Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) expressed happiness on Wednesday over the inclusion of the Filipino city of Vigan among 21 finalists for the seven-wonders-of-the-world cities competition.

“Vigan is unique. It showcases the Philippines during the Spanish period of the 16th century,” said Arman Cruz Mariano, president of the Beta Sigma Fraternity in Riyadh.

Voting is conducted online and Vigan’s inclusion in the 21 finalists is attributed to OFWs in various countries all over the world.

“I hope that compatriots all over the world will vote online so that Vigan could advance to the next round,” he said.

“When in Vigan, you feel that you’re in another time which evokes nostalgia toward the distant past,” Resurreccion O. Ramos, a doctor at the Dammam Medical Complex.

She added that Vigan, a major tourist destination in the country, showcases the Philippines rich history and heritage.

“When I go home to my province, I always pass by Vigan and bask in the exotic beauty of the place. You feel like you’re in a time warp, and it is this quality that attracts local and foreign tourists,” said Ramos, who comes from Ilocos Norte, an adjoining province of Ilocos Sur, where Vigan is located.

She urged all overseas Filipino to vote for Vigan.

In Buraidah, Qassim, Arnold G. Pineda, also a community leader, added that to vote for Vigan to win in the contest is “one way of giving back to our nation.”

“Besides, Vigan deserves to be among the final winners. Being there makes you travel back in time and see in the mind’s eye the milieu of our forefathers,” said Pineda, who works for the Saudi Pharmaceutical Industries and Medical Appliances Corp. (SPIMACO).

For one vote, text VIGAN and send to 29290777 on all OFW SIM/Philippine cards.

For 10 votes, text VIGAN 10 and sent to 29290777 on all OFW SIM/Philippine SIM cards.

For overseas voting, dial any of the following international numbers and press 21 to vote Vigan, Philippines: +881821611990, +447589975201, +8821622776600,+447559121023, +88216101688,+8821622774600, +34902735471 and +447559583500.