The City Government of Vigan commemorates the week-long festivities of the UNESCO Solidarity and Cultural festival from September 4 to 8, 2014. The event had been observed since the inscription of Vigan in the List of World Heritage Sites on December 2, 1999 to strengthen Vigan’s history and culture including the preservation of centuries old heritage structures.
The festival was formally opened by the city officials led by Mayor Eva Medina in a ribbon cutting ceremony of the Vigan Trade and Food Fair. Director Martin Valera of DOT Region I was also present during the event. On the same day, fotografias y Recuerdos, a photography contest for both amateur and professional local photographers) and Historia Oral, a historical literary writing contest with Vigan’s tales and stories narrated by an elderly in the person of Agatuna Cachero as their reference were held. These activities gives opportunity for residents to learn about Vigan’s history, culture and day-to-day life.
A “Zarzuela Ilocana” “Daniw” and “Dallot”, “Sabayang Pagbigkas”, and Puppetry competition ‘was also staged.
Other events included folkdance competition, Latin and standard dance sports “Repazzo de Vigan” (History on Parade) an interactive street parade showcasing the colorful periods of Vigan’s history, ‘Kinnantaran, vocal solo, vocal duet and vocal chorus. Other highlights of the event are the mass induction of Day Care Students, Parents Guild and Federated Day Care Workers Association.
And on September 8, a Eucharistic Celebration and renewal of Pledge to Heritage Conservation at the St. Paul Cathedral officiated by Rev. Fr. Vicente Avila, Rev. Fr. Emerito Venida and Rev. Amores followed by a solidarity breakfast at Plaza Burgos.