VIGAN CITY (PIA) — Hardworking women in the province of Ilocos Sur were honored by the provincial government in the Women’s Day celebration of the Kannawidan Festival 2023.

Heads of local offices of the national government agencies, provincial board members, spouses of the provincial and municipal officials, owners of local businesses, leaders from the private and civil society organizations, and staff of the provincial capitol gladly joined the said event.

The equally brilliant women of the province portrayed prominent women in the world as they rode Kalesa or horse-drawn carriages around the heart of this city recently.

Chapter administrator of the Philippine Red Cross – Ilocos Sur Veronica Tactay embodied Mother Theresa, known for her work with the poor and for founding the Missionaries of Charity, during the event at the Provincial Farmers Livelihood Development Center.

“I choose this because she is a humanitarian worker who stood up for the poor and the abandoned, that is her advocacy in life which is similar to me having been in service for 17 long years. I am proud to portray her today,” she said.

Expressing her gratitude to the provincial government, she pointed out their aim to support women empowerment.

She stated, “We thank the provincial government that we were given this time to show women’s impactful roles in the society.”

Further, Governor Jerry Singson echoed the government’s deep respect, admiration and acknowledgement for the women.

The governor said, “Your enduring love, care and understanding is monumental in realizing the collective goals of our families, community, and most especially our province. The provincial government regards you as our ally in pursuing our goals for a better future.”

He also expressed his sincerest appreciation to their support in caring for the constituents.

“May not our differences in gender limit our will and the purity in our hearts to contribute something for our development,” he added.

Moreover, the women who joined the celebration were conferred with certificates that honored their portrayal of the famous women and for their participation. (JCR/MJTAB//ATV, PIA Ilocos Sur)