Singsons’ unrivaled power in Ilocos Sur

The Singson clan’s rise to power was built over centuries of carefully planned moves that entrenched the family in politics. From the Spanish colonial period, where the family marks its origins, until today, the Singsons have controlled the province of Ilocos Sur. They trace their beginnings to the marriage of a Chinese merchant, Joaquin Ayco, and a local from Vigan named Rosa Songnio. It was during the 19th century that the family began its ascent to power through wealth. They held gobernadorcillo positions for five terms and their influence continued over the American and Japanese occupations. In 1945, the region…