Crisologo Museum

The Crisologo Museum is found on Liberation Boulevard and Reyes Street. It houses the memorabilia and other prized possessions of the late Congressman Floro S. Crisologo, the uncle of Mr. Chavit Singson who owns the famous Baluarte in Ilocus Sur. The late Floro S. Crisologo was shot in the head while he was attending the 4: o'clock mass inside the St. Augustine Church on October 18, 1970. His murder is still unsolved to this day. His wife who was then the Governor at that time has decided that they will not seek revenge. Instead, to honor his memory, they turned their home into a museum to so that the crime will not be forgotten. In the center of the library which is located on the ground floor of the museum, a glass box containing the bloodied clothes that the late governor was wearing are on display. The late Floro S. Crisologo was known as the man who was responsible for making landmark legislation that benefited his countrymen up to this day such as the laws behind the creation of the first University in Northern Philippines and the establishment of the Social Security System.  

In the 1970's , there was political turmoil in the whole country. Shootings and political intimidation were rampant at that time. People who were fed up with the government joined the NPA and there was dissatisfaction and unrest among the people who felt oppressed by the rich people. One co-worker who is from Ilocos told me at one time that people from their place are passionate about their political candidates. The people defend their "pet" candidates against the rival candidates and their supporters to the extent of severing ties with old time friends and even close family members who dare to go against them. They will not hesitate to kill people like they kill chickens for no apparent reason. People get killed everyday and there was fear in the hearts of the community. It was a time of political dynasties and warlordism with goons and guns that made the place a dangerous place to live at that time. Living there then was like living in "The wild-wild west". However, that was all in the past now. This time, the place is a peaceful and pleasant place to visit. Since the place has been declared under UNESCO as a Heritage City, it is now a booming tourist destination with its rich history dating back to the Spanish era.