Vigan, Ilocos Sur

The last stop of our northern exposure was the rustic town of Vigan. It was quite different from what I expected. The town of Vigan is now modern with several establishments from food chains, banks, restaurants and souvenir stores. The only reminder of the Spanish ear is the famed Calle Crisologo and some museums.



The Crisologo museum ignited an interest among me and my friends to research on the intriguing and colorful history of politics in Ilocos. We started with how the late Congressman Floro Crisologo was murdered during a mass in the Vigan Cathedral and his son, Bingbong, was accused of arson. A few days ago, I was reading on the history of martial law in our country. Who do you think has the biggest to gain with the murder of Congressman Floro Crisologo?

Sadly, due to time-constraint, we were only able to visit Calle Crisologo and the Crisologo museum. We weren’t able to see the rest of the museums like those by the Quirino family and the Ayala museum.





Calle Crisologo is a road with a long stretch of houses dating back from the Spanish era. The streets are made of cobbled stones. The houses have been converted to souvenir stores.

(a shot of me at Calle Crisologo, Vigan)

Earlier that day, we visited Baluarte of Chavit Singson. Baluarte showcases the collection of animals by the former governor of Ilocos Sur. Singson’ property is enormous – the same goes with his collection of animals. There is no entrance fee. I’m wondering where he gets the funds to maintain the place.