A Journey to Cityhood and Heritage

The transformation of Vigan from municipality to city is a story of preservation and progress. Vigan, being a municipality, was already famous for its cobblestone streets, ancestral houses, and a unique blend of Spanish and Asian influences. Life was simple with agriculture and fishery sustaining the community. Regardless of its small size, the town of Vigan retained its traditions and festivals, like the Viva Vigan Binatbatan Festival of the Arts, celebrated its identity and showcased its historical charm.

 

With the proclamation of cityhood on January 22, 2001, Vigan was opened to new challenges and opportunities. Cityhood helped in improved infrastructures, increased funding, and enhanced public services to improve the level of living of Bigueños. While taking into consideration the problem of balancing modernization and protecting its heritage, local government had transformed Vigan into a top tourist spot. Thus the city became well-known worldwide with recognition in such publications as "one of the New 7 Wonders Cities of the World in 2014" to continue being a cultural gem.

 

Though urbanization came with the problems of increased traffic and commercialization, Vigan's leadership was firm in prioritizing sustainable development. The city welcomed progress without sacrificing its historical character is a testament to its strength. Vigan is now a model for heritage
conservation and development, demonstrating that a community can prosper by respecting its past while creating a sustainable future.







References:

Vigan city PH. (2025). Instagram. https://www.google.com/urlsa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.instagram.com%2Fvigancityph%2Fp%2FDFF_PVCP3HM%2F&psig=AOvVaw3DeCVgcHJr_Dmpy0OZKov&ust=1738638740439000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCLD-xZzEposDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAV

Vigan. (n.d.).Vigan. (n.d.). New 7 Wonder Cities. https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcities.new7wonders.com%2Fwonders%2Fvigan-philippines%2F&psig=AOvVaw2BtvS4g_u_cnkl1YFKsxj3&ust=1738639222785000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCLjk8IHGposDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAE

Vigan City Guide: Where To Stay And How To Get There. (2023). LAIDBACK TRIP. https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.laidbacktrip.com%2Fposts%2Fvigan-ilocos-sur-hotels-bus&psig=AOvVaw2BtvS4g_u_cnkl1YFKsxj3&ust=1738639222785000&source=images&cd=vfe&opi=89978449&ved=0CBQQjRxqFwoTCLjk8IHGposDFQAAAAAdAAAAABAJ

New Year, Better Me!

The start of a new year is a very potent symbol of renewal. It's a time for reflection on what has happened in the past and looking forward into the future with hope and intention. Many of us embrace the mantra "New Year, New Me" to signal our desire for growth and change. But turning those words into action requires more than just good intentions—it takes clarity, commitment, and consistency.

Set intentional goals. Forget the vague resolutions and instead, set specific, achievable steps aligned with your values. For example, if you want to be healthier, you commit to something clear like "30 minutes of exercise three times a week" or "meal prepping every Sunday." It is through these small, actionable steps that create momentum, and celebrating each step along the way keeps you motivated.

This year, embrace the journey of becoming your best self, one step at a time. Whether you’re looking to improve your habits, nurture relationships, or pursue a long-held dream, the possibilities are endless. As 2025 unfolds, let “New Year, New Me” serve not just as a resolution but as a commitment to growth, resilience, and self-discovery.

References:

Serafim, J. (2022). New Year New Me Better Me Stock Illustration 1878754303 | Shutterstock. Shutterstock. https://www.shutterstock.com/image-illustration/new-year-me-better-motivational-inspirational-1878754303

Team, P. E. (2024, September 11). 75 New Year Quotes for Bold New Beginnings in 2025. Pensador. https://www.pensador.com/en/new_year_quotes/

Liles, M. (2020, January 15). Turn Your Bad Day Around! These 100 Stay Positive Quotes Will Lift Your Spirits in No Time. Parade. https://parade.com/980089/marynliles/stay-positive-quotes/

Cherished Memories

     The Christmas holidays are kind of a mix and match of happiness, nostalgia, and bonding this year. The festive season started as soon as the actual decorating of the house happened. From twisting on a twinkling light to putting ornaments up on the Christmas tree, one could feel the warmth of the season with each ornament and garland placed.

     My Christmas holidays began with a daily attendance in the Simbang Gabi and completed the 9 days. Christmas Eve was very special that evening. The family gathered together for dinner after attending the mass. Dishes of meat, fresh salads, and traditional holiday desserts were spread across the table, with laughter and stories flowing freely.

      In the following days, there were times for reflection and unwinding . Cozy afternoons, getting along with friends had filled the rhythm to the season's beat. Except for spending quite a lot of time at home, I met my friends whenever I could spend some time off. On the very last day to New Year eve, December 30, Me and my elementary school friends went out and the warmth of reliving old and making new friends was unforgettable in my life as well.

           

           In such silence, we say goodbye to 2024 with calm resolutions and a renewed spirit. We welcomed the New Year by scrumptious food and traditional practices that brought the family closer. It was family as if bonding through a meal together, lighting up sparklers, and going about customs like jumping for good luck and preparation of the prosperity bowl. The Christmas holidays carried with them much festivity but also reflection and moments of connection-thus, great warmth was the afterglow of these times.

Reference:

https://www.bloger.com/