Written by Augusto Villalon and read at Marjo Gassers Memorial Service in Vigan on 30 January: Marjo, Heritage Heroine Marjo’s inspiring but difficult story is all about her vision for Vigan. She did everything possible to realize that vision despite difficult obstacles put on her path. Her perseverance is a lesson to us all. Her vision that Vigan’s future lies in its past is one that all of us shared, but she worked hardest at it. She was a strong advocate. She convinced fellow Bigueños about honoring their heritage. She brought the Vigan message to national and international seminars that she participated in. She was passionate about Vigan. Marjo developed an extensive global network of colleagues. Over the years they became her advisers and dear friends. She laid the groundwork well, working tirelessly in documenting Vigan houses with the Toyota Foundation, doing research for the UNESCO World Heritage nomination, organizing the team to write the Vigan Heritage Homeowners Preservation Manual, and so much more. Without her groundwork, Vigan would have never become the international success that it is today, especially being the only city in the world to be awarded “Most Sustainable World Heritage City” by UNESCO. Despite all of her success, Marjo preferred to remain quietly in the background and let other people take credit for all accomplishments. We who love Marjo dearly are aware that her fierce belief in Vigan heritage was sadly misunderstood and unappreciated by many in her city, and for this she suffered difficulties. But with admirable dignity, she managed to go on with life. It has been almost 30 years since that meeting at the Manila Yacht Club that started all of us on our shared journey for Vigan. Marjo was so instrumental in that journey, and we thank her for her support and leadership. Most of all, I thank Marjo for her friendship. I shall always remember the good times that we enjoyed together. The most important realization that Marjo’s tragedy has brought to me is that we should give honor and thanks to visionaries like her while they are alive and not at necrological events like this. Vigan was once saved from destruction from Japanese hands during World War II by a local heroine. In more recent times, Marjo saved Vigan from further destruction. She is Vigan’s modern-day Heritage Heroine. Manang Marjo, you deserve recognition and gratitude from the entire Philippine nation for what you have done to save Vigan. You are an inspiration to all. You are our country’s first Heritage Heroine. I wish I could have told her that myself in her house while having one of those great Ilocano dinners that she cooks instead of during this sad occasion. Godspeed, Marjo. Thank you for touching Vigan’s and my life.
Posted on: Tue, 30 Dec 2014 11:24:32 +0000
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