"...the sites, which have been Ilocandia's best kept secrets, are endless..."
- Congressman Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Ilocos Norte
Ilocos Norte has for too long been over shadowed by more traditionally popular destinations in the Philippines such as Boracay and Cebu. However now it is rapidly becoming the new tourist destination of choice. Featuring world class white sand beaches, gorgeous century old churches, and an exotic assortment of traditional handicrafts and cuisine, Ilocos Norte will surely have something to offer everyone.
Let us take you on a short virtual trip to the many wonders of Ilocos Norte. Please click on the links below to view a short article on these places of interest:
- Provincial Capitol
- St. William's Cathedral
- Sinking Bell Tower
- Museo Iloco
- Tobacco Monopoly Monument
- La Paz Sand Dunes
- Malacanang of the North
- Paoay Lake
- Paoay Golf Golf Course
- Suba Beach Sand Dunes
- Paoay Church - UNESCO World Heritage Site
Laoag City - The Sunshine City
Laoag City was named after the Ilocano word for “the place of light or clarity”. It is an old, flourishing settlement which was known to Chinese and Japanese traders even before when Spaniards arrived at the northern banks of Padsan River in 1572. The Roman Catholic Church was established in the area by the Augustinian missionaries in 1580 and St. William, the Hermit was designated as its patron saint.
Laoag City, today is the major crossroads for international trade and commerce in the Ilocos region. Though bustling with business, the city has retained pretty much an unhurried, laid-back lifestyle.
Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol
Ilocos Norte was established as a province in 1818. Laoag City being the most progressive town became the capital. The building on the left is the provincial capitol, it is the seat of the Provincial Government. It was constructed using Neo-Classical architecture.
St. William's Cathedral
St. William's Cathedral is a church in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. It was built in 1612 by Augustinian friars to replace a wooden chapel. It is known for its Italian Renaissance design and its Sinking Bell Tower.
The cathedral was built to support a growing Christian population in Laoag, which was known as Ylaua at the time. The settlement was a mission detachment of Vigan during the Spanish era. The church was originally built using lime mixed with molasses for strength, with big stones, gravel and sand. Wood was used for trusses to support the roof, which originally was made of cogon grass and was later replaced with nipa. Much later the roofing was again changed to corrugated galvanised iron sheet.
The Sinking Bell Tower
One of the largest and the tallest bell towers in the country, the Laoag City Sinking Bell Tower stands mightily at 45 meters high. The tower was constructed upon the orders of the Agustinian friars hundreds of years ago. Just like the bell tower of Jaro, Iloilo, the Laoag Bell Sinking Bell tower is some distance from the church. It is located approximately 85 meters away from the St. William’s Cathedral.
It is believed that during the early years, one can easily pass through the belfry’s doors. However, due to the fact that the tower is sinking (approximately 1 inch every year), these days one needs to stoop just to get inside the tower.
Museo Ilocos Norte
This impressive lifestyle museum showcases the cultural heritage of the Ilocanos and the different ethnic tribes of Ilocos Norte - including the Yapayaos, Isnegs, Igorots. Museo Ilocos Norteis set in the old Tabacalera Warehouse in Laoag City, which was used as the administrative center of the tobacco monopoly during the Spanish era.
Within the museum you will find various archaelogical relics and artifacts from the province's 22 towns and one city - including traditional clothing, utensils, farm implements and varying woven baskets. One of the museum's special feature, is the ancestral Ilocano house that was fitted into the warehouse. Walking through this house like taking a step back through time.
The Tobacco Monopoly Monument
When the Spaniards discovered that the land and climate of Ilocos was perfect for the growing of tobacco, they forced the people to plant only tobacco and no other crop. From 1781 until 1881, one hundred years the tobacco monopoly existed in Ilocos. A period of dark history in Ilocandia marked by untold abuses by the authorities and numerous resistance among the locals.
In 1881 when King Alfonso XII finally lifted the tobacco monopoly. The people of Ilocos then erected the Tobacco Monopoly Monument as a thanksgiving to the Crown of Spain for recognizing the stuggles of the Ilocano people against the Monopoly.
The La Paz Sand Dunes
La Paz has been known as the Desert of the North. It covers an area of 85 square kilometers and is declared and protected as a geological monument because of its unique land formation. La Paz is a favorite shooting location for local as well as international films.
Adams
Amidst the hidden beauty of this place and its rich cultures and traditions there are still unexplored treasures of nature in the heart of the forests of Adams. No matter how far and hard the trail going to Mt. Pao, Mt. Palemlem, Mt. Burburan and Mt. Kudinasan, the trek will be worthwhile enough as there are fascinating plant life, such as rare orchids and ferns along the way, tall and bountiful trees, the cold air filled with the hum of birds.
You can also find the fresh water falls of Anuplig Falls, Aki Falls, Kanayupan Falls, Pao Falls, Mareprep Falls and Sisilungan Falls which are all present in the mountains of Adams. Also, near Anuplig Falls is a cave, yet still unexplored but surely has a potential as a prime tourist spot.
The many natural wonders to be found at Adams has prompted the local government to establish this municipality as a tourist destination and has begun programs with a focus on eco-tourism.
Bacarra
Bacarra is the third oldest town of Ilocos Norte. It was founded by Agustinian friars in 1572. The town is believed to be named after a big basket used to keep rice. This basket is called bacar. Bacarra today looks basically the same way as it did during the Spanish era. Its layout still follows the original Spanish system, and most of its colonial buildings are still present.
Of the old buildings, most impressive is the Bacarra Church complex and its famous bell tower. This bell tower has a strange name among the locals. It is called the 'acrobatic bell tower' of Bacarra. A series of earthquakes has reduced the size of the acrobatic bell tower. The current tower now stands without its topmost level, which collapsed during the violent earthquake of 1983.
Bangui
Rivaling the beauty of the view from Burgos Lighthouse is the view of Bangui Valley from the Bangui viewdeck. The valley is carpeted with lush farms and plantations. In the afternoon flocks of cranes fly above the valley and look like clouds flitting from one farm to the next.
Northwind Project - The Bangui Windmills
The Northwind Project in Bangui is the first windfarm project in South East Asia. Towering 70 meters tall, these majestic wind powered turbines have attracted many visitors both local and foreign.
Abang Falls
Abang Falls is located along the mountain sides that frame Barangay Lanao. Its veil-like waters cascade down in poetic fashion over boulders and stones. The pool on its second tier is ensconced by a deep mountain gorge that shelters a variety of air plants.
Burgos
In the Picturesque northwestern tip of Northern Luzon overlooking the China Sea on the north and west lies the town of Burgos. Burgos lies between the town of Bangui and Pasuquin. Burgos was first known as Nagparitan because a group of wild and fierce people who were extra ordinary tall, called Mamburi, prohibited the Christians, especially the Malayans, to settle and build their homes. The name was later changed to Burgos by Legislative Act in honor of Father Jose Burgos, one of the three martyrs, Gomez, Burgos and Zamora. It features many sites including Tanap Rapids and the Caangian Falls.
Cape Bojeador Lighthouse
Motorists driving north through the province of Ilocos Norte can catch sight of the lighthouse which dominates the Burgos skyline. From its top, one can easily take in the sweeping panorama of the sea and the surrounding countryside.
The over a century-old Burgos Lighthouse (known locally as the Cape Bojeador Lighthouse) remains a mute beacon to seafarers. It is also a source of provincial pride after the National Museum declared it a national cultural treasure in December 2005.
Capurpuroan Rock
Capurpuraoan is a rugged coastal area in Burgos. Capurpuraoan Rocks which means “White Rocks” were naturally carved by time. The massive mounds of rocks are made of corals that jut into the sea. The sight of the massive rock-mountain could be mistaken for a scene from a sci-fi movie.
Pagudpud
Pagudpud is a coastal resort town on the northernmost tip of Luzon. Its white-sand beaches and crystal-blue water makes Pagudpud a haven for tourists. Chief among these beaches are the Saud Beach and the Maira-Ira Cove.
Saud Beach
Saud Beach is located in Barangay Saud, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. It is also known for the richness of its local history and natural resources. In 2007, it topped the list of the best beaches in Asia according to John Borthwick of Australia’s biggest selling daily newspaper, Herald Sun.
Marira Ira Cove
Marira Ira Coveis an unspoiled, white-sand cove that has yet to become popular with the mainstream beach-combing crowd. The beach is known simply as Maira-ira or Blue Lagoon. On calm days, when the notorious Ilocos surf is taking a break, the waters off the cove can be still as a pond, mirroring the azure sky to form a stunning blue loch.
Dos Hermanos Islands
Dos Hermanos Islands emerge statuesquely at the northern part of the Blue Lagoon. These rocks look like ordinary rocks from a distance, but if you get closer you would be able to see their distinctiveness. Below the rocks are caves where varied and colorful tropical fishes swim abundantly that can be seen during low tides.
The Patapat Viaduct
Patapat Viaduct is an elevated concrete highway constructed along winding/rocky headlands in Ilocos Norte. Situated on the rocky seashore just several meters from the mountain side it gives motorists a spectacular view of Pasaleng Bay. As you drive along it you pass the Mabugabog Falls that serves as a source of power for the mini hydroelectric plant. It is only during the rainy days when it shows its splendor with its water dropping rhythmically to the rocky shore of the sea below.
Pasuquin
Pasuquin, a town famous for its salt and biscocho products, it is 7 kilometers north of Laoag City. It is a 25-kilometer-long town that lies on the coast of the South China Sea. It is bounded on the north by Burgos, on the east by the mountain ranges of Vintar, on the south by Bacarra, and on the west by the South China Sea.
Salt Making in Pasuquin
Pasuquin is famous for it's salt factories and roadside stalls along the country road that sell the fine sea salt in large plastic bags. Salt-making is a traditional livelihood in these parts, passed down from generation to generation.
Badoc
Badoc is the first town in Ilocos Norte when you enter the province from the south. Badoc was established as a pueblo (town) in 1714 by the Augustinian friars.
Badoc Island
Badoc Island situated about 2 kilometers seaward from the coastline, was said to be the favorite haven or hangout of fierce and hostile Moro and Zambal maruaders. Those who want to commune with nature may choose to go camping on Badoc Island. The water between the island and mainland Badoc is crystal clear and provides breathtaking views of coral reef and marine life. It has also become a popular destination among the surfing set ofr its high waves.
Badoc Church - St. John the Baptist Parish
The Badoc Church was named after its patron saint John the Baptist. The Badoc church is also home to the miraculous image of the Virgin Mary (La Virgen Milagrosa de Badoc) with the infant Jesus wrapped in her arms.
The Juan Luna Shrine
The Juan Luna Shrine is the ancestral home of Juan Luna (1857-1899), a world-renowned painter. The restored house has been converted into a museum that showcases various memorabilia and works of Luna, including a reproduction of,his masterpiece, the Spolarium, which won the gold medal in the 1884 Exposicion General de Bellas Artes in Madrid.
Luna's works not only earned international recognition and awards, but more importantly served as a catalyst for Philippine nationalism during the Spanish era.
Batac
The City of Batac as its name denotes is a city where cooperation and unity is a way of life. It is considered a rapidly growing center of trade, finance, health, researches and education. It is also known as the home of eminent men and women who have significant contribution in the development and welfare of our country and fellowmen. There are several sites which honor famous Philippines leaders of the past.
The Ricarte National Shrine
Artemio Ricarte y Garcia (October 20, 1866 — July 31, 1945) was a Filipino general during the Philippine Revolution and the Philippine-American War. He is considered by the Armed Forces of the Philippines as the "Father of the Philippine Army". Ricarte is also notable for never having taken an oath of allegiance to the United States government, which occupied the Philippines from 1898 to 1946. The birth house of Artemio Ricarte is now the Ricarte National Shrine in Batac, Ilocos Norte, Philippines.
Aglipay Shrine
Gregorio Aglipay was a former Catholic priest who, due to his support for the Philippine Revolution, was excommunicated and later on founded the Philippine Independent Church aka the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI). His remains lie in state at a large mausoleum called the Aglipay Shrine in downtown Batac City.
The Marcos Museum and Mausoleum
The Marcos Museum and Mausoleum in Batac, Ilocos Norte showcases memorabilia of the late Philippine President Ferdinand E. Marcos and a large stately tomb housing his embalmed remains which are contained in a vacuum-sealed glass coffin. The Museum is the first structure seen from the main street and is the one which follows the lines of a colonial wood-and-brick house, with solid ground floor walls and an upper storey of wood decorated with floral motifs. The Mausoleum is a cube of adobe blocks and is stepped towards the top of the structure. The dark interior is divided into an entry foyer in which are exhibited old English standards and a bust of the former president.
Currimao
Currimao was a barrio of the town of Paoay, populated by fishermen and saltmakers along the coast and by farmers who cultivated small farms in the hills back of the sea shore. Its coastline is actually a cove, which made it a shelter and port for small sea vessels. The port itself was located in what is now called Gaang where the Tipcal (sometimes also called Gaong) River meets the sea, and where the fishermen docked their boats to meet buyers from all over.
The Currimao Coral Formation
Currimao hugs the coast and is blessed with breathtaking views of the sea. Coral formations rise from the crystal clear water. Reaching heights of more than 12 feet, these coral remains are the same material that has been used to build the baroque churches of the province. Visitors to Currimao should pack a picnic lunch before heading off to see the coral formations. Those who prefer to stay dry while eating may choose to eat at any bamboo kiosks erected along the sandy beach.
Paoay
The town of Paoay was founded in 1593. Paoay was established as municipality by virtue of Royal Decree in 1701 by Don Martin Guiang. Its first local executive is called “Captain Bosar”.
It is believed that the name of the town, Paoay from the Ilocano word “Makapaoay kami”, which means “we could get along independently” , has a great significance to the known characteristics and traits of its people. Paoayenos are, by nature, industrious, thrifty, intrepid, individualistic, daring, peace-loving, adventurous, hospitable and religious people.
Malacanang of the North
“Malacanang of the North“, overlooks serene Paoay Lake and it was the residence of former President Marcos and his family while they were in the North. When it was built in 1977, Malacanang of the North became the venue of the trendiest high society settings. The Marcoses entertained their guests to parties, water skis and golf.
Paoay Lake National Park
Paoay Lake is a freshwater system in Paoay, Ilocos Norte. It is located 3 kilometers away from the sea in Suba. The lake is composed of natural fresh water, where over 300 farmers draw water from to irrigate their crops. It was declared as a National Park under Republic Act 5631 on June 21, 1969.
Paoay Golf Courseand Sports Complex
When Paoay Lake was declared as a National Park its environs was turned into a sports complex including a world-class 18 hole golf course.
Suba Beach Sand Dunes
In Suba Beach, you can find high, extensive sand dunes, more imposing than those at La Paz, where many Philippine films has been shot.
Paoay Church - UNESCO World Heritage Site
The construction of Paoay Church was started in 1704 and was completed in 1894 by the Augustinian friars led by Fr. Antonio Estavillo.
It is probably the best-known “earthquake Baroque” church in the Philippines. Large coral stones were used for the lower level while bricks were used for the upper levels of the church. The walls are 1.67 meters thick and are supported by 24 carved and massive buttresses.
The Church is a unique combination of Gothic, Baroque and Oriental designs. The bell tower near the church, dating from 1793, served as an observation point of the “Katipuneros” during the Philippine Revolution in 1896 and again by the guerrillas during the Japanese occupation.
It has been included as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.