Pagburnayan, Vigan Ilocos, Sur

 

Historically, it is believed that pottery in Vigan was introduced by Chinese traders during the 14th century.  Jar factories in Vigan have been established in this barangay for a long time (please refer to the attached map below).  This barangay was known as "Pagbantayan" (the old name) and is now named Pagburnayan, which means jar factories. " Burnay " is an Ilocano word for jars.

There are two Jar Factories in Pagburnayan: Ruby and RG Jar Factory. These factories are situated in this area because the soil here contains clay deposits necessary for pottery making. 

    

 My Pakner4lf is from San Juan, Batangas.  Their neighboring barangay is also known for pottery.  Some potters there are pakner4lyf's distant relatives.  I have never seen how these pots are made, and visiting Pagburnayan is an opportunity to witness a live demonstration. While still in the car, we discuss whose clay pot is better and more durable: the ones from Vigan or those jars from San Juan, Batangas?  We mentioned our query to the potter, Mr. Bong-Bong Go.  He said that their soil, compared to San Juan, is different.  They produce black-colored clay, while San Juan, Batangas has reddish-orange soil used for pottery.  He claims that the soil type in Vigan makes sturdier and more durable jars that will last for years.  He added that the orange-colored soil is softer, causing the pots to crack easily.   He demonstrated how hard their pots were by slamming a sample pot against a metal bar a few times. The little pot didn't break or show cracks or scratches.   

The photo above is the painting hanging on the wall of our hotel room.  Just approaching the room, my son JC kept pointing his finger at that painting, but I was not paying my full attention until I understood what he meant to say.  He recognized the painting that portrays how jars are made, relating it to our visit to the Pagburnayan Jar Factory earlier. 

There are also souvenir shops and stalls here, in addition to selling clay products. Indeed, tourism in Vigan does a great job of providing livelihood, improving business, and giving additional income to its constituents. This made me wish we could have the same system in my Province.