Burnay or jar forming

Locally-made antique furniture

Ilocos Surians pay homage to the Sto. Niño

Photos Courtesy of www.visit-ilocos.com

The Ilocanos have an elaborate network of culture, beliefs, customs and traditions through which they deal with people around them and through the years, these were developed and nurtured by their ancestors and carried on to the next generations.

The Ilocanos are noted for their tendency to migrate in search for greater opportunities. Their adventurous character proved to be advantageous because many families in the province are dollar earners which contributed to its economic advancement. Hardworking as they are known of, Ilocanos do not only devote their time in agriculture for a living, but also engage in livelihood endeavors for additional income. Some of the notable products like abel iloco, jar or “burnay”, and buri crafts are produced in Ilocos Sur and anyone who visits the province does not contend to just seeing the place without having a taste of the native delicacies like bibingka, empanada, longganisa and bagnet among others, and for pasalubong to families and friends.

Ilocos Surians are generally religious. With the province’s total population, about 85% are Catholics. The massive churches which now form part of the pilgrimage churches are the most enduring relics of the colonial era. They are outstanding landmarks of the places where they are located. This includes the Sta. Maria Church, and its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage lists has made the church even more interesting to visit. Vigan Cathedral on the other hand is the seat of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia and site of religious activities.