A visionary for Vigan’s progress

Vigan City is known for its charm, culture, and heritage. The city was proclaimed as a UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage Site not only for its historical attractions, but also for the concerted efforts of its community for its proud participation in its conservation efforts.

One of the major drivers of its local economy is tourism, where visitors are offered a glimpse of the Vigan’s storied past through its architecture, along with the efforts to promote and preserve its culture for the next generations.

Tourism towards economic growth

Vigan’s tourism industry was revitalized under the leadership of its Mayor, Jose “Bonito” Singson Jr., with initiatives such as the Ciudad de Vigan Pasaporte de Turista or Vigan Tourist Passport, launched on 28 April 2023 on Calle Crisologo in the city’s heritage core.

The innovative tourism project encouraged visitors to explore the city and learn more about its history and culture by providing information about its iconic landmarks. One component of the project is designed to support local businesses, as “passport holders” have the chance to earn points from visits to various retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and other partner tourism outlets. Each special stamp on the passport is equivalent to points which can be redeemed for exclusive discounts and freebies.

This project proved effective with more tourist arrivals. From 305,487 in 2022, the figures more than doubled in 2023, with 720,894 arrivals. By 2024, tourist arrivals reached 986,126, supporting the hospitality industry and other allied businesses.

He has also made strides in promoting Vigan City internationally, hosting Bob and Clint Moffat of the pop group The Moffats together with Filipino singer Bugoy Drilon when they visited Vigan to shoot a music video that highlighted its attractions for their YouTube channel Music Travel Love.

Under Mayor Singson’s stewardship, Vigan City was also ranked eighth in Asia’s Top 25 destinations for 2025 by Travel Leisure Asia.

Sincere public service

Infrastructure development was another priority of the local government. To support the growth of the local economy and improve quality of life among Bigueños, Singson approved the improvement of farm-to-market roads. He likewise oversaw the rehabilitation of a seawall in the barangay of Mindoro, as well as a flood control project along the Mestizo River, both affected by a magnitude-7 earthquake in 2022.

In line with his strong commitment towards people empowerment, Mayor Singson donated P2 million to the Bigueño Senior Citizens through the Timpuyog ti Natataengan iti Ciudad Vigan, Inc. on 13 February 2025. The said donation was from the accumulated salary of Mayor Singson as the local chief executive of the city, to be utilized as funding for their various programs and projects, particularly on livelihood programs among its members. The remaining P3.2 million will be given as a rice subsidy to every senior citizen of the city.

The mayor personally handed the cheque to the SC’s Federated president Mario Tongson, with City Social Welfare and Development Officer Maria Celerina Agcamaran, Barangay Chapter presidents, and Mia Aguila-Singson in attendance.

His innovative projects and generosity illustrate Mayor Singson’s unwavering commitment to uplifting the lives of Biguenos, as a public servant who serves with integrity and empathy.