Ilocos Norte Governor’s Ball 10th Anniversary of Museo Ilocos Norte


Ilocos Norte Gov. Michael M. Keon hosted the 8th Governor’s Ball on 14 November 2009 at the Ilocos Norte Hotel and Convention Center for the benefit of Gameng Foundation that operates Museo Ilocos Norte. In his opening remarks, Gov. Keon underlined the importance of heritage and culture, citing the various accomplishments of the museum, which is also celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.

The event was doubly meaningful as it also served as the soft opening of the hotel and convention center. Rep. Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. of the second district of the province, who initiated the hotel and convention center during his last term as governor, expressed his hope that the new facility will spur further growth in tourist arrivals in the province, aside from providing employment to his provincemates. He informed the appreciative crowd of more than 400 guests that a great majority of the labor and management personnel of the hotel and convention center will be sourced locally.

Three outstanding artisans were awarded the Gameng Lifetime Achievement Award (gameng is the Iloko word for “treasure”) for their contributions to local culture: Rosalina Baldugo Abrojena of Paoay, proprietor and owner of the Nana Rosa original cornick brand; Benito Calingay Agbucar of Carasi, master basket maker; and Modesto Domingo Juan of Sarrat, master of the tambor (drum). Gameng Foundation Chair Irene M. Araneta joined the governor and congressman in presenting the awards.

That talented duo of Glenda Barreto and Claude Tayag conceptualized the unique dinner menu for the ball, which was preapared by the local trio of chefs and restaurateurs – Pam Aragoza (owner of La Preciosa Restaurant), Sam Blas (owner of Saramsam Café) and Eya Cabanos (owner of Mom’s Country Kitchen).

Museo Ilocos Norte will also celebrate Ray-aw! Christmas in Ilocos at the Rockwell Tent in Makati City on 4th of December 2009

Rigodon de Honor

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