Despite recent storms, the ‘Himala sa Buhangin’ festival in Ilocos Norte is scheduled to proceed on November 16, 2024, with the goal of raising funds for typhoon victims. Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc has encouraged the community to support the event by purchasing exclusive festival merchandise, including shirts, caps, tumblers, and tote bags, with a portion of the sales going to aid those affected by typhoons in Northern Luzon.
The festival, taking place at the Paoay sand dunes, aims to assist local communities in recovering from recent typhoon damage through the donation of proceeds. A concurrent donation drive will allow attendees to contribute new clothes, blankets, towels, canned goods, noodles, and bottled water at various locations such as the Provincial Capitol, Plaza del Norte in Laoag City, Arte Luna in Paoay, and the Imelda Cultural Center and Mariano Marcos State University High School gate in Batac City.
Xavier Ruiz, from the Ilocos Norte Tourism Office, emphasized the festival’s role in fostering community solidarity through arts and music, urging everyone to participate in this charitable cause. He also noted the significant support from the private sector, which has enhanced the event’s resource management.
While the evening concert remains free for Ilocos Norte residents, tickets ranging from PHP500 to PHP1,500 are available for an enhanced experience, including access to the exclusive Himala lounge with complimentary food, drinks, and limited edition merchandise.
The day’s festivities will kick off at 8 a.m. with a variety of activities such as a 4×4 race, sand boarding, beach volleyball, kayaking, and sand castle building. Local artists and designers have contributed art installations, and the evening will feature a concert, fire and belly dancing, and a foam party.
Additionally, a food park will showcase Asian cuisines, supporting the province’s micro, small, and medium entrepreneurs.