Vigan Cityhood: Vigan as a Municipality then and Vigan as a City now.


    Vigan has always been special. It makes you feel like you've stepped back in time with its Spanish-inspired buildings, cobblestone streets, and rich tradition. But did you realize that Vigan was not always the thriving metropolis it is now? Before being declared a city in 2001, it was a municipality—quieter, simpler, though already rich in history. So, what has changed? And what remained the same?


    Then, Vigan was a little town where life moved slowly. The economy was mostly on farming, fishing, and traditional crafts such as ceramics and weaving. Tourism was less prevalent, and the streets weren’t filled with tourists. However, Vigan was already a treasure. The Spanish-era architecture, local cuisine, and deeply ingrained customs made it a distinct and appealing destination. Of course, being a municipality has its drawbacks. Infrastructure and development resources were limited, and chances for expansion were restricted. The objective was to preserve what was already there rather than expand into something larger.

    When Vigan was established as a city in 2001, Things started changing quickly. Tourism grew dramatically as a result of increased funding and improved infrastructure. More hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops opened, and commerce boomed. The local authorities also worked hard to ensure that growth did not undermine Vigan's historical identity. Strict preservation efforts kept the Spanish-era residences intact, and cultural events such as the Viva Vigan Festival of the Arts thrived. Aside from tourism, cityhood brought improved education, health, and transportation. Schools and hospitals were built and expanded, roads were asphalted, and Vigan was made accessible to both visitors and investors. It was a declaration that legacy and progress were not mutually exclusive.

 


    Of course, challenges persist. Commercialization and modernization have long loomed large over cultural zones. Climate change also poses a hazard, with typhoons becoming more powerful and destroying existing infrastructures. The challenge now is to develop Vigan while maintaining its sense of uniqueness. One thing is certain, Vigan is more than just a city. It is a live, breathing piece of history.






References: 


Skyscanner. (2017, March 12). 6 must-see tourist spots in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur - Skyscanner Philippines. Skyscanner. https://www.skyscanner.com.ph/news/6-favorite-tourist-spots-vigan-city-ilocos-sur


Behance. (n.d.). https://www.behance.net/gallery/15910075/Historic-Town-of-Vigan-Ilocos-Sur?locale=cs_CZ


Vigan | New7Wonders Cities. (2023, June 5). New7Wonders Cities. https://cities.new7wonders.com/wonders/vigan-philippines/


Batanes, Laoag & Vigan | Kara Tours. (2024). Kara Tours. https://www.flywithkaratours.com/filipinos-ilocosregion


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