Good Life and the Peace Talks
Photo grab from GMA News Online (http://images.gmanews.tv/webpics/2016/08/640_ZZZ_082616_oslo_peace_talks_3_2016_08_26_10_48_31.jpg) Historians and social scientists have always attributed Ilocano diaspora on their search for friendlier environment and better livelihood. The narrowness of the land and harsh climate of the region had always made living a challenge for the Ilocanos. Land-strapped, the feudal exploitation is much more intense compared to others. Constant visit from dry spells and strong typhoons make bountiful harvests difficult. Economic opportunities are hard to come by, political dynasties of landed and merchant clans replaced foreign dominance that pervaded during the Spanish and American period in all aspects of society. These factors shaped the Ilocano to be hardworking and resilient, tirelessly struggling for better living conditions – for a good life or nasayaat a panagbiag in Iloco. A study conducted by Joy Racquel R. Tadeo in 2012, then a student of M