Laoag is the capital of the Ilcos Norte province in the Philippines and derives its name from the word "lawag" meaning "light" or "brightness". This refers to the beautiful clear blue skyline of the city. This bustling and vibrant city is the centre of commerce and industry in the region and home to a busy airport.
The city offers abundant natural beauty in the nearby Cordillera Central and Sierra Madre mountain ranges and the West Philippine Sea and is well known for its Spanish colonial buildings and baroque era churches, the La Paz Sand Dunes, and white-sand beach resorts. The mansions that were so much a part of the Marcos-era dot the region.
A number of annual events make this a great travel destination for the culturally conscious including Ghost Week at Halloween and the Pamulinawen Festival in February which honours St. William the Hermit, the patron saint of the city.
Laoag offers peaceful and pristine areas and as well as areas that appeal to lovers of culture, history and architecture. Visitors can also while away the late hours at the local casino or at the resort areas and spas.
Fort Ilocandia Casino
Located in the north of the city, Laoag's most popular attraction is the 5-star Fort Ilocandia Hotel and casino. The Fort Ilocandia casino is popular with young and old who enjoy the chance to roll the dice win big or to sit back and just enjoy the slot machines for the night.
Pagudpud beach
The city is home to Pagupud Beach where you can soak up the sun or sandy beach, listen to the sounds of the sea, go for a stroll, swim, or laze in the sun. It offers an idyllic vacation spot to relax and renew the soul and body.
Laoag Cathedral
During the 1600s Italian Renaissance, the Laoag Cathedral was built by Augustinian friars to replace an old wooden chapel. This famous building is today the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Laoag - the central church in the region. Boasting striking columns and a two-storey façade the building houses an image of William of Maleval -the city's patron saint.
The city offers a host of traditional and contemporary events and festivities to enjoy, making the area a great place to visit at various times of the year. Festivals are held annually and attract large numbers of locals and tourists.
Dulang Food Festival: The best of Ilocos food can be savoured at this annual festival in February which celebrates the gastronomic delights of the region.
The Pamulinawen Festival: This takes place on the 10th February every year in the city. This very popular festival is held to honour St William, the hermit. It is believed that the patron saint protects the inhabitants of the city from bad luck.
Ghost Week: Held in the city since 2010, this event features the Ghost Parade, complete with costumes and floats. The party begins on October 25th with a spooky movie. Visitors and participants dress up in their favourite Halloween costumes and enjoy, music, dancing and a celebration of all things scary.
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