The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) held “Tiendani Gob” to exhibit local products and livelihood of the province as part of the 199th year foundation anniversary celebration yesterday, February 6.
Provincial officials, led by Governor Imee R. Marcos, together with “junior officials” initiated the event’s ribbon cutting ceremony located at the Laoag City “dap-ayan,” a food court area. After which, the “junior mayors” from the 21 municipalities and two cities of the province presented their respective booths and products to the Governor and to the public.
For 50-year-old Mrs. Helen Agullana, a three-time participant from Pagudpud, “Tiendani Gob is a big help to small-business entrepreneurs like me, especially to those who don’t have stable, everyday jobs.” Agullana said both locals and tourists purchased the booth’s shell crafts and other souvenir products throughout the day.
Among the booths prepared and presented, Municipality of Banna won “best booth” as decided by three judges, namely Mr. June Pugat, an Ilocano fashion designer, and Mrs. Luvee Aquino-Calventas and Ms. Leslie Rivera, both college instructors from the Mariano Marcos State University.
Banna highlighted their blend of rice coffee, otap, camote chips, and “suka” or vinegar. Following in the “best booth” award were the Municipalities of Bangui and Badoc, respectively.
“Tiendani Gob” supports Gov. Marcos’ goal to transform the province into a “livable, sustainable, and resilient home” for the Ilocano people – the threefold vision for Ilocos Norte.—(Ma. Christian A. Ramos, PGIN-CMO)
