Vigan eyed as cruise destination

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines – The heritage city of Vigan, which is bidding for inclusion in New7Wonders Cities of the World, is being eyed as one of the world’s cruising destinations.

Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia, in a recent visit to Vigan, said that at least three major cruise companies – Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian – expressed interest in making the city one of their destinations.

These companies, he said, have been inspired by Vigan’s well-preserved Spanish era structures and industries, making it a place of interest to visit for tourists from all over the world.

The capital of Ilocos Sur, Vigan was adjudged world’s number one in “Heritage Conservation and Management” during the World Heritage Convention held in Kyoto, Japan in November 2012.

Vigan Mayor Eva Marie Medina said that more and more local and foreign tourists have been visiting the city since its inclusion in the remaining 14 cities vying for the prestigious New7Wonders Cities.

The top seven cities will be announced on Dec. 7. They will be chosen according to number of votes earned through texting or online voting.

Medina called on Filipinos all over the world to vote for the city’s inclusion to the New7Wonders Cities by texting VIGAN to 29290777 or voting on the website www.new7wonders.com.

Formerly named Ciudad Fernandina during the Spanish colonial period, Vigan is famous for its well preserved centuries-old structures and has been recognized as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.

With its narrow cobblestone streets and old houses, Vigan is home to Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Northern Luzon’s center of Catholic devotion for centuries. The church’s construction began in 1574 and was only completed during the 1800s. – Charlie Lagasca