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Sunday, January 26, 2025

Vigan Cityhood - Vigan as a Municipality then and Vigan as a City now

 The history of Vigan from being a municipality to its recognition as a city is a testament to its rich history, culture, and development. Located in the province of Ilocos Sur, Vigan is renowned for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, making it a unique blend of historical charm and modern progress. Let us delve into the story of Vigan, tracing its roots as a municipality and exploring its growth as a city. Back then, 1758 “ Inilipat ang DIOCESE of Nueve Segovia Mula Sa Lal-Lo Cagayan” This is a proof that vigan is important for spanish people. At the same time, KING Ferdinand the IV of Spain released a royal decree declaring that Villa Fernandina de Vigan would become Ciudad Fernandina de Vigan.


                                                              Image mine

During its time as a municipality, Vigan was already the confluence of culture and history. Founded during the Spanish colonial period, it served as an administrative center and a busy trading post. The cobblestone streets, ancestral houses, and baroque-style churches that dot the area today were founded in that era under the influence of Spanish architecture and urban planning. Vigan had relied heavily on small-scale businesses and agriculture as a municipality. Farmers, potters, and weavers became the main drivers of the local economy. Despite its low economic activity, Vigan's historical significance and its position as a regional cultural hub have made it significant.
One of the most important periods in Vigan's history was the city's transformation from a municipality. Following the approval of the conversion in a plebiscite by the local population, Vigan became a city on January 22, 2001, by virtue of Republic Act No. 9411. This feat gave Vigan the institutional and infrastructural uplift, thus giving more access to its people to better governance and services.



                                                                   Image from facebook

One of the major forces that pushed Vigan to cityhood is heritage. Realizing its outstanding historical value, Vigan was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, a year before it was declared a city. From then on, it called for sustainable development while preserving its heritage and economy.
 Today, Vigan City is a shining example of how heritage and progress can be made to coexist harmoniously. The place has joined the ranks of modernization without compromising its cultural identity. Its economy has diversified, with tourism at the very center. Every year, thousands of tourists go from all over the world to Vigan to enjoy the Heritage Crisologo, regional handicrafts, and real Ilocano food. Vigan has also advanced as a city in terms of infrastructure and government. The standard of living for its citizens has increased as a result of investments in public services, health care, and education. In order to promote sustainable urban growth, the city has put rules into place that will protect its historical landmarks.

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