“Let this be your platform to innovate, inspire”–Matthew Marcos Manotoc at “Tan-ok” Festival

“Let this be your experimental sandbox. Let this be your platform to truly innovate and inspire,” Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc urged local leaders and performers at the “Tan-ok ni Ilocano: Festival of Festivals” on February 15 at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr. Memorial Stadium.

As the highlight of Ilocos Norte’s 207th founding anniversary, “Tan-ok” embraced this year’s theme, “Gameng ni Ilokano (Ilocano Treasures),” which celebrated everyday objects that shape Ilokano life. Tools, implements, and household crafts were recognized as symbols of resilience, industry, and heritage among the province’s farming, fishing, and cultural communities.

“We once again celebrate our culture, our art, our dance, and our music, the very things that make Ilocos Norte special,” Marcos Manotoc said. 

“On nights like these, we are reminded that our true treasures are not material possessions in themselves but the stories, traditions, and hard work they represent.”

Now in its 12th year, the festival expanded its creative scope by allowing greater artistic freedom beyond the traditional dance-drama format. For the first time, an “Innovation Prize” was introduced to recognize outstanding artistic execution, technical creativity, cultural significance, and future potential.

The Municipality of Piddig’s “Basi Festival” claimed its first-ever championship with a stirring portrayal of the 1807 Basi Revolt. Vintar’s “Siwawer Festival” secured second place, while the City of Batac’s “Fiesta Empanada” finished third. 

Other top performances included Currimao’s “Dinaklisan Festival,” Dumalneg’s “Panagwawagi Festival,” Banna’s “Abuos Festival,” Adams’ “Ginginubat Festival,” and Nueva Era’s “Tadek Festival.” Currimao also earned the inaugural “Innovation Prize” for its creative storytelling and technical mastery.

Marcos Manotoc paid tribute to Senator Imee Marcos, the festival’s founder, for her enduring support of Ilokano culture and the arts.

“We once again honor our former governor and now senator, Imee Marcos, a true champion not only of our culture and the arts but also of our youth,” he said. 

“She ensured that Tan-ok is not just a showcase of talent but a source of livelihood for our artisans, weavers, creatives, dancers, and performers.”

Closing the festival night, Marcos Manotoc reaffirmed his commitment to nurturing Ilocos Norte’s creative industries.

“Tonight is a celebration of our identity, our arts, and our youth,” he said.

“Thanks to all of you, ‘Tan-ok’ continues to reach greater heights. Rest assured, we will always stand by the people behind these industries and celebrate many more ‘Tan-oks’ to come.”