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ILOCOS REGION Overview

The Ilocos Region, located in northern Luzon, Philippines, consists of four provinces: Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan. Founded in 1972, it has rich cultural and historical significance dating back to pre-Hispanic times.

Economic Activities

The economy is primarily driven by agriculture, fishing, and small industries. Key crops include rice, corn, tobacco, garlic, and various root crops. The region is abundant in natural resources such as limestone and diverse agricultural products.

PROVINCES AND HISTORY OF THE ILOCOS REGION

Ilocos Norte

• History: Established as a separate province in 1818, it was heavily influenced by Spanish colonization introducing Christianity and infrastructure. Post-World War II, the province saw growth in tourism and renewable energy.

• Notable Figures: Birthplace of former President Ferdinand Marcos, known for major infrastructure projects.

Ilocos Sur

• History: Also became a separate province in 1818. Notable for the establishment of Vigan and local revolts against Spanish rule, notably by Diego and Gabriela Silang.

• Heritage: Home to Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its preserved Spanish colonial architecture.

La Union

• History: Initially part of Pangasinan, La Union became a separate province in 1850. Known for agriculture and trade, especially tobacco. Improvements in infrastructure occurred under American rule.

• Tourism: Famous for beaches, agriculture, and surfing activities.

Pangasinan

• History: Named after the word "pangas" (salt). It was one of the first regions Christianized by the Spanish. The province has a significant history in farming and local uprisings against colonial rule.

• Reputation: Known for its agricultural productivity, especially in rice and tobacco, as well as its beautiful natural landscapes.

GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION

• Boundaries:

  • North: South China Sea

  • South: Central Luzon (Region 3)

  • East: Cordillera Mountains

  • West: West Philippine Sea

HISTORICAL PLACES

• Vigan City: Calle Crisologo, Vigan Heritage Site, Syquia Mansion Museum.

• Ilocos Norte: Malacañang of the North, Bantay Watch Tower, Kapurpurawan Rock Formations.

• Significant Monument: Battle of Tirad Pass in Ilocos Sur.

TOURIST SPOTS

• Notable locations include:

  • San Agustin Church, Bangui Windmills, Tangadan Falls, Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion Church, and Bacnotan Church.

FESTIVALS

• Bacarra, Ilocos Norte: Bac-baCarra Festival (November 30)

• Paoay, Ilocos Norte: Guling-Guling Martes (pre-Ash Wednesday)

• Laoag, Ilocos Norte: Pamulinawen Festival (February 10)

• Pinili, Ilocos Norte: Pinili Town Fiesta and Agro-Industrial Fare (April 13-16)

• Sinait, Ilocos Sur: Sinait Garlic Festival (May 1-3)

• Vigan City, Ilocos Sur: Binatbatan Festival (First Week of May)

DELICACIES IN REGION 1

• Ilocos Norte: Batac Empanada, bright orange and filled with longganisa and papaya.

• Ilocos Sur: Sinanglao, a flavored beef innards soup.

• La Union: Bagnet, crispy deep-fried pork belly, known for its crunchy texture.

• Pangasinan: Pigar Pigar, a special braised beef dish.

RENOWNED PEOPLE IN THE REGION

Ilocos Norte

• Gregorio Aglipay: Revolutionary leader, founder of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente.

• Diego Silang: Leader of the 18th-century Silang Revolt against Spanish rule.

Ilocos Sur

• Gabriela Silang: Continued Diego Silang’s legacy and led revolts against colonialism.

• Elpidio Quirino: Sixth President of the Philippines.

La Union

• Fernando Poe Jr.: Respected actor and politician.

• Francisco Ortega III: Notable politician in the 20th century.

Pangasinan

• Fidel V. Ramos: 12th President of the Philippines.

• Oscar Orbos: Politician known for his contributions to local governance.