MANILA, Philippines - The historic Vigan City in Ilocos Sur has made it to the semifinal round of the search for the New Seven Wonder Cities of the World, joining 13 other cities from all over the globe to vie for the final seven to be announced on Dec. 7.
Vigan City is the only nominee from the Philippines.
Based on the list presented by New7Wonders founder and president Bernard Weber, also included in the top 14 are the cities of Barcelona in Spain, Beirut in Lebanon, Chicago in the United States, Doha in Qatar, Durban in South Africa, Havana in Cuba, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, La Paz in Bolivia, London in the United Kingdom, Mexico City in Mexico, Perth in Australia, Quito in Ecuador and Reykjavik in Iceland.
Known as Ciudad Fernandina during the Spanish colonial period, Vigan City is famous for its well-preserved centuries-old structures. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has recognized Vigan as a World Heritage Site.
Vigan City Mayor Eva Marie Singson-Medina said she is very grateful for the inclusion of Vigan in the top 14 cities, but appealed for more support in the final leg of the prestigious search. She has called on Filipinos to vote for Vigan.
“In solidarity, we have reached the last phase before we write another milestone in Vigan and our country’s history. Having come this far, the unprecedented votes from local and international communities affirm that Vigan is truly a wonder city,” Medina said in a statement sent to The STAR yesterday.
“I therefore appeal for your unequivocal support in the final leg of the search as we are up against formidable mega cities. Let us give a reason for Filipinos to smile and be proud by voting Vigan as one of the New Seven Wonder Cities of the World come December 7,” she said.
Medina said the local government of Vigan City has expanded its campaign in Philippine embassies all over the world for the city to make it into the final seven.
To vote for Vigan, log in at www.new7wonders.com/en/cities and select the City of Vigan, or text VIGAN to 29290777.
Earlier, Malacañang directed various government agencies including the departments of the interior and local government, tourism, foreign affairs and transportation and communications; the National Historical Commission and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority to support Vigan’s bid.
Vigan’s inclusion, the Palace said, will not only further boost the city’s economy and tourism industry but the entire country as well.