By Leilanie Adriano/PNA
LAOAG CITY — President Rodrigo R. Duterte has declared February 2 as a special non-working day in Ilocos Norte in light of the closing of its bicentennial year.
The President issued the declaration through Proclamation No. 657 signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea on January 21 to give Ilokanos “full opportunity to celebrate and participate in the occasion with appropriate ceremonies.”
In an interview on Thursday, Provincial Tourism Officer Ianree Raquel said preparations are underway for the grand event with more thanr 100,000 yearly spectators online and on the ground.
“All sectors are in full swing preparation for the Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals. February 2 is a special non-working holiday and this will allow us to celebrate as a province,” Raquel said, noting that the Ilocos Norte Tourism Office is organizing a series of activities next month.
On February 5, officials and residents will make way for the solemn declaration of the minor basilica of St. John the Baptist Parish Church where the La Virgen Milagrosa de Badoc is enshrined.
The “I love Ilocos Norte” concert will be held at the Capitol grounds on February 9; the Tan-ok Ni Ilocano Mobile Legends Bang Bang Tournament Finals on February 10; and the Tan-ok Ni Ilocano Motorshow to culminate the month-long festival at the Sirib Mile this city on February 22.
