Santacruzan of Ilocos Norte

Santacruzan is a religious and historical pageant of beauties held in many places in the Philippines during the moth of May. This time around its in the province of Ilocos Norte. It is the joyous commemoration of the finding of the Holy Cross of Reyna Elena with her son Constantino.

Before I flew to Manila, I dropped by at the Capitol to witness even just a little of what they prepared for in the celebration of Santacruzan of Ilocos Norte for this year. It was participated in by the different towns of the province. What fascinated me most was the showcase of a muse clad in an Igorot inspired gown escorted by men wearing bahag. It was a creative way to display the indigenous culture and indigenous materials into the Santacruzan festivities. Celebrities such as Ritch Asuncion and Carlo Aquino were invited to grace the celebration and became part of the sagala. Hermana mayor this year was Atty. Amuerfina Salenda, a member of the provincial board.