4th Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival hailed a success, benefits SMEs

By Jennifer T. Pambid

PGIN-CMO

Drawing more than 50,000 local and balikbayan spectators, the biggest gathering in the north dubbed “Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals” has successfully raised almost half million pesos for the small and medium enterprises (SME’s) in the province.

Held on November 29, 2014 at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Stadium, this grand celebration of Ilocano greatness (“Tan-ok” in Iluko) is now on its fourth annual installment.

Provincial tourism officer Ianree Raquel said Ilocos Norte Governor Ma. Imelda “Imee” R. Marcos want to support SMEs by giving them financial assistance in order to better promote local products which have been the source of great pride to Ilocanos.

“The SMEs of the province are chosen as the beneficiaries for the event because after our appearance in Manila FAME [Furnishings and Apparel Manufacturers' Exchange] International where Ilocos Norte was recognized due to their works being displayed in our booth, we realized they need more assistance to develop and promote their products,” Mr. Raquel said.

Manila FAME was held on October 16-19, 2014 at the SMX Convention Center wherein Ilocos Norte’s rich cultural narrative and its people’s ingenuity were featured through a variety of handloom-woven clothes, ceramics and wood furniture.

In her speech during the event, Ms. Marcos cited the importance of upholding and safeguarding Ilocano culture and heritage.

“Ang kultura at sining ay hindi hilig o luho lamang ng mayayaman at matataas kundi hanapbuhay at propesyon ng napakarami sa atin,” she said.

By providing assistance to the SMEs through Tan-ok, Ms. Marcos believes that they will be able to grow their respective businesses which can generate more job opportunities for Ilocanos in the province.

The governor also expressed that this festival of masses is not just about the Ilocano “sense of pride, unity and greatness” but an investment for the province’s bounty and potential tourism.

Last year, Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival was organized to raise funds for the construction of the new building of Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) Ilocos Norte Chapter in Laoag City.

Ms. Marcos recognized and thanked PNRC Ilocos Norte Chapter for “their extraordinary efforts not only in times of calamity but for the health and safety of our families.” She also emphasized their contributions to the relief efforts to Typhoon Yolanda affected areas, particularly in Tacloban City.

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