PROFILE OF LUIS CHAVIT C. SINGSON
Governor, Province of Ilocos Sur

He is popularly known by Ilocos Sur people as Father of R.A. 7171 when he authored the Tobacco Excise Tax Law which brought billions of pesos to all tobacco-producing provinces from its mandated 15% share in the excise taxes of Virginia tobacco products. The R.A. 7171 fund releases are pro-rated on the basis of the volume of production per province. The passage of the Tobacco Law is considered as his most notable achievement which benefited the tobacco farmers and Ilocos Sur to a great extent, hence his monicker, Father of R.A. 7171.

In the national scene, GOVERNOR LUIS “CHAVIT” SINGSON is popularly known as Hero of EDSA II after a national uprising where he courageously fought against his friend and ally when he publicly accused then President Joseph Ejercito Estrada “as the Lord of all Jueteng Lords.” From then on, fate has not been so good to the then President who was ousted from Malacañang and paved the way for Her Excellency President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to take over.

Governor Singson entered into the political arena thirty (30) years back when he steadfastly swayed the supporters of the Crisologos into joining his multitude of political followers. The late Congressman Floro Crisologo was the brother of Governor Singson’s mother, Caridad.

The people regard him as their living hero – “BANNUAR TI ILOKANDIA”. When he ascended into government service, he bravely herded the goons or “saka-saka” and private armies into the folds of law. He was also responsible in dismantling the tobacco blockade which allowed the farmers free trade of their tobacco produce.

In 2002, the movie “CHAVIT”, a political saga chronicling his personal exploits, his numerous brushes with death, his several passion and conquests and the strifes and challenges he single-handedly hurdled, was filmed and shown.

With his political comeback as Governor of the province after a three year respite, he started putting into action his cherished dreams and visions for Ilocos Sur – that is to make the province’s economy to grow and soar high, through its full industrialization, agriculture and livelihood opportunities and tourism industry development as his priorities geared towards attaining economic advancement to reduce poverty. The operation of Salomague Seaport, a ready access for overseas shipment of products and its accessibility to China and Taiwan are the positive indicators to support his development programs.