Laoag City

The city of Laoag is the called the “Sunshine City” for many reasons. The word “laoag” means, “light” in Ilocano and in Ilocos Norte, it seldom rains bringing sunshine almost all year round.

Laoag is the capital city of Ilocos Norte and considered by many travelers as the real Gateway to the North. As the capital, it is the province’s center for trade and commerce with tourism as one of its major industries. Still, the city has that laidback lifestyle with kalesas still roaming the city streets.

Located in the northen part of Luzon and 10 hours away from Manila, the city welcomes its visitors to its rich and vibrant heritage. The fastest way to get to Laoag is by plane from Manila which only takes a few hours.

Here are some interesting sights to see in Laoag City…

Sinking Bell Tower

The main landmark of the city is it’s bell tower which sinks one inch per year. And if you look closer, its doors are really too low and a little dropped to the ground. At night, there are little lights in the tower that makes it very romantic.

Regarding those power lines, there is a proposed plan to clear out the neighboring areas of the bell tower. I hope they can do this asap.

Tobacco Monopoly Monument

Due to its land condition, Ilocos cultivates tobacco and was badly used my Spanish authorities. Until now, tobacco is still grown in the province. This monument which is in the heart of the city and a few blocks from the Sinking Bell Towers, reminds how the Ilocanos rebelled against the Spaniards when they were abused.

During the Tobacco monopoly, natives were given  quota on how much tobacco they should plant and harvest. And they can only sell their crop to the Spanish government leaving nothing for their own consumption. Along with other crops like the basi, a local wine, the Ilocanos revolted agaisnt the colonizers.

Ilocos Norte Museum

It’s hard to  miss the Ilocos Norte Museum, it is just a stone throw away from the capitol and other government offices. It has one of the best collections in for a local museum with each exhibitions properly organized. The museum also used to be a building for tobacco trade.

Laoag City Hall

The city hall of Laoag is an old and impressive structure. It is the complete opposite of other citiy halls in the Philippines that are so plain and shabby. I really find their city hall grand and elegant. What do you think?

St. William’s Cathedral

On the right side of the city’s rotunda behind McDonald’s is the Cathedral of St. William. This cathedral which looks rather new is actually a 17th century structure. The cathedral bears the Italian Renaissance style of architecture.

For more information about Laoag City like transportation, dining and accommodation, visit the city’s official site. Click here!