Kannawidan Festival

 Kannawidan ...

Whenever I hear this word, there's only one word I could describe it. Happiness ...  T hat's one word but it can open a beautiful time capsule. This festival reminds me of my choirmates. Who sings with me in front of a huge audience. A team that is always ready to hit the highest note with me. A family that sings with so much passion and spirit. 

The loud cheer and screams of people, the music sheet I used to hold, the sound of a piano that always echoes. The loud beating of my heart when we perform and waiting for the announcement of winners. I can only remember it vaguely, but the tears and laughter left me with a scar. But the notes of the song will always echo on my mind, and the joys of my choir, my family will always be in my heart. 

Photos by: Jade Cesar Fernandez

Viva Vigan!

     Vigan is a popular tourist destination because of its architecture which was erected during the Spanish era. It is also famous for its delectable meat products. It is a stand still in the early 16th century. 

      Vigan celebrates its Fiesta from January 22, its cityhood to January 25, the feast of its Patron Saint, Conversion of St. Paul. In the previous years, foreign and local tourists flock in this vibrant city to witness its rich culture. During the festival, everyone has the chance to try authentic products like longanisa, bagnet, kakanin, okoy, sinanglao and empanada. 

     This year, because of the pandemic, the city fiesta was celebrated simply with the Holy Mass. Grandeous parades have been cancelled to avoid or prevent contamination from the unseen virus which has become world's number one enemy. It is used to gather a lot of tourists who come to see the presentations that Bigueños do for the show. 

     All over the world, many vivacious activities have been cancelled due to the pandemic and Vigan is not spared with it. All meriments have been prohibited or cancelled. I hope and pray that someday, somehow, everything will be back to normal and the city's meriment during the city fiesta will once again be merrily celebrated.

Photo credentials: Google