“Bagnet” Festival in Ilocos Sur The “Bagnet” Festival of Narvacan, Ilocos Sur had already reached the level as one of the most popular and major festivals in the province following its overwhelming and successful celebration last December 13, 2011. Thousands of local residents, visitors and tourists crowded both sides of the road to witness the street dancing of the contingents coming from the different schools, non–government organizations (NGOs) from the town's 34 barangays. The street dancers entertained the viewers while they were interpreting the cultural practices in making the “bagnet” food delicacy. The first “Bagnet” Festival was launched on December 13, 2010 through the initiative of Mayor Zuriel S. Zaragoza, not only to promote the town's tourism industry but also to establish the town's identity as the “original” producer of famous and delicious bagnet food delicacy in Northern Luzon. In addition, the Bagnet Festival showcased the culture and tradition of Narvacaneos who were known as sturdy people proud of their roots and glorious past. Now, the Bagnet food product was registered by the local government unit (LGU) of Narvacan with the Department of Trade and Industry as its One-Town-One-Product (OTOP). This is in line with the government's thrust of revitalizing the economic capability and sustainability of LGUs by promoting their respective products.
Jennileyn
As one of the emerging centers of domestic and foreign tourists owing to its strategic location as the Gateway to the Cordilleras and the Heart of Ilocandia, Narvacan prides itself for having fine beaches and historical and scenic spots. The Bagnet Festival, like many other festivals undertaken by the different localities in the country, have promoted the town's rich heritage, culture and tradition and opened its door to bigger investment opportunities. The holding of the first-ever Narvacan Bagnet Festival coincided with the celebration of the town's 434th founding anniversary. Spanish Captain Juan de Salcedo established Narvacan as a town in 1576. The first Bagnet Festival was highlighted with street dancing, the Bagnet culinary competition, among others. Frank Cimatu, PDI - North Luzon Bureau
Freddie G .Lazaro, PIA-1
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