Vigan Philippines which is located in Ilocos Sur Province, is famous for
the old massive stonewalls and Spanish brick houses which date back to
the Spanish colonization period. Vigan is a good example of how
sustainable cultural practices could turn a drab town into a UNESCO World
Heritage Site and make it even better over the years. Since its inscription in
1999, by using a holistic approach to tackle related issues one by one, Mayor
Eva Marie Singson-Medina and her team managed to make the city livable again as
well as to instill a sense of pride to the residents. They have won numerous awards such as the most child-friendly city and
the cleanest and greenest city. As a result, other neighboring municipalities
also joined Vigan to be under the same jurisdiction and Vigan City became
a fine example for other heritage sites in Asia Pacific. This are some of the reasons why we; the Ilocanos are very proud of our own place.
By the way, I would like to highlight about one special event in Vigan that must be tackled by me and that is the Kannawidan Festival of Vigan.
The Kannawidan Ylocos Fest, launched in 2008, will be held in front
of Provincial Capitol Hall and Quadrangle, Plaza Salcedo, Plaza
Encarnacion and President Quirino Stadium and it will follow immediately after the 10-day Vigan Longganiza Festival from January 16 to 26.
The Vigan Philippines festival aims to harness Ilocos Sur's rich
historical values and products in order to attract foreign and local
tourists and investors. Like last year, thousands tourists and
visitors are expected to flock to Vigan Philippines and its neighboring
towns during the unique festival to have a glimpse of the old
traditions, culture and unique products of the people of Ilocos Sur. “Through
this Kannawidan Ylocos Festival, an Iluko term which means feast of all
heritages, practices and products in Ilocos Sur, we will showcase and
promote our old customs, traditions, culture and products to strengthen
their demand,” Savellano said. In addition to these, many activities are being prepared for this speacial event were Ilocano people show their unseen talents.
I will never deny that I'm a certified Ilocano that I am living in a wonderful place like Vigan! Be proud Bigenyos :)