Laoag City celebrated its Tan-ok ni Ilocano Festival in Ilocos Norte last February 24, with President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. declaring that the province "is ready to reclaim the time and opportunities we have lost for the last few years” during his speech.

“I assure you that the government's commitment to strengthen the domestic tourism industry remains a top priority and Ilocos Norte will play a very large part in that. The number of visitor arrivals is recovering. It is my hope that by working together, we restore Ilocos' vibrancy in tourism to pre-pandemic levels and beyond," Marcos said.

The chief executive added that their lines are always open for fresh and innovative ideas for the tourism industry to thrive in the future.

The President added that he wanted Secretary Frasco to see the importance of the traditional culture in the Philippines as it can show the pride of the country and its culture, as well as, the Filipinos in order to gain economic recovery through tourism.

Marcos said that the country is ready to reclaim the time and opportunities that it has lost for the last few years, noting that through tourism, the event can revive economic activity and support Ilokano families.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco was also present at the event.