The Ilocos Sur government on Wednesday called on artists to join the art competition for the 16th Kannawidan Festival that will be held at the National Museum of the Philippines-Ilocos Regional Complex in Vigan City from Jan. 29 to 30.

The art competition, which will include on-the-spot plein air painting, sculpture, and seed mosaic, is among the highlights of the festival that marks the 205th anniversary of Ilocos Sur becoming an independent province when it separated from Ilocos Norte province through a Spanish Royal Decree in Feb. 2, 1818.

Governor Jerry Singson said they are also preparing other activities for the festival including concerts, livelihood trainings, a beauty pageant, street dancing, pride parade, and a mass at the St. Paul Cathedral in Vigan City.

“Attractive prizes await winners in the different events,” the governor said.

Apart from artists, tourists were likewise enjoined to join the festivities which runs until February. (PNA)