LAOAG CITY: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday returned to his family's bailiwick to join his fellow Ilocanos in this year's grandest celebration of festivals in Ilocos Norte.In a Twitter post, the President sent his warmest greetings to his fellow Ilocanos as the province celebrates the Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival, which is Ilocos Norte's cultural festival.The festival, which means the 'Greatness of the Ilocano,' will be held at the newly refurbished Ferdinand E. Marcos Memorial Stadium here in Laoag City.'My family and I send our warmest greetings to our fellow Ilocanos as we celebrate the Tan-ok ni Ilokano!' the President said.'We look forward to witnessing the unique history, heritage, and culture of Ilocos Norte being celebrated and displayed for the world to see. Agbiag ti Ilocano!' he added.The Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival of Festivals resumed on Friday after a three-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.The festival was launched in 2011 during the administration of then-governor and now Sen. Maria Imelda Josefa 'Imee' Marcos with the aim of reviving 'cultural pride and Ilokano identity by focusing on narrative-driven presentations produced by local creatives.'Meanwhile, the President stopped by an eatery in Laoag City on Friday for lunch. He was joined by his son, Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand Alexander 'Sandro' Marcos, and Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. Ilocos Norte is the hometown of the Marcos family. The President previously served as vice governor and governor of the province.
