VIGAN CITY, Philippines - The week-long Kannawidan Ylocos Festival which celebrates the 193rd anniversary of the founding of Ilocos Sur kicks off today with a string of activities expected to draw thousands of domestic and foreign tourists. Ilocos Sur Vice Governor Deogracias Victor Savellano said the festival, which is now on its fourth year, will run until February 6 and succeeds the overwhelming success of this city's Longganisa Festival from January 16 to 31.
'This Kannawidan Ylocos Festival became an annual festival that aims to create awareness on the preservation of the province' rich cultural heritage, practices and traditions, and a showcase of the different agriculture and industry products,'' Savellano said. Provincial officials headed by Governor Luis ''Chavit'' Singson will lead the different significant highlights of this year's Kannawidan. ''This festival is very significant to every resident in the province as we are celebrating the foundation of Ilocos Sur as a province by virtue of the Royal Decree signed on February 2, 1818,'' Savellano said.
