MIRA

        Lying just few meters below north of the bell tower and Bantay parish, the Barangay is one of the most popular places in Bantay dating back in the colonial era.  With only 184 registered voters, it ranked 3^rd least in voting population (next to Brgy. Sagneb, at page 64 and San Mariano, at page 68).

        Originally, the place was called ‘panpantok’ because of its steep landscape and a favourite site for hill-walking and hiking by those residents from the Poblacion. It was made by the Spanish authority as the stronghold of its armed frontier because of the hilly terrain where they could overlook the northern approach of Ciudad Fernandina.  In all matters affecting the safety of Vigan, then the seat and bastion of Spanish rule, this Barangay played an essential role in the maintenance of peace and its security because it is in here where Spanish soldiers encamped, as they could gain strategic access and advantage against invading enemy forces. Relatively, old folks say, this is the very reason why even the Bantay belfry was constructed (Calvario hill) far apart from the church, to serve as a porch or watch out to ensure that Vigan is protected against outside aggression. Hence, the place was commonly referred to the cognomen ‘mira’ , which means in the vernacular- overlooking.

        The residents are into farming, herding and raising of swine animals. Many have worked abroad looking for better opportunities. In here lies, the first private cemetery/memorial park of the town, adjoining the catholic public cemetery.

        The barangay was created pursuant to RA No. 1408 (at page 7, supra) that provides for the first barrio elections held on January 19, 1956.