Ilocos provinces mark 207th anniversaries

MANILA, Philippines — The provinces of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur marked their 207th founding anniversary on Sunday, celebrating over two centuries since their separation in 1818.

In Ilocos Norte, Vice Gov. Cecilia Araneta-Marcos led a cleanup drive and tree-planting activities, following a thanksgiving concert.

In Ilocos Sur, the province celebrated with a grand parade attended by guest celebrities, local governments, schools, and socio-civic organizations, showcasing its rich traditions, culture, and heritage. Gov. Jeremias Singson issued Executive Order No. 07 suspending classes and work in public offices on Monday to allow residents to fully participate in the weekend festivities.

READ: BBM attends Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival; urges Ilocanos to be proud of identity, culture

Though commemorated separately, both provinces share a united vision of cultural pride and environmental preservation.

The 1818 Spanish decree not only split Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur but included northern La Union and present-day Abra under Ilocos Sur, while Lepanto and Amburayan in Mt. Province were later annexed. —PNA