Vigan Cityhood

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            Vigan is located in the province of Ilocos Sur, on the western coast of Luzon, facing the South China Sea. It is known for its old streets designed with cobblestones, Spanish-era houses, and traditional horse-drawn carriages called kalesas. Vigan is accessible from nearby provinces and serves as a historical and cultural center in the region. Its location made it an important area for trade and governance during the Spanish colonial period.

            Vigan has a long history that began as a trading post for Chinese, Indian, and Malay merchants. It grew in importance when the Spaniards arrived in the 16th century and made it one of their key settlements in the north. It was originally called "Ciudad Fernandina" in honor of King Ferdinand of Spain. Over time, Vigan became a municipality under the Philippine government. On January 22, 2001, Vigan officially became a city through Republic Act 8988. This change reflected its growing economy and recognition as a cultural landmark.

            As a municipality, Vigan was a small town focused on agriculture and fishing. Local businesses were small-scale, and trade mostly served the needs of the community. It was already known for its Spanish-style buildings, which gave it historical importance, but its economy and infrastructure were limited.

            Today, as a city, Vigan is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved Spanish colonial structures. It is a center of tourism, with Calle Crisologo being its most famous street, lined with ancestral houses and shops. The economy has expanded to include tourism, pottery, weaving, and local food industries. Festivals such as the Viva Vigan Binatbatan Festival of Arts promote its history and traditions, attracting visitors from different places.

        The transition from municipality to city reflects Vigan’s growth in terms of economy and historical importance. It shows how the city has balanced development while protecting its cultural heritage.





Resource/s

  • Philippine Statistics Authority. (2001). Republic Act No. 8988: An Act converting the municipality of Vigan into a component city to be known as the City of Vigan. Retrieved from https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph
  • UNESCO World Heritage Centre. (n.d.). Historic town of Vigan. Retrieved from https://whc.unesco.org
  • National Historical Commission of the Philippines. (n.d.). Vigan’s historical significance. Retrieved from https://nhcp.gov.ph
  • Zaide, G. F. (1999). Philippine history and government. Quezon City, Philippines: National Bookstore.
  • Deen-Tagada, R. (n.d.). [Photo of Vigan streets]. Pinterest. Retrieved from https://www.pinterest.com

  • Behold Philippines. (n.d.). Bantay Bell Tower, Vigan, Ilocos Sur [Photograph]. Pinterest. Retrieved from https://www.pinterest.com

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