Kannawidan Fest

 Residents of the province of Ilocos Sur have a simpler celebration of the annual Kannawidan Ylocos Festival this year. The provincial government, through its provincial tourism office, has announced strict guidelines to be observed during the festival to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Unlike previous years when the Kannawidan Festival is being celebrated for at least a month, this year, it will only run for a week starting Friday, January 29 until February 5.

It has various events and competitions throughout the period, these include traditional tribal rituals, choir, and glee club competition, marching band contest, traditional music ensemble, dance drama, traditional and folk dances, contemporary dance competition, and street dancing showdown. The festival is a creative way for Ilocos Sur to introduce non-locals the beauty and creativity of each city comprising the province. Due to COVID-19, The festival limited the contests that will be held in order to follow health protocols and still enjoy the vibe of the festival. Vigan’s response to COVID-19 is the reason why there are only low cases in the city thus making the festival still possible. 

Knowing that Vigan can handle the pandemic well, I think that there will be no problem in upholding this festival but my main concern is that, if we are going to still continue the festival- it attracts people outside of Ilocos Sur which makes the spread of the virus faster. For me, following cultures and traditions are completely fine since it is a part of who we are but it is important to keep in mind that we should adjust to our current environment since this festival can be a cause for more cases in Vigan City. The festival has already begun, and it is now open to the public and from the report of our local news, the events include only the trade fair, which is only exclusive to locals, and the pageant.

https://www.makeheritagefun.com/kannawidan-ylocos-festival-will-commence-unesco-whs-vigan-city/amp/