Kristina Cassandra

 Kannawidan is an Ilocano word that means "festivity of rich heritage and culture." It commemorates the 198th anniversary of the formation of Ilocos Sur, which was separated from Ilocos Norte by a Royal Decree on February 2, 1818. The 2016 Kannawidan Ylocos festival in Ilocos Sur officially began. The festival celebrates the province's heritage culture, which dates back two centuries. The Bicentennial Ylocos Festival begins with the traditional opening ritual led by Governor Ryan Singson and Ilocos Sur's indigenous people. The festival honors the rich heritage, tradition, culture, arts, crafts, and delicacies of Ilocos Sur. In the annual Kannawidan Festival, locals revived traditional practices passed down by Ilocano elders, but made it more meaningful this 2022 due to the province's Bicentennial Kannawidan Ylocos festival. The traditional opening displays the identity, demonstrating that there is a culture that has developed over time and that we will continue ou...

 This is most likely one of the few times in modern history when we are encouraged to celebrate the Christmas season in its essence, in its simplicity. With a focus on the Covid virus, we are preoccupied with guidelines for how to celebrate Christmas this year– with only members of the family living in the same household, to continue wearing masks, to practice social distancing, or to wash hands frequently. For our mutual protection and safety, we are discouraged from visiting one another. The usual Christmas joy and merriment that we have come to expect is not possible this year But Covid should not dampen our Christmas celebrations! This Season, let us spread more hope, peace, joy, and love! And it is at this point that I am reminded of the birth of our Savior. The Christmas story is straightforward. Our Lord and Savior was born in a manger to a mother and a father. His visitors included a shepherd, a few animals, and the three magi. It's a heartfelt reminder of the true meaning ...