The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Vigan concluded the week-long celebration of Legislative Awareness Week 2025 with a culminating program held on October 3, 2025, at the Vigan Culture and Trade Center.

The event was graced by City Mayor Randy Singson and City Vice Mayor Atty. Glendale Benzon and the members of the 9th City Council, together with various guests such as Ilocos Sur Senior Board Member Janina Carine Medina-Fariñas, representatives from Non-Government Organizations (NGOs), and the newly elected Local People’s Council officers led by its newly elected President, the former city mayor and Balikatan sa Vigan President Eva Marie S. Medina.

During the program, a total of 42 NGOs received their Certificates of Accreditation, strengthening their partnership with the City Government in the implementation of local programs and policies. The 8th City Council, through its then members Hon. Janina Carine Medina-Farinas, Hon. Alistin Arce, and Hon. Mary Ann Ataup was also awarded during the event as the city maintained its distinction as highly compliant during the SIGLAT Gobierno Lokal Awards of the Provincial Government of Ilocos Sur.

Moreover, SP Secretary Mr. Jayson Avila also presented the results of the Legislative Agenda to the CSOs, paving the way for a meaningful discussion on the city’s legislative direction and its alignment with the realization of Vigan’s Vision and Mission.

One of the event’s highlights was the Oath-Taking Ceremony of the newly elected LPC officers, officiated by City Mayor Randy Singson. Elected officers include:

•            Former Mayor Eva Marie S. Medina, President – Balikatan sa Vigan Inc.

•            Ocarna Figuerres, Vice President – Vigan Accommodation Entrepreneurs Association

•            Celestina Chan, Secretary – Metro Vigan Zumba Dancers Alliance, Inc.

•            Benjie Buen, Treasurer – Rotary Club of Vigan

•            Susan Ancheta, Auditor – Retired City Employees of Vigan Association, Inc.

•            Jay Leonard Roldan, Public Relations Officer – Maris ti Ayat, Inc.

•            Ar. Christian Nico Pilotin, Business Manager—United Architects of the Philippines Ciudad Fernandina Chapter

•            Joseph Lu, Sergeant-at-Arms – PRAISE Vigan Chapter

In her message, LPC President Eva Marie S. Medina emphasized the vital role of the council in strengthening participatory governance, highlighting the importance of transparency, accountability, and collaboration between the city government and civil society organizations. She also encouraged more groups to seek accreditation to ensure that citizens’ voices continue to shape policies and programs.

City Vice Mayor Atty. Glendale Benzon, in her message, expressed gratitude for the growing number of accredited organizations, underscoring that their involvement signifies an active and empowered citizenry.

She extended her appreciation to the newly elected LPC President Eva Marie S. Medina, recognizing her genuine intention to work hand in hand with the city government for the benefit and welfare of the people, and also assured that the legislative agenda of the Sangguniang Panlungsod reflects the real needs, sentiments, and aspirations of the Bigueños, made possible through strengthened collaboration with the LPC and other stakeholders.

Meanwhile, SPM Ramil Arce, Chairperson on the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, highlighted the essential role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in promoting good governance and ensuring that government actions remain transparent and people-centered.