Where the Legacy of Vigan Begins

  

  Vigan, one of the oldest towns in the Philippines, has a long history that began in the 16th century when Spanish explorer Juan de Salcedo created a town called Villa Fernandina. Vigan is located at the mouth of the Mestizo River, making it a perfect spot for trading between the local people and Chinese merchants long before Spain arrived. This made Vigan an important center for trade and helped shape its culture and economy.

 

    As a small town, Vigan became a place for business and culture. The town’s buildings showed a mix of Spanish, Chinese, and Filipino styles. The lower floors of the houses were made of stone and brick and were used for shops or storage. The upper floors were made of wood and it is where families lived. During the Galleon Trade, Vigan became a big part of global trade, making it an important city in Asia at the time.

     By the late 1800s, Vigan’s role as a trading center started to fade, but it still kept its cultural importance. The town kept its old cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and important public places, like Plaza Salcedo and Plaza Burgos. These areas showed how Spanish, Chinese, and Ilocano cultures all came together to create Vigan’s unique identity.

     In 2001, Vigan became a city under a new law called Republic Act No. 8988. This was an exciting change for the town, as it gave Vigan the chance to improve its roads, services, and facilities, but still keep its old charm. Becoming a city also helped Vigan grow its economy, especially through tourism. The city’s beautiful old streets, like Calle Crisologo, were restored, attracting visitors from all over the world.

    Now as a city, Vigan has found a way to grow while keeping its history. Its old buildings and streets are still standing, and Vigan has added new services and buildings for locals and tourists. Festivals like the Longganisa and Binatbatan festival celebrate its culture and traditions, helping people remember and appreciate the city’s past.

    Vigan’s journey from a small town to a city shows how it has stayed strong and proud of its heritage. It shows that it’s possible to honor the past while moving forward, making it an example for other towns to follow. Vigan proves that the past and the future can live together in harmony.

References:

UNESCO World Heritage Centre. (n.d.). Historic City of Vigan. Retrieved from https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/502/

Lonely Planet. (n.d.). Vigan, Philippines, Asia. Retrieved from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/philippines/north-luzon/vigan

Tatler Asia. (2021, May 14). Exploring Vigan: A well-preserved Spanish colonial town in the Philippines. Retrieved from https://www.tatlerasia.com/lifestyle/travel/in-its-full-glory

Philippines Cities. (2020, August 14). Vigan City, Ilocos Sur: History, tourist spots, language, and more. Retrieved from https://philippinescities.com/vigan-city-ilocos-sur/

Facebook. (2022, July 7). The Vigan City Hall. Retrieved from https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15fXfuL53h/?mibextid=oFDknk

A Better Tommorow

     

    As the clock strikes 12:00 midnight, people all around the world cheer, and fireworks light up the sky. The scene is one marking not only the end of a year but also the beginning of a new one—a fresh start, a blank page, a chance to reset. The past year, with all its highs and lows, triumphs and failures, had finally come to an end. It's time to put the past in its place, our past mistakes, missed opportunities, and regrets. With a hopeful heart, we welcome a new year, full of endless possibilities.

    This past year really was tough. I did things that made me regret my actions, but still, it was never too late to change. There is always hope for better times and another chance to improve myself. We are not failures because we did not become what we wanted to be or did not achieve all that we dreamed of. It's a long journey, and at times, we fall down. But I will always hold on to the belief that there will be a better tomorrow, for each new day presents an opportunity to try once more.

    The beauty of the new year lies in its promise. The promise that we can grow, change, and be the person and live the life we’ve always wanted. In so many ways, it reminds you, no matter how tough or challenging this year has been, that tomorrow starts anew the chances to rebuild your life better, into a finer and more improved version. The new year is more than just new year resolutions, it is about actually putting words into actions to become the person that we want to be, even if it means starting from zero. 

    We all have moments that we regret, some decisions we wish we could change, or paths we wish we'd taken. But the past is behind us, and the future is ours to shape. It's time to forgive ourselves, let go of the baggage, and work on becoming the best version of who we are meant to be. In 2025, we'll be working on our progress and not perfection. It's okay to stumble and fall along the way. The most important thing is how we rise again, how we learn from the fall, and how we continue.

    This year, it's all about embracing change and growth. It's a reminder that we need not be bound by our past; rather, we can create the future we want. Whether it be for personal development, new passions, or just being in the moment, each day provides an opportunity to transform.

    So let's step into this new year with open hearts and minds, ready to leave the past behind and embrace the endless possibilities ahead. A new year brings new beginnings—and with each new beginning comes the chance to redefine ourselves. Here’s to 2025: a year of growth, resiliency, and becoming the best version of you.

References:

Time and Date (2024). New Year's Day. https://images.app.goo.gl/Qev98YLhLSvp74zU8

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Merry Moments, Endless Enjoyment

    

    

        Having the christmas vacation means having a break and rest from school, or in generally, from everything. It means resting, having a time for yourself, spending more time with your family, reconnecting with nature, and having more time to sleep! And of course, making the most of every moment. Additionally, the atmosphere during christmas season is very calming, it is really cold and windy. I love that weather, really.

    During the christmas vacation, of course I was really looking forward to getting more sleep, and waking up at any time of the day that I would like. I really loved sleeping. I also spent my vacation in my gadgets, or course. I played games and watched a lot of movies and series that i really enjoyed. I was happy I could finally watch the movies I was saving for the christmas vacation.

    Of course I didn't want to just be on my room lying down all day. Our family went to Ilocos Norte for something important and I went to join them. We didn't do much exploring and just went to Robinsons Mall, but I enjoyed the views along the way during the trip there. Also, on Christmas, we, my family, went to Abra, where my father side lives. We spent the christmas there reconnecting and bonding together as we didn't see each other for too long.

    What I loved the most during my Christmas vacation was when my cousins went to us and we shared bond, happiness, and laughter together. I truly cherished spending quality time with them, whether it was playing games, talking to each other, laughing together, or simply enjoying each other's company. The laughter and joy we shared made the holiday season even more special, and those moments are ones I will always treasure.

    My Christmas vacation was truly a memorable one, filled with moments of relaxation, family bonding, and self-care. It was a time to unwind from the usual routine and focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with loved ones and cherishing the simple pleasures of life. The joy of reconnecting with family, the peaceful weather, and the time to rest all made it an unforgettable experience. I’m grateful for the memories created during this holiday season.

    Looking back, I realize how important it is to take a break from the busyness of everyday life and enjoy the holiday moments. Christmas is not only about gifts and celebrations but also about creating memories with the people who matter most. This vacation allowed me to reconnect with family, appreciate the little things, and recharge for the upcoming year. It was a reminder to cherish every moment and make the most of time spent with those we love.

References:

Twinkl (2021). What is Christmas day? | Origin, History & Traditions | Twinkl. https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.twinkl.com.ph%2Fteaching-wiki%2Fchristmas-day&psig=AOvVaw0naliRA9CcADIM5u9q2UaX&ust=1736308357877000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBcQjhxqFwoTCMihw-La4ooDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAb

Interhampers (2024). How Christmas is Celebrated Around the World. https://images.app.goo.gl/te6oHs9ipYMLS6kr5

Time and Date (2024). Christmas Eve 2025 in the Unitwd States. https://images.app.goo.gl/7nxXASmK6py85eCz8