Senator Imee Marcos returns to “Tan-ok”

Senator Imee R. Marcos returned to Ilocos Norte, on February 16, as the guest of honor and speaker in the 11th edition of the "Tan-ok ni Ilokano: Festivals of Festivals" at the Ferdinand Endralin Marcos Stadium, Laoag City.

"Tan-ok" is an annual gathering of town festivals in Ilocos Norte, featuring diverse stories, rich history, and distinct culture of Ilokanos through dance, music, vibrant props, and theatrics performed on stage.

Senator Marcos organized the festival in 2011 during her term as Ilocos Norte governor as part of her campaign to revive cultural pride and Ilokano identity through narrative-driven presentations.

As a highlight of Ilocos Norte’s 206th foundation anniversary, this edition focuses on Ilokano oral traditions, particularly the stories of love, belief, and harmony, that uphold the culture that binds the Ilokano community. 

She was introduced by Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, saying:

"Tonight, we are also grateful to welcome back a true champion of Ilokano culture, heritage, and values whose commitment to our traditions has paved the way for this celebration."

Senator Marcos started her speech by expressing her happiness on her homecoming to Ilocos Norte.

She also assured that she will continue to fight for, support, and protect the Ilokano people and the province, saying:

"Kilala ninyo ako, hindi ko ugali ang sumuko sa probinsya, sumuko sa pamilya, hangga’t kaya pa natin – kakayanin natin; kahit mag-isa, kahit ginigipit, kahit pinipigilan, kailangan kong lumaban para sa inyo, para sa atin, kahit ako ang pinaka-nasasaktan."

She also reminded the crowd of thousands to always uphold the Ilokano greatness, saying:

"Nangnangruna tattan, saan koma a kinapangas, kwarta ken sangkabassit a turay dagiti dadduma dita ti agari nu di ket di - intay pasingkedan ti kinatan-ok ni Ilokano!"

The active participation of the 22 municipalities and two (2) cities signifies the commitment of every Ilokano to preserving Ilocos Norte's cultures. In 2020, the "Tan-ok ni Ilokano Film Festival" was created to continue the celebration amid the restrictions of the pandemic.

Aside from cultural preservation and promoting identity, the festivals have also boosted livelihood opportunities for many Ilokano, particularly local creatives, artisans, and small-scale laborers.

The yearly celebration of the "Tan-ok ni Ilocano: Festival of Festivals" serves as a testament to the resilience, strength, and greatness of the Ilokano people.