Over 30 local merchants are set to take part in a two-day weekend market at the Sirib (Knowledge) Mile along Ablan Avenue in this city on Friday and Saturday (March 10 and 11).

Organized by the Ilocos Norte government through its Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Office (MSMEO) and the Ilocos Norte Tourism Office (INTO), the weekend market aims to promote homegrown enterprises in the province as it prepares for the influx of tourists this summer.

INTO head Aianree Raquel said visitors can stroll along the Sirib Mile food strip and the new Ferdinand E. Marcos Sports Stadium starting 3 p.m.

Aside from giving local entrepreneurs a venue to promote their products, the weekend market also offers free entertainment to the public.

Due to its wide space and convenient location, the Sirib Mile was earlier developed as a one-stop learning center for students.

The school roads, which include parts of Ablan Avenue and other roads connecting three public schools, two colleges and roads connecting the Laoag Centennial Arena, Marcos Stadium and the Department of Education building, were turned as a university belt (U-Belt) with learning art installations and sculptures.

Raquel said they hope to sustain the economic growth of the province with the revival of the weekend market in the same area. (PNA)