...good day viewers... this blog is for my subject requirement and the contents of this are copy pasted from www.vigan.ph ... thank you =) and godbless...
Allen Ausbert Leaus Parel Quemi
BS Accountancy IV
Northwestern University
Saturday, July 7, 2012
welcome
Welcome to Vigan!
Vigan is one of
Philippines' most beautiful cities, as it showcases the Spanish heritage of the
country.
Vigan city is located in
the northern part of the Philippines and it's historical center, which is
called the heritage village, is listed on the UNESCO world heritage list since
2 December 1999 for it's unique spanish colonial history in Asia and the very
well preserved spanish monumental buildings which where build in the 18th
century.
calle crisologo
Calle Crisologo - Mena Crisologo Street
The major attraction of Vigan is its mestizo
district which is filled with Spanish-style houses that evoke a bygone era when
its people lived prosperously because of the Manila-Acapulco maritime trade.
For visitors who want to experience being transported back to this period in Philippine Spanish colonial time, a walk or a calesa ride through Vigan’s Calle Crisologo or Mena Crisologo Street is a must.
The tour will take visitors more than a couple of hours and will cost around half a thousand pesos. You will be guided through four blocks of cobblestone streets lined with heritage houses of the families of the Filipino-Chinese traders who rose to prominence during that time of vigorous trading in abel cloth, indigo, gold, tobacco and other goods that were transported to Vigan from all over the North.
The houses are simple but lovely subjects ready for picture-perfect shots with their roofs of red tiles, thick walls, huge doors and stair cases leading to rooms of high ceilings and sliding capiz shell windows. Having survived the many natural and man-made calamities throughout the centuries, the families who own these treasures have endeavored to maintain them.
Visitors can admire more closely the architecture and intricate craftsmanship employed in the grill and wood works when they step inside some of the houses that have been turned into stores and museums. They can even experience staying in a heritage house during their visit as some have been converted into inns.
Though a trip to Calle Crisologo is enjoyable during the day especially because of the opportunity to shop for Vigan’s best products (antiques, abel woven products, bags, basi wine, burnay and dimili products, chicharon, jewelry, sweets, Vigan vinegar and woodcrafts) in the inobtrusive shops located in the ground floor of some of the grand houses, a walk through it is magical at night.
Since it is closed to vehicular traffic at any time of the day, the stillness and shadows that come with the night adds more to the 18th century ambience of the lamp-lit street that local and foreign visitors love. Couples can take advantage of this romantic atmosphere by having dinner in one of the old houses that has been converted to a restaurant, like Café Leona, before or after their walk.
For those who want to know something about the person the street is named after, Mena Pecson Crisologo is among the most-respected sons of the Ilokos region. He wrote Mining wenno Ayat ti Kararwa, which many compare to Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere; an Ilocano translation of Don Quixote entitled Don Calixtofaro de la Kota Caballero de la Luna; and a zarzuela entitled Codigo Municipal.
For visitors who want to experience being transported back to this period in Philippine Spanish colonial time, a walk or a calesa ride through Vigan’s Calle Crisologo or Mena Crisologo Street is a must.
The tour will take visitors more than a couple of hours and will cost around half a thousand pesos. You will be guided through four blocks of cobblestone streets lined with heritage houses of the families of the Filipino-Chinese traders who rose to prominence during that time of vigorous trading in abel cloth, indigo, gold, tobacco and other goods that were transported to Vigan from all over the North.
The houses are simple but lovely subjects ready for picture-perfect shots with their roofs of red tiles, thick walls, huge doors and stair cases leading to rooms of high ceilings and sliding capiz shell windows. Having survived the many natural and man-made calamities throughout the centuries, the families who own these treasures have endeavored to maintain them.
Visitors can admire more closely the architecture and intricate craftsmanship employed in the grill and wood works when they step inside some of the houses that have been turned into stores and museums. They can even experience staying in a heritage house during their visit as some have been converted into inns.
Though a trip to Calle Crisologo is enjoyable during the day especially because of the opportunity to shop for Vigan’s best products (antiques, abel woven products, bags, basi wine, burnay and dimili products, chicharon, jewelry, sweets, Vigan vinegar and woodcrafts) in the inobtrusive shops located in the ground floor of some of the grand houses, a walk through it is magical at night.
Since it is closed to vehicular traffic at any time of the day, the stillness and shadows that come with the night adds more to the 18th century ambience of the lamp-lit street that local and foreign visitors love. Couples can take advantage of this romantic atmosphere by having dinner in one of the old houses that has been converted to a restaurant, like Café Leona, before or after their walk.
For those who want to know something about the person the street is named after, Mena Pecson Crisologo is among the most-respected sons of the Ilokos region. He wrote Mining wenno Ayat ti Kararwa, which many compare to Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere; an Ilocano translation of Don Quixote entitled Don Calixtofaro de la Kota Caballero de la Luna; and a zarzuela entitled Codigo Municipal.
baluarte
Baluarte Vigan - Fortress of Vigan
The Baluarte or fortress
is a must-see attraction for first time visitors, and even for those who have
visited Vigan before. The reasons for its being on the list of places to visit
are two. First is that it has a mini zoo with animals from other countries and
others endemic to the Philippines. It is a private collection and is therefore
continuously being improved. The second reason is that it is owned by Mr.
Chavit Singson, a well-loved son of Vigan and well-known to most Filipinos and
foreigners who follow the Philippine political scene.
The resort complex lies in hectares of land that stretches from the rolling plain towards the hills, where
The resort complex lies in hectares of land that stretches from the rolling plain towards the hills, where
the former governor’s
multi-storey house sits with a grand view of Vigan and the South China Sea.
Within its private area
is a landscaped garden complete with its own nature pools. However, the area
open to the public has plenty more engaging attractions that visitors can busy
themselves with aside from the mini zoo. There is a butterfly farm, a track for
horse riding and a skeet shooting range.
Visitors can start with visiting the rows of cages where they can see lions, Bengal tigers, peacocks, civet cats, iguanas, pythons and other reptiles and birds. In this part of the Baluarte, people will also be able to see the Philippine cloud rat, a nocturnal animal endemic to the Philippine Cordillera region. This very large rodent is an herbivore and hunted by large birds and local people.
From the caged animals, visitors can move on to the fenced areas where they can visit and feed the monkeys, swans, flamingos, ostriches, albino and spotted deer and the one-hump camel. Children are allowed to sit on top of the bigger animals, but if they really want to ride, they can go to the tracks where they can ride the miniature horses.
For a closer encounter with the animals, visitors may choose to visit and feed the parrots and hornbills
Visitors can start with visiting the rows of cages where they can see lions, Bengal tigers, peacocks, civet cats, iguanas, pythons and other reptiles and birds. In this part of the Baluarte, people will also be able to see the Philippine cloud rat, a nocturnal animal endemic to the Philippine Cordillera region. This very large rodent is an herbivore and hunted by large birds and local people.
From the caged animals, visitors can move on to the fenced areas where they can visit and feed the monkeys, swans, flamingos, ostriches, albino and spotted deer and the one-hump camel. Children are allowed to sit on top of the bigger animals, but if they really want to ride, they can go to the tracks where they can ride the miniature horses.
For a closer encounter with the animals, visitors may choose to visit and feed the parrots and hornbills
that are placed in a more
open area where visitors can openly approach them with bananas and seeds. There
are also scheduled show and tell times when audiences are introduced to the
animals.
An added attraction is the butterfly garden where one can observe thousands of butterflies, some endemic to the Philippines, or have a more serene interaction with an animal species.
An added attraction is the butterfly garden where one can observe thousands of butterflies, some endemic to the Philippines, or have a more serene interaction with an animal species.
vigan houses
Vigan Houses
Vigan’s inclusion in the UNESCO World
Heritage List is due to the preservation of around 187 residential,
institutional, commercial and religious structures that transport visitors to
the past. What’s amazing about these structures is that they continue to be
used by current locals as they were used by former owners who lived in the 18th
century. Their structural endurance and relevance to every-day use until this
modern day is testament to the genius and high-level of craftsmanship in the
creation of these architectural treasures.
Vigan houses before the colonization of Spain were made from light-weight materials such as bamboo, nipa and cogon. These were called bahay-kubo and are airy and easy to clean, but were of no match to the typhoons that visit the land during the wet season, or even the occasional fires.
When the Spaniards came together with their Mexican subjects, the locals learned from them how to quarry, prepare the stones and make bricks. They also learned how to make these into fire-resistant building materials by applying lime mortar. Though the structures they constructed using these materials fared better in withstanding typhoons and fires, the structures were still easy casualties of earthquakes.
Even though there were some houses whose first and second floors are built in pure masonry that survived the elements, Biguenos still endeavored to find better ways of building. What they did was to mix their indigenous construction methods with that of the Europeans’. They retained the bahay-kubo’s interlocking wooden post and beam system. The mortared bricks and stones were used for the walls of the first floor, while the second floors were made largely of timber. This kind of construction proved to weather earthquakes and storms better and can be seen in the preserved houses of Vigan.
Vigan houses are also noteworthy because they are a bit bigger than the usual Asian houses.
Vigan houses before the colonization of Spain were made from light-weight materials such as bamboo, nipa and cogon. These were called bahay-kubo and are airy and easy to clean, but were of no match to the typhoons that visit the land during the wet season, or even the occasional fires.
When the Spaniards came together with their Mexican subjects, the locals learned from them how to quarry, prepare the stones and make bricks. They also learned how to make these into fire-resistant building materials by applying lime mortar. Though the structures they constructed using these materials fared better in withstanding typhoons and fires, the structures were still easy casualties of earthquakes.
Even though there were some houses whose first and second floors are built in pure masonry that survived the elements, Biguenos still endeavored to find better ways of building. What they did was to mix their indigenous construction methods with that of the Europeans’. They retained the bahay-kubo’s interlocking wooden post and beam system. The mortared bricks and stones were used for the walls of the first floor, while the second floors were made largely of timber. This kind of construction proved to weather earthquakes and storms better and can be seen in the preserved houses of Vigan.
Vigan houses are also noteworthy because they are a bit bigger than the usual Asian houses.
This is because they not only serve as
residences but as shops and storage as well, like those in other
trading centers. These storage and shop areas
are in the ground floor together with the carriage area.
A big staircase leads to the living areas in
the upper floors consisting of living room, dining area and kitchen, bedrooms
and a toilet.
Light and air flow freely. There is usually an open terrace connected to the dining area or kitchen.
Light and air flow freely. There is usually an open terrace connected to the dining area or kitchen.
Large windows made of wood and capiz shells
surround the house with balustered sliding panels in the lower part that allows
one to view the streets while sitting on the floor. Roofs and eaves are
extended to ward off harsh sunlight and rain.
The Biguenos also made use of terracotta and decorative friezes and partitions to show their artistry and add beauty to each function of the house’s architectural detail. This mixing of technology of the east and west, function and beauty, has given Vigan houses its unique style of architecture.
The Biguenos also made use of terracotta and decorative friezes and partitions to show their artistry and add beauty to each function of the house’s architectural detail. This mixing of technology of the east and west, function and beauty, has given Vigan houses its unique style of architecture.
Crisologo Museum
Crisologo Museum
The perpetuation of the memory of a tragic event is an interesting impetus for
establishing a museum. However, it is from where the intent for converting the
imposing, century-old family mansion of the Crisologos into a museum started.
Floro S. Crisologo was the patriarch of the clan and a congressman known for being responsible for landmark legislations that not only benefited his constituents but the whole country as well. He authored the laws behind the creation of the North’s first state university, the University of Northern Philippines, and the establishment of the Social Security System, which serves the whole working populace to this day.
On a Sunday in October 1970, while he was inside the St. Paul’s Cathedral, Congressman Crisologo was shot in the head by a still unidentified gunman. Survived by his children and wife, Carmeling Crisologo, the family announced that they will not take any action to exact revenge. Although, they made sure that the life and death of their patriarch will not be forgotten through the establishment of the Crisologo museum. Floro Crisologo’s murder during that bloody period in Philippine politics remains unsolved to this day.
The mansion of the Crisologos is open for public viewing throughout the week. Visitors may find it in Vigan’s Liberation Boulevard. One may enter for free the museum and view the antiques, memorabilia and other prized possessions of the Crisologos steeped with history.
Starting with the displays in the first floor, visitors will find an antique calesa that is still being used as film props and as a wedding carriage. There is also an old car where Floro Crisologo’s wife survived an attempt on her life while she was pregnant and serving as governor of the province. Her child was given the name of bullet because of that incident.
The first floor also houses the library and study, where visitors can view the book collection and numerous news clippings about this political family, especially about their patriarch’s death. There is a central exhibit in the house that shows the bloodied clothing of the late congressman.
The museum is managed by the Crisologo family and is well-maintained. This is evident in the polished floors of the second floor as well as the well-kept details of the various rooms. One may enter the master’s bedroom and view private possessions and clothing as if one just intruded into an everyday scene and a member of the family might catch you looking at any time.
It is interesting to know that before he was killed, the congressman was in the process of having a bill approved to abolish the death penalty because he believed that death was not the solution to stopping crime.
Floro S. Crisologo was the patriarch of the clan and a congressman known for being responsible for landmark legislations that not only benefited his constituents but the whole country as well. He authored the laws behind the creation of the North’s first state university, the University of Northern Philippines, and the establishment of the Social Security System, which serves the whole working populace to this day.
On a Sunday in October 1970, while he was inside the St. Paul’s Cathedral, Congressman Crisologo was shot in the head by a still unidentified gunman. Survived by his children and wife, Carmeling Crisologo, the family announced that they will not take any action to exact revenge. Although, they made sure that the life and death of their patriarch will not be forgotten through the establishment of the Crisologo museum. Floro Crisologo’s murder during that bloody period in Philippine politics remains unsolved to this day.
The mansion of the Crisologos is open for public viewing throughout the week. Visitors may find it in Vigan’s Liberation Boulevard. One may enter for free the museum and view the antiques, memorabilia and other prized possessions of the Crisologos steeped with history.
Starting with the displays in the first floor, visitors will find an antique calesa that is still being used as film props and as a wedding carriage. There is also an old car where Floro Crisologo’s wife survived an attempt on her life while she was pregnant and serving as governor of the province. Her child was given the name of bullet because of that incident.
The first floor also houses the library and study, where visitors can view the book collection and numerous news clippings about this political family, especially about their patriarch’s death. There is a central exhibit in the house that shows the bloodied clothing of the late congressman.
The museum is managed by the Crisologo family and is well-maintained. This is evident in the polished floors of the second floor as well as the well-kept details of the various rooms. One may enter the master’s bedroom and view private possessions and clothing as if one just intruded into an everyday scene and a member of the family might catch you looking at any time.
It is interesting to know that before he was killed, the congressman was in the process of having a bill approved to abolish the death penalty because he believed that death was not the solution to stopping crime.
Father Burgos Museum
This museum is the ancestral house
and birthplace of priest patriot Fr. Jose Burgos. Known as Padre Burgos House,
it is one of the notable historic structures of Vigan, the capital of the
province of Ilocos Sur. It is a two-story structure located near the Provincial
Capitol and close to St. Paul’s Metropolitan Cathedral. It was renovated by the
Filipinas Foundation, Inc. and inaugurated on May 3, 1975. In January 1989, a
Contract of Lease was executed by the Ilocos Sur Historical and Cultural
Foundation, Inc. leasing the memorabilia for 50 years, and turning over the
administration to the National Museum.
Vigan is strategically located at
the delta of Abra River and was the center of political, religious, economic,
social and cultural activities in Northern Luzon for more than three centuries.
This city became the hotbed of social unrest against colonial abuses. Among those
who led the cause for patriotism were the Bigueños Fr. Jose Burgos, the poetess
Leona Florentino, her son Isabelo de los Reyes (father of Philippine Labor
Unionism) and Elpidio Quirino, the second President of the Republic.
The historic city of Vigan was
inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on December 2, 1999.
Collections
Iloco-Kankanay-Itneg material
culture: wooden plates and bowls; wooden coffins; burial chair; musical
instruments such as drum (tambur), bamboo mouth flute (paldeng), and brass gong
(gansa); weaponry such as shield (kalasag) and spears; weaving implements and
wooden loom (pag-ablan); textiles; jars.
Trade ceramics; models of two
trading vessels.
Dioramas of local historical events;
photographs of individuals who contributed to the socio-cultural development
and history of the region and of the Philippines.
Old books and historical records.
Memorabilia of Father Burgos and his
family; period furniture pieces.
Oil paintings of the Basi Revolt of 1807 by Don Esteban Villanueva.
Oil paintings of the Basi Revolt of 1807 by Don Esteban Villanueva.
Liturgical collection.
Vigan Cathedral
Vigan Carthedral
Vigan Cathedral (also known as St Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral) faces Plaza Salcedo, and is an imposing creamy-white building built in the "earthquake baroque" style with thick buttresses to support it through earthquakes and typhoons. A separate belltower (or belfry) was built 15 meters away from the main building -- so that if one structure was destroyed in an earthquake, then the other might still remain standing. The belltower is about 25 meters high and it is surmounted by a large bronze weathercock that is said to symbolize St Peter.
Inside you will see an impressive altar with hammered-silver panels.
The influence of Vigan's Chinese residents on the design of the cathedral may be seen in the two fu dogs on the outer doors and in the octagonal shape of the belltower.
The first church was built on this site in 1574 (by Juan de Salcedo) and was damaged in the earthquakes of 1619 and 1627. A second was built here in 1641; and the present baroque-style church was built in the 1800s.
Longganisa Festival
Vigan City Fiesta
Vigan’s main church, the Metropolitan Cathedral is dedicated to St. Paul and it stands at the core of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia. The major Catholic educational institution in Vigan that stands beside the church is also dedicated to the patron, the St. Paul College of Ilocos Sur. The Vigan City Fiesta usually lasts for several days. It includes within the period the celebration of the anniversary of the cityhood of Vigan, which is commemorated every January 27.
Biguenos from all over the country and even abroad return to Vigan, as it is the custom of Filipinos to
return to their hometown to join their family and friends
in the celebration of their fiesta. They are joined by thousands of visitors
from other parts of the Philippines and other countries in enjoying the
cultural shows, parades and street dancing prepared by the local government
with the help of the local industries and communities. There are also food
fairs, arts and crafts exhibits, as well as a visiting carnival.
Participants from the different neighboring provinces in the northern region are also sent to compete in the various games and activities, particularly the street dancing competition. This participation by other municipalities makes the Vigan City Fiesta not only a local event participated in by Vigan’s officials, but a national event participated in by other local public heads and national officials.
Within the Vigan City Fiesta days, the Longganisa Festival is also celebrated. The city has a
Participants from the different neighboring provinces in the northern region are also sent to compete in the various games and activities, particularly the street dancing competition. This participation by other municipalities makes the Vigan City Fiesta not only a local event participated in by Vigan’s officials, but a national event participated in by other local public heads and national officials.
Within the Vigan City Fiesta days, the Longganisa Festival is also celebrated. The city has a
longganisa-themed parade and at one time attempted to set a
record for having the longest longganisa ever made. The festival has become a
crowd-drawer as Vigan longganisa, a native version of Mexican salami, has a
distinct garlicky taste that has become a favorite of the Filipino palate.
Festival of the Arts
Viva Vigan Festival of the Arts
The Viva Vigan Festival of Arts is celebrated during the
first week of the month of May. It was started in 1993 by the Save Vigan
Ancestral Homes Association, Inc. (SVAHAI) to promote awareness of the value of
the historic town, which was hoped to strengthen resolve to preserve and
protect this heritage site.
For the past sixteen years, the festival of arts has been successful in drumming up attention for Vigan’s ancestral houses. With the help of national and local agencies, as well as media, arts and non-governmental supporters, the festival has also succeeded in promoting other aspects of Vigan. Its popularity has even benefited the whole tourism industry of the northern region, bringing in tens of thousands of local and foreign tourists curious to explore and have a “northern experience.”
Viva Vigan’s week-long festivities have both religious and secular importance. It starts on the 1st of May, when the whole country celebrates Labor Day and Vigan remembers its own Isabelo de los Reyes, who founded the country’s first federation of labor. The catholic faithful also remembers on this day St. Joseph, patron saint of workers.
The first-day commemoration is followed by the Binatbatan Festival celebrations, which includes a street dancing competition. Binatbatan dancing is connected to Vigan’s abel Iloco craft. The dance depicts how cotton pods are beaten with bamboo sticks to release the cotton fluff called batbat from its seed. This festival was started in 2002 to showcase this traditional weaving craft that is said to predate the arrival of the Spaniards.
On the 3rd of May, the Feast of Apo Sto. Cristo Milagroso is observed with a mass at the Simbaan a Basiit. This is a most significant religious celebration in Vigan due to the many instances that the city was said to be saved by the Apo.
Another significant festival within the Viva Vigan festival is the Karbo Festival, which was began in 2005. It’s aimed at giving importance to the people behind Vigan’s agricultural industry and their contribution. The name of the festival was taken from the words carabao, the Philippine water buffalo used for farming, and bokel or seeds. During this day, gaily painted carabaos are paraded and children show their artistic creations that make use of seeds.
Visitors are also encourage to squeeze into their six-day Viva Vigan experience the watching of the calesa parade, ramada or traditional games, comedia or stage drama, Santa Cruzan parade, abel fashion show and house decoration, singing contests and beauty pageants and other exciting events like the Amazing Heritage Race. They can also participate in religious rituals or visit exhibits, garden shows, as well as trade and food fairs.
For the past sixteen years, the festival of arts has been successful in drumming up attention for Vigan’s ancestral houses. With the help of national and local agencies, as well as media, arts and non-governmental supporters, the festival has also succeeded in promoting other aspects of Vigan. Its popularity has even benefited the whole tourism industry of the northern region, bringing in tens of thousands of local and foreign tourists curious to explore and have a “northern experience.”
Viva Vigan’s week-long festivities have both religious and secular importance. It starts on the 1st of May, when the whole country celebrates Labor Day and Vigan remembers its own Isabelo de los Reyes, who founded the country’s first federation of labor. The catholic faithful also remembers on this day St. Joseph, patron saint of workers.
The first-day commemoration is followed by the Binatbatan Festival celebrations, which includes a street dancing competition. Binatbatan dancing is connected to Vigan’s abel Iloco craft. The dance depicts how cotton pods are beaten with bamboo sticks to release the cotton fluff called batbat from its seed. This festival was started in 2002 to showcase this traditional weaving craft that is said to predate the arrival of the Spaniards.
On the 3rd of May, the Feast of Apo Sto. Cristo Milagroso is observed with a mass at the Simbaan a Basiit. This is a most significant religious celebration in Vigan due to the many instances that the city was said to be saved by the Apo.
Another significant festival within the Viva Vigan festival is the Karbo Festival, which was began in 2005. It’s aimed at giving importance to the people behind Vigan’s agricultural industry and their contribution. The name of the festival was taken from the words carabao, the Philippine water buffalo used for farming, and bokel or seeds. During this day, gaily painted carabaos are paraded and children show their artistic creations that make use of seeds.
Visitors are also encourage to squeeze into their six-day Viva Vigan experience the watching of the calesa parade, ramada or traditional games, comedia or stage drama, Santa Cruzan parade, abel fashion show and house decoration, singing contests and beauty pageants and other exciting events like the Amazing Heritage Race. They can also participate in religious rituals or visit exhibits, garden shows, as well as trade and food fairs.
empanada
Vigan Empanada
A visit to Vigan will not be complete without tasting its famous Vigan empanada. You can choose to sample this tasty delight in the food establishments that dot the city or the empanada stalls in the market and plazas. It is great whether as breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snacks. At around thirty-five pesos each, it’s quite cheap to have as many as you need to fill your hunger after touring the city.
The Vigan empanada is much in keeping with the Vigan people’s love for vegetables in their cuisine.
It is similar to a thin taco that is fried to a crisp, with
vegetable and meat filling. Rice flour is used for making the crust or the
shell. The galapong or rice flour dough is made a day before it is used.
Atchuete or orange food color, salt and oil are mixed into the rice though. The
dough mixture is then kneaded as thinly as possible on a banana leaf (wax paper
is a good substitute).
Vigan empanada’s vegetable filling is made up of green papaya that is grated, toge or mung bean sprouts, monggo or mung bean and shredded carrots. Its meat filing consist of whole egg and skinless Vigan longganisa. The double special Vigan empanada has two servings of the meat filling. For the health buff, Vigan empanada sans the longganisa is also available.
Vigan empanada’s vegetable filling is made up of green papaya that is grated, toge or mung bean sprouts, monggo or mung bean and shredded carrots. Its meat filing consist of whole egg and skinless Vigan longganisa. The double special Vigan empanada has two servings of the meat filling. For the health buff, Vigan empanada sans the longganisa is also available.
Longganisa
Vigan Longganisa
The Vigan longaganisa is a small and plump native sausage,
good for about two or three bites.
It is garlicky and has a yellowish color. Although it is
eaten anytime, even as a bread filling, it is
traditional favored as breakfast fare together with fried
eggs and steamed or fried rice. It is best dipped in Ilocos vinegar with plenty
of chili, garlic and onions.
Filipinos cook them in a pan with water. The longganisa cooks in its own fat after the water evaporates and is then cooked further until it slightly caramelizes. A tip to avoid crumbling is to place it in the freezer for a while before frying it.
Vigan longganisa is said to be an influence of the Mexican salami. The tradition of making this native has existed since the period of the Spanish galleon trade. It is distinct from other Philippine sausages because of its use of the local sugar cane vinegar and Vigan-grown garlic, which are major products of the city as well.
The Biguenos are so fiercely proud of their longganisa that they have made it as the product they would like to be most known for. They had it recognized as the city’s One Town, One Project (OTOP) selection under this national government program. They’ve endeavored throughout the years to be the top longganisa producer in the Philippines.
Filipinos cook them in a pan with water. The longganisa cooks in its own fat after the water evaporates and is then cooked further until it slightly caramelizes. A tip to avoid crumbling is to place it in the freezer for a while before frying it.
Vigan longganisa is said to be an influence of the Mexican salami. The tradition of making this native has existed since the period of the Spanish galleon trade. It is distinct from other Philippine sausages because of its use of the local sugar cane vinegar and Vigan-grown garlic, which are major products of the city as well.
The Biguenos are so fiercely proud of their longganisa that they have made it as the product they would like to be most known for. They had it recognized as the city’s One Town, One Project (OTOP) selection under this national government program. They’ve endeavored throughout the years to be the top longganisa producer in the Philippines.
Bagnet
Bagnet
Bagnet or is locally known as Chicharon (deep fried pork meat) is a sumptuous dish brought to us by the Ilocanos from the north. It is truly delicious and unique.
You
can call it Vigan Bagnet or Bagnet of Ilocos or Ilocano Bagnet, however you
may want to call it-just the thought of it makes every genuine Ilocano or
Filipino drool.
Abel Iloco
Abel Iloco
The abel is the traditional woven product of Vigan and the Ilocos region. The abel cloth is known for being a strong, colorful material. The fabric is so strong and beautiful that some families have them as heirlooms that last as long as their antique furnishings.
The abel is made from yarns of cotton or sagut that are sourced from the many lands in northern Luzon that are dedicated to the growing of this plant. After the cotton is harvested, it is prepared into yarns and dyed. The different colored yarns are then arranged in a wooden handloom to create varied and unique designs. The process is intricate and labor-intensive. Weavers must master synchronizing the movements of their hands and feet to properly use the wooden handloom.
The use of the handlooms and other weaving accessories can be traced from early Spanish occupation. This equipment was used in homes to weave abel cloth for blankets, pillow cases and clothes. These crafts were said to be a major export during the period of the Spanish galleon trade.
It is said that the abel was so popular a product that it
proved to be a big competition to the Spanish
weaving industry, threatening its very existence.
At present, only a few of the barangays in Vigan have maintained this age-old weaving industry.
At present, only a few of the barangays in Vigan have maintained this age-old weaving industry.
Barangays Camangaan, Mindoro and San Pedro are among these.
Barangay Mindoro is known for
producing binakol or blankets with geometric patterns.
Barangays Camangaan and San Pedro also have their own distinct designs.
However, it is Barangay Camangaan that is most known because it is the source
of most of the abel products that are sold by shops in Crisologo Street and the
Vigan Public Market, where local and foreign visitors buy their souvenirs.
Abel products are best as wedding gifts because they are very sturdy and beautifully-designed; but, most buyers need no excuse to buy them outside of their great craftsmanship, which can be enjoyed as bed and table linen. There are also wall decors, mosquito nets, towels, robes and clothing that are sold using the abel.
The design and colors of the abel are somewhat similar to those found in the Cordillera region, but it is continually evolving as present-day designers strive to update its use for the greater appreciation of the public. Local designers with the support of government mount fashion shows to show how the hand-made abel can be used with other fabrics to create clothes for everyday and special occasions.
Abel products are best as wedding gifts because they are very sturdy and beautifully-designed; but, most buyers need no excuse to buy them outside of their great craftsmanship, which can be enjoyed as bed and table linen. There are also wall decors, mosquito nets, towels, robes and clothing that are sold using the abel.
The design and colors of the abel are somewhat similar to those found in the Cordillera region, but it is continually evolving as present-day designers strive to update its use for the greater appreciation of the public. Local designers with the support of government mount fashion shows to show how the hand-made abel can be used with other fabrics to create clothes for everyday and special occasions.
Burnay
Burnay Jars - Burnay Pottery
Jars made from Vigan are much sought-after by foreign and local visitors. This earthenware is called burnay. The industry that has grown from the making of burnay dates back to pre-colonial times when immigrants from China came to settle in Vigan. They practiced the craft of making earthenware using the grade A clay that was found in plenty in the Western area of Vigan.
The making of burnay is done with just the use of the potter’s skillful hands and use of pottery wheel and kiln. Fine sand is used to temper the clay, which once fashioned into the desired shape is placed inside high-temperature ground kilns made from brick and clay. Compared to terracotta, people say that the burnay is hardier.
Its earlier use were for tea drinking, and as container for salt, brown sugar, water, local wine (basi) and bagoong (fermented fish). It is even said that basi and bagoong taste much better when stored inside burnays.
Nowadays, people buy them mostly to serve as decorations inside their homes and gardens. Miniature versions of the jars are also made in abundance because they have become a favorite souvenir item of foreign and local tourists.
Liking for the burnay has reached the markets abroad, especially in Europe. Local and foreign traders have made contacts with factory owners to order from their current offerings or for burnay products to be done according to new buyer or market specifications. Most of the local traders come from Manila and Bulacan. The biggest local trader of burnay is said to be the Bulacan Garden. Most of the foreign traders are from Great Britain and Belgium.
The continuous demand for the local earthern craft has sustained the livelihood of many Chinese and
Fil-Chinese generations who own burnay factories or
camarin, and the preservation of the craft.
The Pagburnayan or the place where these camarins can be
found is in the Baranggay VII, in the Southwest part of the city. There are
only about three burnay camarins now in existence all over the country, and
they are all in Vigan. Tour packages to Vigan are sure to include a visit to
Pagburnayan, as it is a must-see attraction.
One of the descendants of Chinese immigrants who introduced burnay-making in Vigan, Fidel Go has been awarded by the National Commission on Culture and Arts in 1990 as National Folk Artist. He is the owner of Ruby Pottery and until now continues to practice and sustain the craft of burnay-making.
One of the descendants of Chinese immigrants who introduced burnay-making in Vigan, Fidel Go has been awarded by the National Commission on Culture and Arts in 1990 as National Folk Artist. He is the owner of Ruby Pottery and until now continues to practice and sustain the craft of burnay-making.
Antique
Vigan Antique Makers
Vigan crafts, including woodcraft, might have eventually
disappeared if not for the huge demand that was generated by the patronage of
the Marcos family during former President Ferdinand Marcos’ regime.
During his long presidency, Ferdinand Marcos espoused cultural revival aimed at developing the Filipinos’ pride in their cultural heritage and history. Being from the North, he was exposed to the richness of Vigan culture.
President Marcos supported the adoption of the kind of Spanish-period architecture that was preserved in Vigan by the sheer fortune of being hardly touched by bombings during World War II. Government-funded buildings were mostly constructed in Vigan-style under his administration.
The interest in things from Vigan did not stop there. Then First Lady Imelda Marcos began collecting
During his long presidency, Ferdinand Marcos espoused cultural revival aimed at developing the Filipinos’ pride in their cultural heritage and history. Being from the North, he was exposed to the richness of Vigan culture.
President Marcos supported the adoption of the kind of Spanish-period architecture that was preserved in Vigan by the sheer fortune of being hardly touched by bombings during World War II. Government-funded buildings were mostly constructed in Vigan-style under his administration.
The interest in things from Vigan did not stop there. Then First Lady Imelda Marcos began collecting
antique furniture and religious statues which her retinue,
called the Blue Ladies, subsequently copied.
They were the hooked customers of antique dealers who sell
Vigan antiques. They wanted to have the
same things that the First Lady admired, and enjoy the
prestige of owning these rarities. Some even went as far as to claim the priced
pieces as being part of their family’s heritage, even though their being
nouveau riche is popular knowledge.
To meet the demand of the seemingly insatiable market, whose base also was getting broader, antique dealers not only bought from and persuaded owners of old estates to part with their family heirlooms. They also sought to secure religious relics from churches even by illicit means. Religious statues were stolen from churches or were bought off from priests. The Saint Paul Cathedral was not spared from theft, which resulted to the death of a policeman who responded to the call for help.
More and more antique dealers were being brought to court. So, some resorted to the making of fake antiques which they passed off as real. The trade in these items resulted in the invigoration of wood craft in Vigan, where replicas of antique religious statues, decors and furniture were made. They supplied antique stores in Manila and the needs of interior designers.
Nowadays, the reproductions produced by Vigan craftsmen are recognized for their skillful make and are no longer passed off as real antiques. Though no longer quite as frenzied, interest in Vigan crafts still continues and has succeeded in impressing upon the locals, pride and value in it. Biguenos reproduce them to continue and develop their rich heritage and craft.
Visitors to Vigan who would like to view the craftsmanship of real antiques and antique reproductions can visit the shops which specialize in them that are found along Calle Crisollogo and Plaridel Street. Both are within the UNESCO Heritage Village.
Bringing home an antique will surely be a one-of-a-kind buy.
To meet the demand of the seemingly insatiable market, whose base also was getting broader, antique dealers not only bought from and persuaded owners of old estates to part with their family heirlooms. They also sought to secure religious relics from churches even by illicit means. Religious statues were stolen from churches or were bought off from priests. The Saint Paul Cathedral was not spared from theft, which resulted to the death of a policeman who responded to the call for help.
More and more antique dealers were being brought to court. So, some resorted to the making of fake antiques which they passed off as real. The trade in these items resulted in the invigoration of wood craft in Vigan, where replicas of antique religious statues, decors and furniture were made. They supplied antique stores in Manila and the needs of interior designers.
Nowadays, the reproductions produced by Vigan craftsmen are recognized for their skillful make and are no longer passed off as real antiques. Though no longer quite as frenzied, interest in Vigan crafts still continues and has succeeded in impressing upon the locals, pride and value in it. Biguenos reproduce them to continue and develop their rich heritage and craft.
Visitors to Vigan who would like to view the craftsmanship of real antiques and antique reproductions can visit the shops which specialize in them that are found along Calle Crisollogo and Plaridel Street. Both are within the UNESCO Heritage Village.
Bringing home an antique will surely be a one-of-a-kind buy.
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