Ramon Zaragoza creates the world that he wants
September 18, 2002 | 12:00am
He started the restoration of old houses in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. By converting an abandoned 18th-century mansion into his palatial "Villa Paz" home, architect Ramon Zaragoza inspired his neighbors to bring back the splendor of their ancestral homes. Today, Vigan is famous for its elegant historical houses, thanks in large part to Ramon’s restoration mission which he describes as "a virus that I want to share."
Villa Paz, a.k.a. Museo Zaragoza, depicts the grandeur of life in an Ilocano home. With a chapel, a grand ballroom and its 20-ft. ceilings, this colonial house is one of Ramon’s contribution to the preservation of Philippine culture.
Ramon Zaragoza, 57, has written eight books including Old Manila, published by Oxford University Press. In his bid to "bring back the culture, lost architecture and history of our country," our bachelor explored more than 2,100 Philippine islands, roughing it out in the jungles for his research.
On what occasion do you lie?
When I say, "this is such a great world to live in."
What is your thrill?
My adventurous trips into the jungles.
What is your most fervent wish?
Good health.
How do you resolve your conflicts?
I know what I want. I know what to do to get it. If it doesn’t materialize, then, sorry. You can’t win them all.
What film influenced your life?
I love classical movies with a lot of historical backgrounds and settings like The Last Emperor, Anna and the King and Gladiator.
Which hero of fiction can you most identify with?
Harrison Ford’s Indiana Jones. My travels around the Philippines, going by boat, riding on tricycles or planes – are an experience.
What is your greatest fear?
Pain.
What is the trait you most deplore in others?
When they take advantage of you.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Villa Paz, my house in Vigan. It’s a folly come true. Palatial-like, it's a playhouse with a ballroom.
Which historical character would you like to have been?
Since I write history books, I realize that heroes have turbulent lives with violent deaths. They go out of their way and get killed in their mission. I admire people with simple lives who accomplish much.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Bringing back the culture and history of our country.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
No problems.
Which famous quotation would you have wanted to be the author of?
"You create the world that you want." If you want to be happy or miserable, it is up to you.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
War is sheer misery.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
Determination.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
Affection. How she understands her man.
Name a moment that brings back happy memories.
Every time I accomplish something that helps many people.
What is your greatest regret?
As I get older, I am starting to slow down. I wish I could accomplish more.
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