but a celebration of Ilocano innovation and
resilience. What's especially noteworthy is how traditional pasalubong centers
have been transformed into vibrant spaces that reflect the rich culture and
heritage of each locality. Wander through the Ilocos Sur Trade Fair, and you'll
find yourself surrounded by a colorful array of booths, each one proudly
showcasing the distinct flavors and crafts of its hometown. It's an invitation
to explore, taste, and experience the best of what Ilocos Sur has to offer.
As I wandered through the Trade Fair,
I couldn't resist the temptation to try out the delicacies from my hometown.
Among them was a unique treat: squash ice cream. Intrigued by its
unconventional flavor, I persuaded my best friend to give it a try with me. To
our pleasant surprise, the ice cream wasn't anything like we expected. Instead
of the usual taste of squash, it offered a creamy, sweet sensation that left us
craving more. It was a delightful experience from the ordinary, proving that
sometimes the most unexpected flavors can be the most enjoyable.
During the festivities, a highlight
was the colorful float parade, which showcased the creativity and spirit of 2
cities and numerous municipalities. This competition served as a canvas for
imaginative expression, with each Local Government Unit (LGU) pulling out all
the stops to create the most impressive floats. Decorated with a myriad of
materials including bamboo, plywood, leaves, and more, these floats were a
testament to the spirit of bayanihan, where collective effort leads to success.
The intricate designs and vibrant displays not only captivated the audience but
also served as a proud representation of each locality's culture and tradition.
It was a moment for residents of Ilocos Sur to stand tall and celebrate their
heritage. Alongside the floats, the parade also featured the participation of
officials and marching bands, adding to the festive atmosphere and
demonstrating the community's solidarity and support.
The Ilocos Sur Festival, formerly
known as Kannawidan, holds a special place in the hearts of locals, serving as
a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition, and innovation. While the
rebranding of the festival may have sparked some debate, it remains a testament
to the resilience and adaptability of the Ilocano people. As we move forward,
it's essential to honor our heritage while embracing new opportunities for
growth and exploration. The One Town, One Product (OTOP) showcase and the
colorful float parade are just a few examples of how the festival continues to
evolve, reflecting the dynamic spirit of the community. Ultimately, whether
we're savoring unique flavors or admiring intricate floats, the Ilocos Sur
Festival reminds us of the rich tapestry of experiences that define our
cultural identity. It's a celebration of who we are and where we come from,
uniting us in pride and solidarity as we look towards the future.
https://blogger.com
(n.d). Accounts.google.com, Retrieved February 8, 2024, from
https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/7829691999886487738/5684839276809597630
The Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur (2024). [Photograph 1 and 4]. ILOCOS SUR FESTIVAL 2024. Retrieved February 8, 2024, from
Lightstream Photography (2024). [Photograph].6TH SET OF PHOTOS/KANNAWIDAN FESTIVAL 2024. Retrieved February 8, 2024, from
https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=773236784838687&id=100064571181444&mibextid=WC7FNe
DTI (2023). DTI launches One Ilocos Sur OTOP Hub; provides market platform for Ilocano MSMEs. Retrieved February 8, 2023, from
https://www.dti.gov.ph/archives/news-archives/one-ilocos-sur-otop-hub/
Comments
Post a Comment