By Mizpah Grace G. Castro
PGIN-CMO
In line with Ilocos Norte Governor Maria Imelda “Imee” R. Marcos' vision to showcase the diverse roots of Ilocano culture, the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) held a Chinese New Year bazaar dubbed the "Barrio Tsicano," from February 5-8 at the Ilocos Norte Dap-ayan.
A Chinese New Year celebration alongside the provincial foundation anniversary celebration is fitting, as in addition to a history of early Ilocanos trading with Chinese merchants, Ilocos Norte had also long fostered a strong relationship with China since the administration of former President Ferdinand E. Marcos.
Former Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Ma Keqing once stated during a visit to the province, "I think Ilocos Norte is a sister province with Shangdong province in China... The provincial government is very keen to have more cooperation."
The bazaar featured authentic Chinese cuisine, plants and artifacts for the coming "Year of the Monkey," and a special selection of products "made in China."
Ilocos Norte's 200th anniversary being only two years away, PGIN has strengthened the bicentennial movement towards becoming "The Best Little Province in the Country IN2020" through programs involving the preservation and uplifting of cultural heritage, support to small and medium entrepreneurs, tourism, and youth empowerment.
The Chinese New Year celebration concluded with a cultural show featuring the Chinese festival trademark "dragon dance" put on by students from the St. Santiago School Foundation, commonly known as the "Chinese School," on February 8 at the Provincial Capitol Grounds.