This bustling northern province needs its own thread. From the roaring cities of Laoag and Batac, to the laid-back country-side and pristine beaches, Ilocos Norte deserves it's own spot. Post away guys!

Koreans eye direct flight to LC (http://ilocostimes.com/jul02-jul22-07/update_3.htm)

KOREAN nationals will have another reason to visit this northern gateway of the Philippines as a direct flight from South Korea is being eyed to service the Korea-Laoag route.

Ms Milagros R. Gonzales, senior tourism officer of the Department of Tourism’s Laoag sub-office, made this announcement recently following the arrival of at least 50 Korean nationals, who availed of a connecting flight from Manila via Philippine Airlines on July 26.

With the influx of more Koreans wanting to visit Ilocos Norte’s popular historical landmarks and scenic tourist attractions, Gonzales said the Koreans are pushing for the opening of a direct flight from Korea to Laoag.
Among the top Korean destinations in the province are Pagudpud’s white beaches, which have been acclaimed as one of the top 10 beaches in the country, according to the DOT.

Presently, Korean nationals visiting the province avail of a connecting flight to the Laoag International Airport twice a week.

If plans don’t miscarry, a 100-seater Koran Air plane will soon be the carrier of Korean nationals who want to visit Ilocos Norte.

Aside from spending leisure activities in the province, Korean investors, such as a certain Juny Park, manager of Nam’s Golf Course Corporation, have also expressed their desire to invest in the province with an aim to attract more tourists by providing better services for them to enjoy their stay.

Citing one of the possible investment opportunities which the Korean investors are reportedly eyeing include the development of Paoay Lake, a project that has gotten the full support of Paoay Mayor Bonifacio C. Clemente Jr.

Since the lake is very the golf course, Gonzales said Korean investors want more support facilities such as spa and very good night clubs so Korean tourists would lessen travel time and instead stay near the city and the golf course. Golf is one of the Koreans’ favorite sports.

Leilanie G. Adriano

__________



Laoag International Airport

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/159/414525092_524e41b843.jpg?v=0
Photo by ela_china (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ela_china/414525092/in/set-72157600267264016/)

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1157/630949357_4ebe289c43.jpg?v=0
Photo by Shinji Ikari (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ikari/sets/72157600499238852/)

^^ ganda pala itsura ng laoag international airport, parang fort ilocandia


pero parang i-coclose itong thread nato

Ay bakit nila i-coclose?

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1192/959377090_a3462b2dac.jpg?v=0
Photo by HarryCool (http://flickr.com/photos/83724274@N00/)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/81/211404629_e458ed838d.jpg?v=0

Photo by diamonds_in_the_soles_o f_her_shoes (http://flickr.com/photos/diamonds_in_the_soles_of_her_shoes/)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/215/505505520_b574a49d8f.jpg?v=0
Maira-ira, Pagudpud
Photo by Goms (http://flickr.com/photos/goms77/)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/32/58330959_a13d66a6ca.jpg?v=0
Maira-ira, Pagudpud
Photo by wondrous22 (http://flickr.com/photos/sisay/)

http://l.yimg.com/www.flickr.com/images/spaceball.gif
http://l.yimg.com/www.flickr.com/images/spaceball.gif
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/186/474312740_21d0cc5177.jpg?v=0
St. Augustine Church, Paoay
Photo by Geourgina (http://flickr.com/photos/37198433@N00/)

onga ang ganda nga ng erport

taga-san kayo sa ILOCOS NORTE

ako sa BADOC

Mga ninuno ko taga Batac. :happy:

Orig na orig ang erport na yan, bro!

When i went to Laoag las year, I saw things not common in Philippines:
-Police Office was made of bricks same as the airport style.
-Policemen eat donuts & kape
-In Crismast Time, All trees around the eria had no leafs, just like in States.
-Electronic Greeting look v.good, and hi-tech.
-Colder than Bagio
-Has developed roadz.
-Very Beautiful @ night
-Has all komplete infrastruktures, including bus parking and stop ligt.
and more

Baka yung nakita mong police station made of bricks eh yung extension ng Laoag City Hall that was allocated to the Department of Public Safety. :)

It gets cold nga during November to February. Di ko alam tungkol sa trees, di ko napapansin. Iisa pa lang traffic light.

You forgot to mention, super linis ;)

Im from Laoag.

Koreans eye direct flight to LC (http://ilocostimes.com/jul02-jul22-07/update_3.htm)

Laoag International Airport

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/159/414525092_524e41b843.jpg?v=0
Photo by [/SIZE][/SIZE][/SIZE]ela_china (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ela_china/414525092/in/set-72157600267264016/)

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1157/630949357_4ebe289c43.jpg?v=0
Photo by Shinji Ikari (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ikari/sets/72157600499238852/)


these are nice pics of this airport. Can you guys post more of it??? I just noticed that the roof needs some repainting. Maybe the management would use those tiles on that roof instead of a painted GI sheets.

Nice airport, something different about it, actually it looks more like a train station to me. :lol: Yeah, the roof needs changing, maybe something that will reflect more of the local architecture. :okay:

By the way, I'm of Ilocano descent too....but not from the Norte, from the Sur! :hi:

That airport used to handle MD-11 flights going to HNL,sayang it was good start,killed by the Asian crisis:(

I like your airport - a bit different from the usual airport style in the RP...btw, what international airlines fly there? And how many times per week?

Can you please post more pictures of Laoag? And Vigan na rin? I plan to have a vacation there this September. Gusto ko sana ng mga patikim na pictures. Hehehe

I'll try to take some photos of the new arrivals building and its new control tower pag nakauwi ako.

Heres a list of airlines that currently services LIA. From wikipedia.

The following airlines fly to Laoag International Airport:

* Cebu Pacific (Manila)
* China Southern Airlines (Guangzhou)
* Hong Kong Airlines (Hong Kong) charter
* Philippine Airlines (Manila)
* Asian Spirit
Former airlines
* Air Philippines
* Far Eastern Air Transport
* South East Asian Airlines
* Air Macau
* Mandarin Airlines

But Im not sure kung accurate pa yan. The most notable landings made were the MD-11 ravencute mentioned and an Evergreen flight that carried Marcos' body. There were rumours before that a 747 direct flight from Hawaii will service Laoag but did not push through daw due to the slow development of the airport.

Repost ko mga pics that I took before.

Paoay Church
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/Paoay03.jpg

Paoay Church Belfry
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/Paoay02.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/Paoay01.jpg

Currimao Coral Formations
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/currimao05.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/currimao06.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/currimao04.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/currimao03.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/currimao02.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/currimao01.jpg

Badoc Belfry
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/badoc.jpg

Since malapit na ang "ber" months, repost ko ulit Christmas pictures ng Laoag City Plaza December of 2006.

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ChristmasPlaza04.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ChristmasPlaza02.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ChristmasPlaza-TobaccoMonopoly01.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ChristmasPlaza-Nativity01.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ChristmasPlaza-MaidenandMan01.jpg
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ChristmasPlaza-Maiden01.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ChristmasPlaza-Kalesa01.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ChristmasPlaza-FountainDome01.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ChristmasPlaza-Arko03.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ChristmasPlaza-Arko02.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ChristmasPlaza-Arko01.jpg

Laoag City Hall
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ChristmasPlaza-CityHall01.jpg

Laoag City Capitol
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ChristmasPlaza-Capitol01.jpg

Padsan River
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/Image140.jpg

Beach after Patapat Viaduct, right before Cagayan
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/pagudpud01.jpg

Pagudpud
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/pagudpud02.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/pagudpud03.jpg

Museo Ilocos Norte
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/museoilocosnortecopy.jpg

Laoag City Capitol
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ilocosnortecapitolcopy.jpg

Laoag City Pamulinawen Carnival 2006
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/Carnival02-edit.jpg

Some montage of Laoag images I got from the net. I included the city seal.
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/LAOAGpic.jpg

Gilbert Bridge, Sinking Belltower, Fort Ilocandia Fountain, Sand Dunes, Laoag cathedral, Sinking belltower and Fort Ilocandia Plaza

^^ Thanks for the pics! Very historical indeed. Im looking forward to visiting Ilocandia next month! :cheers:

Pagudpod
http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/Pagudpodafternoon.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/IcarusPix002.jpg

Paoay
http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/Paoay.jpg

Cape Bojeador
http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/CapeBojeador.jpg

nice pics. I my self is an Ilocano descent but I have never been to Ilocos.

Just curious....how many here in the forum are Ilocanos and/or of Ilocano descent? Not only Norte and Sur, but Ilocano speaking too? :dunno:

Just curious....how many here in the forum are Ilocanos and/or of Ilocano descent? Not only Norte and Sur, but Ilocano speaking too? :dunno:

I'm not and I don't speak Ilokano... I only eat Ilokano. Sarap nung bagnet at pinakbet. Mmmm....Hehe.

Plaza of the Paoay Church... http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/icarus_pix2_043_edited.jpg

At Cape Bojeador...

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/509953569l.jpg

By the seaside, Burgos.

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/546317546l.jpg

We went to Pagudpod out of curiousity. Boracay of the North daw kasi. Hometown ng parents ko kasi Pandan, Antique about an hour away from Boracay. Ganda rin ng beaches dun sa Pandan. So yun, I just wanted to see the beautiful beaches of Luzon. It's well worth the trip. Ang saya-saya kahit masakit sa katawan. Mapapawi lahat ng hapdi at kirot kapag andun ka na...In the end wala nang sisihan. Ako kasi pasimuno ng "paglalakbay" na ito. Here's an excerpt of the trip from my friendster blog:

You can imagine our consternation when after 2 hours of driving; past the light house of Burgos , past the windmills of Bangui; the road beneath us seemed to have no end in sight. But it is no one else’s fault because we had plainly ignored the word “remote” when the magazine article said, “Pagupod’s remoteness makes it idyllic for people who want seclusion.”

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/IcarusPix2170.jpg

The promise of Pagudpod’s golden sands and sapphire waters sustained our hopes during those times of uncertainty. We comforted each other with the thought that once we've held the plow there's no turning back. Our persistence was rewarded soon enough. The vision of Pagudpod’s welcome arch galvanized our faiths. Our spirits yearning for rest, we soon found sanctuary in Paradise.

Our Pagudpod haven was a newly-built cottage with four rooms. With air-conditioning and rooms good enough to accomodate four in each, it was a steal. Though not a beach-front, our temporary Tatay and Nanay, the owners of the cottage, more than made up with Filipino warmth and hospitality.

Our worn-out bodies would soon be bathing in the tropical waters lapping at the golden-grained sands of Saud Beach. All the guilts of this physically taxing journey would soon be absolved, all murmurs of unfaithfulness forgiven. In Paradise there is no darkness and we shall all be like angels .



http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/277429735l.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/828434864l.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/857567535l.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/1_731475545l.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/375053355l.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/195252270l.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/IcarusPix105.jpg

Just curious....how many here in the forum are Ilocanos and/or of Ilocano descent? Not only Norte and Sur, but Ilocano speaking too? :dunno:

apay padacamet nga nangisit iti sicona?

apay padacamet nga nangisit iti sicona?

Kasdiay kaddi? Nu nangisit sikko na, ilokano-n? :lol:

adda maysa nga nasarakac nga ilocano ditoyen. hohoho :lol:

^^ not necessarily true, but one of the funny sayings that define an ilocano.

I apologize for asking this, but what did the previous posts mean? Can anybody translate please? Kinda ashamed to admit it but my grasp of Ilocano isn't that great, my Ilonggo side keeps overruling it! :lol:

apay padacamet nga nangisit iti sicona?

Bat pareho daw ba kayong maitim ang siko? :D

Kasdiay kaddi? Nu nangisit sikko na, ilokano-n? :lol:

Ganun ba? Kung maitim ang siko, ilokano na? :D

adda maysa nga nasarakac nga ilocano ditoyen. hohoho :lol:

^^ not necessarily true, but one of the funny sayings that define an ilocano.

May isa na akong nahanap na ilokano dito. :D

----
Madami variations ng translation eh. Meron pa mas malalalim na ilokano.

Icarus: thanks for visiting my province.

Question lang, sang part to ng Pagudpud?

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/1_731475545l.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/375053355l.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/195252270l.jpg

apay padacamet nga nangisit iti sicona?

Bat pareho daw ba kayong maitim ang siko? :D

Kasdiay kaddi? Nu nangisit sikko na, ilokano-n? :lol:

Ganun ba? Kung maitim ang siko, ilokano na? :D

adda maysa nga nasarakac nga ilocano ditoyen. hohoho :lol:

^^ not necessarily true, but one of the funny sayings that define an ilocano.

May isa na akong nahanap na ilokano dito. :D

----
Madami variations ng translation eh. Meron pa mas malalalim na ilokano.

Thanks Zach! :okay:

No problem :)

Didyay Pagudpud last April 2004. Nabayag agitoyen nga litrato.

http://images.allanmedrano.multiply.com/image/12/photos/22/600x600/34/Image%28176%29.jpg?et=Pj%2BwcedhQjfMqVf4C2WJjQ

http://images.allanmedrano.multiply.com/image/11/photos/22/600x600/26/Image%28166%29.jpg?et=3i%2CzNcA49Df91rAP8EH2zw

http://images.allanmedrano.multiply.com/image/13/photos/22/600x600/29/Image%28169%29.jpg?et=fJb2YRuArK9wE63SFoZk2Q

http://images.allanmedrano.multiply.com/image/12/photos/22/600x600/7/Image%28123%29.jpg?et=mGhatKod3%2BzcXDFqIFeWcw

Icarus: thanks for visiting my province.
Question lang, sang part to ng Pagudpud?

Thanks, the pleasure was all ours. We had a grand time. Halata naman di ba?

No idea, Sir kung anu name ng place basta sumakay pa kami ng boat...It's within the same cove. Sensha na, first time ko eh, hehe... But here's a view opposite where we took those pictures showing the lagoon...

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/162739947l.jpg

http://i108.photobucket.com/albums/n37/icarus05x/Ilocos/IcarusPix104.jpg



Ayan, siguro alam mo na, Sir....

The beaches are so beautiful! I didn't know that they have those kind of beaches in the Norte (in the Sur, it's all rocky and pebble-strewn), the sand is so powdery fine! :shocked:

icarus-rising: Mukhang dun sa may kabilang dulo yung area na yan. Yung di masyado napupuntahan ng tao. Malayo kasi pag nilakad.

kiretoce: Actually, di siya powdery fine. Typical size ng sand na maputi lang. Di rin nga siya ganun ka-white kung ibebase mo siya sa quality ng Boracay.

^^ Looks powdery fine from the photos, and those photos were an eye-opener for me since I usually see photos of beaches like those coming from the Visayas (and parts of Mindanao). I was pleasantly surprised to know that they also have that up in northern Luzon, especially in the Ilocos region.

I prefer Maira-ira to Saud.

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/001915566.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/001915565.jpg

Photos courtesy of tulog from pinoyexchange.com Travel and Leisure Forum - Pagudpud Thread.

ganda ng pics, icarus
maganda sa pagudpud ay nde maalat yung tubig o masakit sa mata, bat ba?
pero yung alon naman, katakot...hehe

ganda ng pics, icarus
maganda sa pagudpud ay nde maalat yung tubig o masakit sa mata, bat ba?
pero yung alon naman, katakot...hehe

Ano ba? Hehe. Syempre dagat. Malaki siguro ang alon because this is the part where The Pacific Ocean meets the South China Sea, di ba?

I don't know how habagat and amihan affects the waves facing North. Sa Boracay kasi, nasa East side (White Beach) and West side (Bulabog Beach) ang tourism beaches. Depending on the season, you can expect where the waves will be bigger.

I prefer Maira-ira to Saud.


Ang ganda nga naman, brod. The boatmen were suggesting that we go to a place called Blue Lagoon kaso we were in a hurry. How I wish we stayed longer... Mga isang linggo para mas ma-appreciate namin ang place. Hehe. Iyan ba yung sa Blue Lagoon o iba pa?

Laoag will soon have a 22,000sqm. Robinsons Mall of its own

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/4305/robra7.jpg

I prefer Maira-ira to Saud.

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/001915566.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/001915565.jpg

Photos courtesy of tulog from pinoyexchange.com Travel and Leisure Forum - Pagudpud Thread.


Me too Zach. I've been to Maira-ira and Saud and I find the former's location more serene. It has that hidden ambience that Saud doesn't have.

In fact, the October 2007 issue of Islands Magazine listed Mayraira Beach (that's how they spell it, which may be correct since it's derived from northern Luzon's Mayraira Point where the beach is located) as one of the WORLD'S 30 BEST UNDISCOVERED BEACHES. Here's the mag's short but revealing description of the beach:

The 2nd Annual World's 30 Best Undiscovered Beaches

At the northernmost point of Luzon in the northern Philippines is Mayraira Point, where you'll find a small, secluded cove of the same name. It's also known as the Blue Lagoon for its stunningly blue pools of water.

The beach is one of only 3 in Asia included in the list. The other two beaches are located in Bali, Indonesia and Phi Phi Le in Thailand.

^ Naku dapat meron ng task force ang provincial gov't ng Ilocos Norte na magmomonitor sa tourism development ng Pagudpud. Sana hindi matulad sa Boracay na disorganized and walang "general theme".

I believe ang Ilocos may sariling brand. Sana ma-apply ito sa lahat ng resort developments sa Pagudpud. Yung ma-highlight pagka Ilocano natin: simple, peaceful, artistic at mapalinis sa kapaligiran.

Ang ganda nga naman, brod. The boatmen were suggesting that we go to a place called Blue Lagoon kaso we were in a hurry. How I wish we stayed longer... Mga isang linggo para mas ma-appreciate namin ang place. Hehe. Iyan ba yung sa Blue Lagoon o iba pa?

Next time. Make sure na pumunta kayo sa place na yun. Its really nice.

Me too Zach. I've been to Maira-ira and Saud and I find the former's location more serene. It has that hidden ambience that Saud doesn't have.

In fact, the September 2007 issue of Islands Magazine listed Mayraira Beach (that's how they spell it, which may be correct since it's derived from northern Luzon's Mayraira Point where the beach is located) as one of the WORLD'S 30 BEST UNDISCOVERED BEACHES. Here's the mag's short but revealing description of the beach:

The 2nd Annual World's 30 Best Undiscovered Beaches

At the northernmost point of Luzon in the northern Philippines is Mayraira Point, where you'll find a small, secluded cove of the same name. It's also known as the Blue Lagoon for its stunningly blue pools of water.

The beach is one of only 3 in Asia included in the list. The other two beaches are located in Bali, Indonesia and Phi Phi Le in Thailand.

I wish they could maintain it that way. Sana wag na madagdagan ng resorts dun. Tama na yung isa dun sa dulo.

^ Naku dapat meron ng task force ang provincial gov't ng Ilocos Norte na magmomonitor sa tourism development ng Pagudpud. Sana hindi matulad sa Boracay na disorganized and walang "general theme".

I believe ang Ilocos may sariling brand. Sana ma-apply ito sa lahat ng resort developments sa Pagudpud. Yung ma-highlight pagka Ilocano natin: simple, peaceful, artistic at mapalinis sa kapaligiran.

Sana nga di matulad ang Saud at Blue Lagoon sa Boracay.

Laoag will soon have a 22,000sqm. Robinsons Mall of its own

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/4305/robra7.jpg

Heres the proposed site. Brgy. Nangalisan. A 5 min drive from the city proper.
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/robplacelaoaglocation02.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/robplacelaoaglocation.jpg

Tantya lang yung lot ha. Pero sure akong yan ang location. May access road na ginawa na may landscaped island lined with palm trees. Try ko take ng pics pag nakauwi ako. :D

there is an island in the town of Badoc, it is called Badoc Island
it has a white sand beach and i forgot its other features.

It is on sale for about 200 million pesos

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1136/1269152304_9fb1adc674_o.jpg
Badoc Island Photo courtesy of Wikimapia.org

http://www.badocislandresort.com/img0.gif (http://www.badocislandresort.com/)

Badoc Surfing Map courtesy of Badoc Island Resort (CLICK IMAGE FOR THE LINK)

http://www.badocislandresort.com/badocLOGO.jpg (http://www.badocislandresort.com/)

__________

Badoc Church

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/73/171944161_95207cc1dd.jpg?v=0
Flickr photo courtesy of Jesus Casabar/ isla pinas (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lens4469/)
__________

Juan Luna Shrine, Badoc, Ilocos Norte

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/51/171949369_5e42bc9b81.jpg?v=0
Flickr photo courtesy of Jesus Casabar/ isla pinas (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lens4469/)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/52/171950341_670bd98724.jpg?v=0
Flickr photo courtesy of Jesus Casabar/ isla pinas (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lens4469/)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/55/171950340_f17721decc.jpg?v=0
Flickr photo courtesy of Jesus Casabar/ isla pinas (http://www.flickr.com/photos/lens4469/)

^ Nag field trip kami sa Juan Luna Shrine when i was in second year high school ten years ago. Maganda ang museum na yan. Sobrang linis pa ng lugar. :)

I've been to Ilocos Norte numerous times but I've never been to Badoc. Ang ganda din pala.

^^ actually yung mga pictures na pinakita sa itaas ayun lang ang pinaka highlights ng Badoc.

Badoc is the first town of Ilocos Norte

^^ Kaya pala. Nasa northern portion naman ako madalas, stayed in Pasuquin everytime I'm in Ilocos. Aside from Pasuquin and Laoag (a place you can't miss to visit once you're in Ilocos), I also had a glance, especially the churches of Paoay, Batac, Pagudpud, Baccara, Bangui, Burgos, Piddig, Sarrat and San Nicolas.

shyaman: Have you tried Pasuquin's Biscucho? Soft and toasted?

^^ Yup. I've tried it.

Funny thing is... my friend and I argued on which biscocho is the original. We also have biscocho in iloilo but it's sweet because of a thin layer of milky topping. Yung sa pasuquin parang sliced toasted bread lang but they're similar in size and shape.

Sabi nya, nakagisnan na niya na may biscocho sa kanila. Sabi ko naman ganun din sa amin.

can anybody post some pics of thr windmills of Ilocos? thanks

Koreans eye tourism investment in Ilocos Norte (http://ilocostimes.com/aug27-sep16-07/news_20.htm)

KOREAN investors from Real Enterprise Corp. (REC), which operates hotels and casinos in Korea, are eyeing possibly tourism investment in the province following their visit on August 26.

Kim Jung Hwan, REC chairman, said the province of Ilocos Norte has a great potential for tourism investment. However, he added that when compared to other provinces, Ilocos Norte needs more development to attract more tourists to come in.

“This place is very beautiful but it is not yet fully developed. This is the first problem here. So we will try to invite more Koreans to come here by doing sort of a promotion package,” Kim said through an interpreter.

After visiting several tourist spots in the province, which included the Pagudpud beaches, Paoay Lake, Nipa Beach Resort, and the Korean-managed golf course in Suba, Paoay, Kim said that they are interested in running a hotel and restaurant, establish a casino and a golf course as recreation for tourists. They also visited the ongoing construction of the multi-million-peso hotel and convention center in Suba where they have yet to study if running a casino in the area would be feasible.

The Koreans said they are considering an area in Pagudpud near the beach as a possible site for the establishment of a golf course to lure more tourist in the municipality, which has a breathtaking view of green, hilly mountains and a long stretch of pristine beaches.

Meanwhile, former Burgos Councilor Joegie Jimenez and newly appointed assistant provincial tourism officer, personally invited the Koreans to visit the province which he coordinated with the Ilocos Norte provincial government and the Department of Tourism Laoag sub-office, headed by senior tourism officer Milagros R. Gonzales.

Jimenez, along with some DOT officials and Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Portia Salenda, SP tourism committee chair, accompanied the Koreans in their tour of the province.

Leilanie G. Adriano

LC council approves P5M fund for LC stadium (http://ilocostimes.com/aug27-sep16-07/news_24.htm)
September 2, 2007
THE ILOCOS TIMES - NEWS

THE Laoag City Sports Stadium proposed by Mayor Michael V. Fariñas during his first term is now a step closer to being realized after the Sangguniang Panlungsod approved its P5 million budget for the initial construction of the said project.

According to Engineer Roy Tomas of the City Engineering Office, the P5 million budget would be for the Phase I of the construction, which would include the perimeter fence, site development, track oval, a basketball, tennis, sepak takraw and volleyball courts.

The project site is a seven-hectare lot owned by the city government and located just beside the Ilocos Norte School of Fisheries in Barangay La Paz, Laoag City.

Tomas also mentioned that they have submitted the necessary papers for the project bidding.

The said stadium has been envisioned by Fariñas as the practice and training area of the city’s athletes after he observed that most schools in the city lack sports facilities, which, in turn, hamper training.

After learning of the council’s approval, Fariñas thanked the members of the sanggunian saying this simply means that the “long-time dream” of Laoag to have its own stadium would now be realized.

Upon completion of the said stadium, Fariñas said Laoag’s athletes would now have their own place where they could concentrate on their training.

Meanwhile, city schools division superintendent Dr. Cecilia P. Aribuabo expressed her gratitude to the city government for their help in the Department of Education’s programs and activities.

Aribuabo said with the stadium, athletes would no longer move from one place to another for their training.

She added that she hopes that project would be started soon so the city’s athletes would be able to use it in the

Dominic B. dela Cruz

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the only problem with ilocos beaches are the huge waves! you will barely find fisherfolks along its coastlines... unlike in the visayas. kaya ang mahal ng mga seafoods diyan, yung mura bangus at tilapia...

in our town of sta.catalina the only structure in the coastline is cockfight arena... hehehe!

2 more power firms eye windfarms in Burgos

Leilanie G. Adriano (http://ilocostimes.com/oct01-oct07-07/topnews_1.htm)

BURGOS, Ilocos Norte—With the success of the wind farm operated by Northwind Development Corp. in Bangui, Ilocos Norte, two more energy firms from the United States have expressed interest in exploring the possibility of setting up their own wind farms in this town.

Burgos Mayor Cresente Garcia told The Ilocos Times recently that aside from the Philippine National Oil Company-Energy Development Corp. (PNOC-EDC), which had earlier started construction of wind power farm here, two more US-based companies are interested to conduct wind assessment in this town for its possible inclusion in the world map of wind-energy following the operation of the 25-MW wind power farm in the neighboring town of Bangui, Ilocos Norte.

The said US companies were identified as UPC Wind and Energy Logics.

Garcia said UPC Wind is currently conducting wind assessment in Barangays Agaga, Bayog, Paayas and Buduan, while Energy Logics is set to conduct the same operation in the same barangays early next year.

“UPC started wind assessment just this year. They are setting up right now a wind mask in Barangay Tanap. Energy Logics is also planning to do the same by next year,” Garcia said in the local dialect.

If the project pushes through, Garcia said this municipality will not only become a tourist attraction but it would also spur economic development in the area with the generation of more jobs and livelihood opportunities.

To prepare Burgos into becoming an investment-friendly municipality, Garcia said his administration is trying to control and maintain the peace and order situation to secure investors looking for potential investment sites.

Largest cassava cake brings new hope for Dingras

Leilanie G. Adriano (http://www.ilocostimes.com/)

DINGRAS, Ilocos Norte—Once heavily devastated by typhoons dating back to 2001, local farmers have been looking for a spark of hope that they would return to being an agriculturally productive municipality again.

The spark of hope they have been looking for may have came in the form of the municipal government’s bid to break the world record for the largest cassava cake as it kick starts its major agro-economic enterprise push in the area.

Dingras, which has been known as the rice granary of Ilocos Norte, is carving a niche in the cassava cake market, which they intend not only for local consumption but also for export.

On October 8, 2007, a cassava cake measuring 300 feet long was put on display at the Dingras Municipal Hall. The said cake is expected to break the current record in the Guinness Book of Records.

A week before the demonstration, three trainers from Mariano Marcos State University’s College of Information Technology through the Dingras-based Center for Applied Research and Technology Transfer (CARTT), and the Department of Agriculture conducted a training for 40 women from the Rural Improvement Club and the Women and Development groups. The training was facilitated through the request of Dingras Mayor Marynette Gamboa, who allotted funds for the said event.

The participants were trained how to cook native delicacies such as bibingka (rice cakes), linapet, cassava putay and cassava cake. Of the four delicacies, cassava cake was chosen because of the availability of raw materials in the area, Sosima Demandante, a training facilitator, told The Ilocos Times in an interview.

With low capital requirement needed in cassava farming, local farmers have opted to plant this as an alternative crop next to rice, corn and vegetables.

“Cassava farming in Dingras town is not so much on a large scale but we are developing this crop because it has an easy maintenance of production and it can grow in any type soil and in any kind of terrain,” Dingras Councilor Samuel Demadante, chair of the Sangguniang Bayan’s agriculture committee, explained.

According to Demadante, the town has a lot of farmlands that could no longer be planted with rice due to intermediate rainfall. The DA then encouraged farmers to plant alternative crops like cassava, also known as “balanghoy” in the local dialect.

To boost the marketing of the new and improved cassava cake of this town, the large cassava cake put on display took at least 10 farmers to harvest one ton of raw materials that produced 800 kilos of finished cassava products out of a four-hectare cassava plantation.

The 40 training participants assisted the DA and the local government unit in the preparation of the cassava cake demonstration, taking them one day and one whole night.

Total cost for the said project ran up to P20,000 and estimated sales for the finished products have been pegged at P50,000.

In a separate interview with Gamboa, a first-term mayor, she said she wants to turn her town into a center of trade and industry in agriculture.

To do so, she increased the budget of agriculture as she also appropriated P20 million for farm-to-market roads, which has also been approved by the Department of Budget and Management and which added another P100 million support for farm-to-market roads to rural barangays.

Separate funds amounting to P64.7 million has also been secured by the lady mayor from national government agencies for the construction of a bridge that would connect Barangays Barong and Foz, for the improvement of dikes protecting Barangays Parado to Suyo, and the construction of several other flood control projects.

“Only 20 percent of our farmers plant hybrid crop varieties. This time, I plan to turn 80 percent [of the farmers] to plant hybrid,” Gamboa said during her first State of the Municipality Address, which she undertook to report what she has done in her first 100 days in office.

The said address was in time for Dingras’ People’s Day and which was attended by hundreds of local residents. The cassava cake demonstration was one of the highlights of the said event along with the launching of the e-center, which is expected to train local farmers in the use of the Internet for better access of technologies they may want to try and for other ventures they may also attempt in the future.

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Laoag City aerial | Photo by Storm Crypt (http://flickr.com/photos/storm-crypt/)

^^ Grabe iba ang klima dito, pero maganda parin :D

bakit? ano ang klima dyan?

Fariñas Caltex Station, Bacarra Road, Brgy. 55-B Salet, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte
(077)770-5996 to 97, 0910-8776849, 0921-6109910, 0906-3838838

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Entrance.
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The other side of the center is the site for the proposed Robinsons Mall.
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^^ Ang galing nung developer ng Java Hotel. Ang ganada ng dating nung thatched roof. May pagka Ilocano pa yung design, parang Paoay church tapos daming local jars. Classy yung interior.

For sure magugustuhan ito ng mga foreign tourists.

Saw that hotel on the way to Pagudpod last time. Though it was but a shadow of its completed grandeur at that time, I was intrigued by the distinctive architectural elements of its make up. I am happy for Ilocos to have such a stylish hotel that reflects the rich heritage of the region. :cheers:

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downtown laoag

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MMSU is no. 3 in the Philippines!!!

THE UNTIRING effort of the
Mariano Marcos State University
administration, head professors
and staff in maintaining the
scholastic standard of the institution
academically and technologically
are manifested by the
numerous awards and recognition
of their collective performance
that have been posted in
the “News of the Week,” a publication
of the university under
editor Kathleen M. Aguilar and
her editorial staff.
MMSU President Dr.
Miriam E. Pascua rejoiced when
24 of their 31 examinees passed
the recent Certified Public Accountant
Licensure Examination,
registering a 77.42% passing rate
for the university.
In other fields, eight passed
the electrical engineering examination
where they recorded a
31.1% passing rate and 45% in
the master electrician test.
In sports, MMSU’s
taekwondo team bagged the
championship in the 1st Ilocos
Norte Taekwondo Championships
conducted by the Philippine
Taekwondo Association Regional
Committee held at the
Pagudpud Cultural and Sports
Complex recently.
Even in the field of agriculture,
the Kawayan Biofuel presented
by MMSU in the national
research conference won in the
competition.
As a result, MMSU is the
number three top performing institution
in the Philippines, manifested
by the scholastic standing
of students and the meritorious
passing of licensure examinees
in their respective fields of
endeavors.
*** - THE ILOCOS TIMES

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Ummm, hey there - I think you should follow the rules dito sa SSC. When posting articles - please include links. Sa photos naman, include mo yung source ng photo at kung sino kumuha. Thanks. I've seen some of the photos you posted from flickr kasi eh.

http://images.inquirer.net/media/showbizandstyle/lifestyle/lifestyle/images/pic-12240557480727.jpg

By Cristina Arzadon (http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/lifestyle/lifestyle/view_article.php?article_id=108572)
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 05:15am (Mla time) 12/24/2007

SAN NICOLAS, Ilocos Norte―The ancient art of terra-cotta pottery in this northern town has been given a facelift with the revival of the lowly banga (cooking pot), which has become an icon of Ilocano heritage and traditional occupation that dates back to the turn of the 19th century.

The Ilocos terra-cotta manufacturing had been largely dismissed as a vanishing industry until the community began noticing the historical value of pottery as an enduring monument to the handmade craft that now symbolizes San Nicolas’ heritage.

There could not have been a better way of preserving San Nicolas traditional industry than paying tribute to the ancient craft through the Rang-ay ti Damilian, a pottery festival on the occasion of the town’s feast later this month.

Mayor Alfredo Valdez is largely credited for reviving the town’s cottage industry through the festival as an innovative approach to keeping the craft alive.

Valdez, whose family runs the 365 Plaza, the biggest commercial strip in San Nicolas, commissioned the town’s potters to produce the bricks for the commercial complex.

He has made it a policy for every construction project in his town to include bricks in the building’s materials to help generate income for San Nicolas potters.

Ilocos churches

The other enduring symbol of terra cotta is still plastered across Ilocos Norte with the presence of majestic churches built out of bricks during the latter part of the 19th century.

Oral history says the bricks that built these churches came from the kilns of San Nicolas.

The Ilocos Norte Travel Guidebook, for instance, chronicled that four brick ovens were built in the town by the end of the Spanish era, giving rise to a belief that San Nicolas folk provided the bricks that were used in building turn-of-the-century Ilocos churches.

Brick-manufacturing, to this day, is regarded as Ilocos Norte’s thriving ancient industry. One of the more recent historical buildings San Nicolas’ artisans take pride in is the posh Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel in the seaside village of Calayab in Laoag City.

President Ferdinand Marcos had the brick hotel built in 1983 to accommodate guests in time for the wedding of his youngest daughter, Irene, to businessman Gregorio Araneta III.

First Lady Imelda Marcos supposedly commissioned an entire village of potters in San Nicolas to produce bricks for the 200-plus-room hotel.

Amancia Bernardo, then a high-school freshman, was among those who made the bricks used at the hotel. Now 40, Bernardo remains a potter in probably the biggest pottery industry in San Nicolas today.

Tribute

The Rangcapan siblings―Violeta, Josephina and Virgilio―set up the pottery business as a tribute to their mother, Paulina, who taught them the craft of pot-making.

Nana Pa-ul started producing pots when she was barely 10 years old, having grown to a family of potters.

Now 76, Nana Pa-ul, recognized as an outstanding San Nicolense in 2006, is still doing what she does best: molding and shaping cooking pots.

Josephina said her mother starts the day early at the shop and could produce over 100 small cooking pots by the end of the day.
“Her domain is cooking pots. The younger ones do not have the patience to produce pots because it demands special care and tough labor, like nurturing a baby,” she said.

Located in the village of Barabar, the manufacturing area does not have any signage, which is typical to a cottage industry.

But motorists cruising along the San Nicolas-Dingras road in eastern Ilocos Norte could not miss them: Freshly baked red-coated earthenware line the road while hundreds of newly molded pots spill to the sugarcane fields around the more than 200-sq m lot.

Iron sheets protect at least 16 potters from the searing Ilocos sun as they work using handmade molding wheels.

To the Rangcapan siblings, pottery had been just a means to feed their families, until their products got the attention of neurosurgeon Joven Cuanang, medical director at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City.

Cuanang, a native of Batac City, owns the Sitio Remedios beach resort where a heritage village sits. The resort has become a tourist magnet in Currimao town.

It was Cuanang who invited Pagadian artist and sculptor Mark Valenzuela to provide a workshop for San Nicolas potters so they could acquire new techniques in terra-cotta pottery. Cuanang later commissioned Valenzuela to create terra-cotta pieces that would be installed in his resort.

The two met through Ilocos Norte tourism officer Rene Guatlo during the “Dula sa Lapuk” traveling terra-cotta exhibit at the Cultural Center of the Philippines in 2005.

Valenzuela, 27, a painter, has earned his mark in terra-cotta making since he started using clay as a medium in 2004.

Those in the terra-cotta business had branded him a “maverick artist” because of his meteoric rise as a sculptor. He has mounted a solo exhibit in Metro Manila and is set to display his creations in Singapore next year.

Products

San Nicolas’ pottery pieces, which range from cooking and flower pots, water jars, stoves, well casings, to roof tiles and bricks, are more functional than decorative, leaving Valenzuela, who worked with another sculptor, Sandy Coberos, from Sagay, Negros Occidental, in providing new techniques for the potters during the workshops.

“I agreed to do the workshop with them because I was looking forward to an exchange of techniques,” he said.

He said Ilocos clay was better than the type they used in Dumaguete. “It does not easily crack even when exposed to air or sunlight. In Dumaguete, we wrap our clay with plastic to keep the air, and we keep them from the sun,” he said.

The workshop products will be on display at the town hall during the Damili festival on Dec. 28.

Potter Pablo Capati III, who studied pottery in Japan and California, was invited to open the exhibit with Valenzuela as curator.

Hi guys, naragsak nga paskua kadakayo amin!

Can i post some pix here of laoag?

Thanks.

Im sharing some of the pix i took just recently here in Laoag City.
(Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/roger633/)

Here they are:

Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol taken from the Aurora Park.
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Aurora Park, Laoag City (Infront of the Provincial Capitol)
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^^

Street Scene in Laoag... the only traffic light in the city.

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(Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/roger633/)

:) Parang di relevant dito... pero i think these may add color to this thread :)
Pumili na kayo guys, sino sa tingin nyo ang mananalo :lol:

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Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/roger633/

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:applause::applause::applause::applause::applause:

Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/roger633/

Feature: Fresh hopes in 2008 for Ilocos Norte

by Cristina Arzadon

San Fernando City, La Union (9 January) -- Everyone is hopeful that 2008 would bring fresh beginnings, a healthy economy, improved governance and better living conditions.

Ilocos Norte will continue to project itself as the "center of clean energy" in Southeast Asia with the projected putting up of more wind farms in the wind-swept northern towns of Pagudpud and Burgos.

The operation of the Bangui wind mills, owned and operated by the Northwind Power Development Corporation, since 2006 has paved the way for more investment prospects for Ilocos Norte including its capital city of Laoag.

The province's infant city of Batac is expected to stir more business opportunities and could rival Laoag in terms of infrastructure and commercial ventures.

But the biggest commercial strip, by far, in the province has been in operation in 2007 in San Nicolas town. Known as the 365 Plaza, the business center, housing various shops, restaurants and internet café, is merely an initial phase of the project. Works are under way for the construction of a bigger mall which would sit next to the center.

Ilocos Norte anchor their development goals in the Regional Development Council's "8 by '08 " targets for Region I namely: job creation; stable cost of living; stable peso; more investments; pro-poor education; health care, housing and hunger mitigation; green Philippines and strong anti-terror.

The RDC-Region I has already endorsed the following projects for Ilocos Norte: the construction of the 40-MW wind farm in Pagudpud; development of the Japan Bank International Cooperation-assisted Northern Luzon Wind Power Project in Burgos town and the upgrading of Tomato Paste Processing Plant of the Northern Foods Corporation in Sarrat town with a funding requirement of P195 million.

Laoag City is the new home of a string of housing units, developed by the Robinson Homes Inc., which is sitting on a more than 50,000 square meter-lot near the Laoag International Airport.

Laoag Mayor Michael Fariñas said that the entry of Robinson's group in the city would attract more investors to pour their capital to Laoag.

Fariñas is hopeful that the SM mall chain would come marching next after their initial negotiations with the mall owners. (PIA Ilocos Norte (http://www.pia.gov.ph/default.asp?m=12&fi=p080109.htm&no=75))

Laoag International Airport
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/laoaginternationalairport.jpg

Laoag's Sinking Bell Tower
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/DSC05243.jpg

:) Parang di relevant dito... pero i think these may add color to this thread :)
Pumili na kayo guys, sino sa tingin nyo ang mananalo :lol:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2406/2139019380_cb3d7d4feb_m.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2136/2138241519_e0aff745e7_m.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2016/2139023342_65b4d7af25_m.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2338/2139025608_97f5f403e2_m.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2041/2139027816_b1ffcb1602_m.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2064/2138249167_1eee579d9d_m.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2111/2138251823_ebbfc91750_m.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2413/2138254213_d95ecaae30_m.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2174/2138255935_ec9aa995cc_m.jpg

Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/roger633/

the 3rd one is the best one

ganda ng airport! operational ba yan?

Just curious....how many here in the forum are Ilocanos and/or of Ilocano descent? Not only Norte and Sur, but Ilocano speaking too? :dunno:

Ilocano here from La Union...

ganda ng airport! operational ba yan?

Yup, its operational. Flights ng PAL, Cebu-Pacific, Asian Spirit(meron pa ba?) at some flights from Taiwan and China.

The new building is not yet operational. Di pa kasi tapos. Lahat na Arrival operations will be transferred to the new terminal building pag tapos na. The old terminal(leftmost) will be for Departure operations na lang.

Laoag City Aerial
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/laoagaerialsmall.jpg

Laoag International Airport - you can see Laoag's built-up area sa horizon ng pic. Middle part.
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/laoagairportaerialsmall.jpg

Malacañan of the North
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/malacananofthenorthsmall.jpg
Photos by amchoor (http://flickr.com/photos/11884944@N07/) from flickr.com

Malacañan of the North
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/malacananofthenorthsmall.jpg
Photos by amchoor (http://flickr.com/photos/11884944@N07/) from flickr.com

Ganda ng view dyan sa Paoay Lake! Nag field trip kami sa Malacañang of the North nung HS ako. :):)

Ganda ng view dyan sa Paoay Lake! Nag field trip kami sa Malacañang of the North nung HS ako. :):)

nung hskul din kami, nagtour kami diyan. ganda! medyo napapabayaan nga lang.

I think Malacañan of the North is undergoing renovations. Parang nasabi yata yung ng magkapatid na Bongbong at Imee from a recent interview.

nung hskul din kami, nagtour kami diyan. ganda! medyo napapabayaan nga lang.

Ang layo nga ng narating namin ha! Sa Dagupan City kasi ako nag highschool. Usually sa Metro Manila or CALABARZON fieldtrip namin. Pero nung nag Ilocos tour kami, grabe almost 7 1/2 hrs pauwi Laoag to Dagupan. Manila kasi 4 hrs lang. Naka chartered Fariñas Bus naman kami kaya OK lang, comfortable kami sa byahe. :):)

medyo napapabayaan nga lang.
Yeah parang magigiba na nga yung dingding dati! :lol:

I think Malacañan of the North is undergoing renovations. Parang nasabi yata yung ng magkapatid na Bongbong at Imee from a recent interview.
Buti naman inaayos na nila, tourist spot pa naman. Marcos property pa ba to or under PCGG na?

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2045/2138043449_553251b859.jpg?v=0

^^ Fountain at the Aurora Park, Laoag City with the Marcos Hall of Justice in the background.

source: flickr.com

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2366/2138819916_69e6224e4e.jpg?v=0


^^ Eastern side of the Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol, Laoag City.


Flickr find

^^ nagadu iti cuarta dagita marcos, di dala maipaistimaren apo. :cheers:

horse shoe ba talaga shape ng paoay lake?

Yup, its operational. Flights ng PAL, Cebu-Pacific, Asian Spirit(meron pa ba?) at some flights from Taiwan and China.

The new building is not yet operational. Di pa kasi tapos. Lahat na Arrival operations will be transferred to the new terminal building pag tapos na. The old terminal(leftmost) will be for Departure operations na lang.

Buti naman well maintained yaang Laoag International airport. I like how it is designed, not the typical airport type....

Cebu Pacific gets new short-haul plane

Philippine Daily Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines -- Low-cost carrier Cebu Pacific Air on Tuesday received the first of a $330-million order of 18 ATR 72-500 turboprop aircraft, which the airline intends to use for short-haul flights to the country’s prime vacation spots.

Already painted in Cebu Pacific’s green-and-yellow colors, the ATR arrived at 2 p.m. on Tuesday from Toulouse, France, the initial delivery in the airline’s ongoing fleet expansion.

The ATR deliveries to Cebu Pacific will continue by batches until 2009.

“We continue to have the newest and youngest fleet in the Philippines with the delivery of our first ATR aircraft. We expect to take delivery of another five ATRs from March to December this year,” Cebu Pacific spokesperson Candice Iyog said in a statement.

“Our fleet expansion with the ATR aircraft is a critical step to achieving our goal of bringing air travel closer to more Filipinos,” she said.

The 72-seater aircraft will be used for flights to Caticlan, the gateway to the Boracay resort island. The flight to Boracay via ATR is estimated to take 50 minutes.

The acquisition of the ATR fleet is also expected to enable Cebu Pacific to operate daily hour-long flights to Laoag in the north, where Cebu Pacific currently flies three times a week.

Both services will be launched on February 29.

“We are honored with this first introduction in such an important and strategic market,” said ATR CEO Stéphane Mayer in a statement.

“ATR is consolidating its strong leadership position in Asia, which represents more than 60 percent of our new orders since the recovery of the turboprop market in 2005. With their ability to land on short runways, their reliability and their ease of maintenance, the ATR aircraft will bring an optimal service to Cebu Pacific,” he said.

Cebu Pacific is also expecting delivery of four brand-new Airbus A320 planes this year, bring to 19 the fleet of jets that it uses for domestic and Asian regional services. The airline flies to 21 domestic destinations and 12 Asian cities.

http://business.inquirer.net/money/breakingnews/view/20080220-120019/Cebu-Pacific-gets-new-short-haul-plane

PAGUDPUD GEARS UP FOR TOURIST INFLUX THRU SKILLS TRAININGS

Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte, recognized as the Top Asian Beach by Sunday Herald Sun of Melbourne, Australia and also selected by Manila Bulletin as the best summer beach destination was the venue of recently concluded trainings entitled First Aid, Basic Life Support and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation. LGU employees and resort owners underwent a four day training conducted by the Philippine National Red Cross, Ilocos Norte Chapter in cooperation with the Department of Tourism Regional Office 1 and the LGU of Pagudpud.

The trainings inculcated in the participants the value of volunteerism and the importance of the training in boosting the image of Pagudpud as a safe destination.

Sponsored by municipal government led by Mayor Marlon Sales and the Department of Tourism R1 headed by Director Martin Valera, the trainings taught the participants how to apply basic life saving skills on infants, children and adults, including first aid. They were given tips on making use of what’s available on the accident scene or in short, resourcefulness. The first day was spent on lectures about the Red Cross, definition and objectives of First Aid, equipments and supplies and the characteristics of a good first aider. Master Trainor Haydee Manalili and Senior trainors Mr. Dale Bonoan and Mr. Ramon de Leon tackled together the topics from Day 1 to 4. The trainors demonstrated triangular bandage folding, how to do cravats and square knots together with cleaning and disinfecting procedures which is very essential. Guidance in giving emergency care, patient handling such as the different kinds of carries was part of the practical exercises.

On the second day, topics included wound, poisoning and bone injury treatments. Demonstrations on the use of bandages, spine board and the right way of responding to emergencies commonly experienced in resorts were welcomed by the participants. On the third day, guidelines on giving emergency care were taken up including prevention of disease transmission. The trainors also presented ways of respiratory arrest and rescue breathing from causes to techniques. More demos on foreign body airway extraction such as Heimlich maneuver were shown to the attendees. On the final day, Assistant Regional Director Melchito Castro of the Office of Civil Defense, gave a short presentation on the “Philippine Disaster Management System”. This is to make the participants aware of calamities and their role as members of the community. The second topic for the day was cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The results of these trainings has to be assessed, thus in the afternoon, an evaluation test was given composed of skills and written exams. The graduates were given each a certificate giving them the passage to be part of the Lifeguard training this February to be held in Pagudpud.

BUT why Pagudpud? That question was inevitably asked every time people—especially those who are strangers to the Ilocos Region—heard about the Department of Tourism’s regular conduct of skills trainings in the area.

Yet, whatever reservations one may have on Pagudpud’s tourism potential would quickly vanish after a brief visit to this town. Its unspoiled beaches along the coasts of Saud and Maira-Ira are the best— these are enough reason to endure a 10-hour bus ride from Manila. The winding two-kilometer Patapat road, etched on the north Cordillera Mountains about 200 feet above sea level, is the best place to watch the sun rise and set.

Townsfolk believe that Saud, whose 1.5 kilometer stretch of fine white sand can rival Aklan’s famous Boracay beach, is guarded by the queen of mermaids. Legend has it that the queen of mermaids once disguised herself as a poor old woman begging for something to eat. It was only a local girl who took pity on her and gave her food and water.

The story of how Pagudpud got its name is one funny tale that townsfolk love to tell. Decades ago, the story goes: Pagudpud was a part of the town of Bangui. One day, a peddler from Batangas came to town and asked one of the residents for food and water. When he asked in Ilocano where he had come from, the Batangueno replied: “Ako’y uhaw na uhaw at pagod na pagod. Ang sapatos ko po ay pudpod.” Everyone who heard what the Batangueno said hardly understood it, but kept on repeating it nevertheless. And so, the story continues, when a Bicolano came and asked what was the name of the place, the townsfolk (who again did not understand what the Bicolano said) merely repeated the Batangueno’s reply. The confused Bicolano interpreted what he had heard as “Pagud-Pudpod.” Since then, the town which came to be separated from Bangui was known as Pagudpud.

Townsfolk in Pagudpud rely on agriculture and fishing as their main sources of livelihood. Women help their husbands augment the townsfolk’s income, thru handicraft.

Based on preliminary studies made by the DOT, the development of the town’s tourism areas entice the East Asian market to stay longer in the region. At present, Taiwanese tourists concentrate in Laoag, which is only an hour’s drive away from Pagudpud.

Today, visitors to Pagudpud can be housed at various resorts and guests may find suitable accommodations at Homestays. The municipal government has a public beach in Saud with sheds and tent area for low-budget tourists. New festivals being celebrated are the SANIKLAD scheduled every summer and the Kurarapnit in December.

http://ilocos.net.ph/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=77&Itemid=1

Monday, February 25, 2008
Ilocos Norte athletes eye 9th regional sports championship


LINGAYEN -- The Ilocos Norte delegates in the Ilocos Region Athletic Association (IRAA) Meet 2008 came to Pangasinan with the challenge on their shoulders of getting the ninth consecutive over-all championship.

Pangasinan I Schools Division, the host division, on the other hand, is hoping to put a halt to Ilocos Norte Schools Division's supremacy in the IRAA.

"We're praying our athletes will perform well," said Pangasinan I Schools Division superintendent Alma Ruby Torio.

"(Pangasinan) Governor Amado Espino Jr. gave all-out support to our athletes from food to other things they need. The athletes were trained longer than in the past years," she added.

Ilocos Norte Schools Division Superintendent Araceli Pastor said their delegation is composed of 732 officials and athletes. Pangasinan I has 600.

During last year's IRAA held in San Carlos City, Ilocos Norte recorded 274.5 points in the elementary level. Pangasinan 1 had 176.5 points while Pangasinan 2 earned 167 points.

In the secondary level, Ilocos Norte placed first followed by Pangasinan II Schools Division and Pangasinan 1.

The Laoag City delegates were adjudged as the "Most Disciplined Delegation" while Dagupan City was chosen as the "Cleanest Delegation."

Pastor said maintaining the over-all championship is a big challenge for them especially so as many of their IRAA veteran athletes have already graduated.

"And now we are starting again with a new breed. That's why we say this is a challenge to all of us if the younger breed now can deliver," Pastor remarked.

The other schools divisions competing in the Iraa 2008 are that of the cities of Dagupan, Alaminos, Urdaneta and San Carlos in Pangasinan; San Fernando in La Union; and Vigan, Candon and Laoag in Ilocos Sur.

Competition in the different sporting events started last Sunday. Games will be until Friday. (LCMY/Sunnex)

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/pan/2008/02/25/news/ilocos.norte.athletes.eye.9th.regional.sports.championship.html

Hi all, I am new here although I have been a lurker for sometime and now I finally decided to join in. Originally from Norte and glad to see all these beautiful pictures on here. Ilocos Norte really has come a long way.

Why Pagudpud is good

Sunday, February 24, 2008
The Philippine Star

Experience a new discovery up north called Kapuluan Vista Resort. It is a surprising escape for those looking for adventure or those who simply want to enjoy reading a book on a white-sand beach. Quietly nestled amid three mountains and the sea, Kapuluan Vista Resort offers the perfect mix of natural surroundings making it an excellent place for snorkeling, swimming, diving, surfing, hiking and enjoying nice long walks along endless, expansive beaches.

Style, distinction, warmth and intimacy are the key elements in the architecture and design of Kapuluan Vista. The owners wanted to create a very different property. Their vision became reality when architects Gian “Buji” Libarnes and Kelvin de Chavez worked their magic. They united traditional architecture with the comfort and luxury of modernism without losing the personality of the local community. The expression of theme is created with white walls, white linen and cultural and wooden accents giving the place a tranquil ambiance.

The food is a must-try. Whether you are craving Filipino cuisine or something with a western flair, their meals will tickle your palate. Fresh vegetables and herbs picked from their organic garden, high-quality ingredients and the all-natural flavorings give their menu a healthy kick. This is an important factor in the wholesome lifestyle that Kapuluan Vista promotes.

After pampering yourself with blissful sleep, delicious and healthy dining, good company and enough recreational activities to make up for days missed in the gym, you will see why Kapuluan Vista Resort was awarded “The Most Innovative Beach Resort in Northern Philippines.”

This dream resort came true when Mike and Alma Oida moved back to their motherland to pursue a business embracing what they love — surfing, relaxation, nature and good food. Mike and Alma were born in the Philippines but raised in California.

They met seven years ago while working together at Ikea in San Diego. I guess you can say that surfing was the key element that brought them back to the Philippines. When Mike and Alma met, Alma was completely clueless about the whole surfing lifestyle and how it would affect her life. Sure enough, Mike taught Alma to surf and her life was altered overnight. Her prior opinion about the Philippines, let alone moving back, dramatically changed after a four-month surf trip together.

Inspired by an article in a surf magazine, Mike decided to explore the potential of his own country by taking a surf trip. Mike and Alma were hooked. After returning to California, they decided to choose between the stressful, fast-paced lifestyle of the US, or the laid-back lifestyle of a pristine location back home. It took only a few seconds to answer the question. Eight months later, they were back on the islands, finding their own corner of paradise. Two years and lots of surf trips later, they came across Pagudpud by chance, fell in love, built Kapuluan Vista, got married in the resort and are now working and raising their two-year-old daughter in that paradise.

In the short time sine opening the resort, its waves and spectacular scenery have attracted the attention of several mainstream international surfing publications such as Surfer Magazine (US), Surfers’ Path (UK) and Kiwi Surf (New Zealand). Recently they played host to the Sports Unlimited crew and Mike and Alma even gave Mark Nelson and Dyan Castillejo private surf lessons in front of their resort.

http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Travel&p=49&type=2&sec=48

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/365center06.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/365center02.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/365center01.jpg

The entrance / facade of this mall looks to to me like those malls in the states. I hope to shop here someday.

By the way, can anyone share some updates on the construction of the Ilocos Norte Hotel & Convention Center? Did they break ground or is this still on the drawing boards?

Tapos na daw or patapos na.

The last time I was in Ilocos was in '05 (after 10 years overseas) & took some pictures whenever I could.

I think this is where PBA games are held when it goes to Laoag: Laoag Sports Complex? (http://ilocosnortenienne.com/gallery/ilocos_norte/?popim=1&lmn=1)

This is a view of the Wind Mills from the Bangui Viewdeck along the road approaching Baruyen: Bangui Wind Mills (http://ilocosnortenienne.com/gallery/ilocos_norte/?popim=3&lmn=1)

I hope to see some photos of the Convention Center soon.

Ilocos Norte tops Iraa

LINGAYEN -- They traveled almost seven hours from Ilocos Norte to this town to protect and defend their supremacy in the Ilocos Region Athletic Association (Iraa) annual meet.

The 732 Ilocos Norte delegations composed of athletes, coaches, and officials led by Ilocos Norte Schools Superintendent Araceli Pastor went home victorious as they again reigned for the ninth consecutive years.

The Iraa 2008 was held at the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center here from February 24 to 29.

The overall ranking and total points are as follows: Ilocos Norte - 695.9; Pangasinan 2 - 486; La Union - 324.5; Pangasinan 1 - 169.4; Dagupan City - 126.5; Alaminos City - 43.5; San Fernando City - 36.67; Vigan City - 34.5; and Urdaneta City - 29.9.

For the special awards, Laoag City was again adjudged as "Most Disciplined Delegation" while La Union who stayed Domalandan Elementary School was chosen as the "Cleanest Delegation."

Pastor credits their victory to the sports program institutionalized by Ilocos Norte Governor Michael Keon. This, he introduced nine years ago when he became Board Member and Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. as then the governor.

Keon was the former head of Project: Gintong Alay, which gained prominence Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) sports meet during the incumbency of the late president Ferdinand Marcos.

"Some of our Iraa veterans have graduated and now we are starting with a new breed. This is a challenge to all of us if the younger breed now can deliver," Pastor said.

In his message at the opening program last Sunday, Pangasinan Governor Amado Espino Jr. said victory of Pangasinan cannot be expected, yet, as there are five schools divisions in the province. These are Pangasinan 1, Pangasinan 2, San Carlos City, Alaminos City, and Urdaneta City (Dagupan City is an independent city).

But with the sports program the Provincial Government is developing, he remarked, Pangasinan as a whole will be very competitive in two to three year's time.

Next year's Iraa will be hosted by Dagupan City.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/pan/2008/03/02/sports/ilocos.norte.tops.iraa.html

Oopppps! They did it again???!!!! :lol:
Congrats!!!

I think that is what they call - DYNASTY :lol:

This is a video of an actual ATV ride at Fort Ilocandia (click image for pop-up video). The background audio maybe annoying to some so don't say I didn't warn you :)

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj111/inol_bucket/FIRC01.jpg (http://ilocosnortenienne.com/gallery/ilocos_norte/?popim=2&lmn=1)

The terrain is kinda flat - I guess they made this with the novice ATV riders in mind. FIRC also offers Horseback Riding, (Rifle) Shooting Range and a golf driving range.

I had a contact who works there so I got a bucketful of golf balls, hybrid driver and #4 irons all for free (no- I didn't get to take the clubs home with me :) ). I don't know how much they charge for one bucket but it should be reasonable.

I can't wait to go back...

Homestay facilities mushroom in scenic Pagudpud

By Cristina Arzadon
Philippine Daily Inquirer


PAGUDPUD, Ilocos Norte – In 1995, when officials of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, introduced the idea of opening private homes as alternative accommodations, only Juanita Rapul responded and opened her doors to become the first homestay facility in the seaside village of Saud.

The homestay program is a joint effort of the municipal government and the Department of Tourism, which encourages homeowners to offer accommodation and other tourism-related services for a fee in areas lacking in commercial resorts.

Mayor Marlon Sales, a former councilor, recalled that the villagers then were not receptive to the idea because no one knew how to handle visitors staying over. “The residents also probably saw it as an intrusion into their private homes,” he said.

Back then, only privately owned resorts, bamboo kiosks and inns edged the shores as Pagudpud – with its pristine beaches and a stretch of white, soft and powdery sand – was one of the province’s best kept secrets.

But as the town became known as an idyllic destination to those who worship the sea, homestay facilities began mushrooming, inspired by the steady stream of local and foreign tourists who were left with nowhere to stay during peak season.

Spillover

Martin Valera, DOT regional director, said the idea of opening homestay areas emerged from the demand of tourists confronted with fully occupied resorts and hotels.

“Our homestays have become such a byword among tourists that they ask bookings first in these villages before asking for hotels,” he said. Today, 35 homestay facilities have been accredited by the DOT (about 20 operate without DOT accreditation) and are spread in four coastal villages. They outnumber the 25 resort hotels.

The facilities are found mostly in Saud and in the villages of Burayoc, Balaoi and Poblacion.

Homestay structures are now mostly concrete, while some are made of wood and capped by anahaw leaves. Most owners maintain separate quarters from the guesthouse.

The owners are given more promotional support because they do not have a marketing arm, which resort hotels readily have, Valera said.

Most maintain up to three guest rooms and charge P250 per person a day or P2,500 a day for groups or families of more than 10 members who want to rent the entire house. Clients may cook their own food or ask the host family to cook for them.

Jose Morata, municipal tourism officer, said an added value in staying in these facilities was the opportunity to experience Ilocano living and taste Ilocano dishes, such as the pinakbet and inabraw (vegetable broth).

Unspoiled sights

“What we offer is wellness and rejuvenating tourism. We do not have restaurants and bars that big cities have,” Morata said. “But we offer unlimited natural sights that tourists can enjoy for free.”

The town is promoting diving and surfing sites along the coasts of Balaoi and Pasaleng, which boast of huge swells. Residents recently discovered dolphins frolicking along the Pasaleng coast. Dolphin watching is best from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.

Tour packages with guides are available. These include mountain trekking, cave visits and diving in waterfalls.

The DOT and the local government have sponsored a water rescue and safety training among lifeguards in preparation for the drove of tourists heading to Pagudpud during the Lenten break and throughout summer.

The local government has started drawing out a plan in handling the entry of investors who have started proposing to develop commercial strips along the beach. Based on a zoning ordinance, structures must not be taller than the average height of coconut trees and must be built 30 meters from the shoreline.

Sales said he would encourage residents to open their own homestay facilities and cash in on the growing popularity of the beaches. “This is our way of helping provide income opportunities other than their traditional mode of earning income from fishing and farming,” he said.

The residents also develop their entrepreneurial skills because they learn to provide tourist demands from food, transport services, souvenir items to tour guiding, he said.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/regions/view/20080311-124145/Homestay-facilities-mushroom-in-scenic-Pagudpud

P100M allocated for dam, other projects in Ilocos Norte


The Agriculture department said Wednesday a P100-million budget for the improvement of the Madongan Dam project in Ilocos Norte has been ordered released, to help raise crop harvests in the province by 10%, apart from other interventions in one of the country’s top five crop-producing regions.

Studies show that the development of the dam will raise farm production in Ilocos Norte’s irrigated lands by 10%, the department said in a statement.

Agriculture Secretary Arthur C. Yap also committed P4 million for an irrigation project in Paoay town, and the delivery of 10 shredders, 10 flatbed dryers. In 11 other municipalities, 10 shallow tube wells will be built.

"We cannot just ask Ilocos Norte to increase its corn production by 10% this year without giving its farmers the support they need to attain this goal," Mr. Yap was quoted as saying.

The Ilocos region is a top producer of both rice and corn, the latter supplied as feeds to hog raisers in Central Luzon.

So far, the country has 1.413 million hectares of irrigated lands, representing less than half of the country’s total irrigable lands. — Eric B. Dorente, BusinessWorld

hi guys..how much is the fare from Laoag to Vigan? thnx

I was in Laoag recently... a few pics taken from my trip.

http://images.crazy4burgers.multiply.com/image/4/photos/3/400x400/1/Photo0459%20%5B640x480%5D.jpg?et=AbL34vz5O5uxa6zBh2YkOA&nmid=88413209

http://images.crazy4burgers.multiply.com/image/3/photos/3/400x400/4/Photo0465%20%5B640x480%5D.jpg?et=NhaTKJc%2CxZMbBZOA%2BELBeQ&nmid=88413209

http://images.crazy4burgers.multiply.com/image/3/photos/3/400x400/6/Photo0470%20%5B640x480%5D.jpg?et=%2CeNELigkBa%2C8QqmiF5WUpQ&nmid=88413209

http://images.crazy4burgers.multiply.com/image/3/photos/3/400x400/8/Photo0472%20%5B640x480%5D.jpg?et=iFuPy0fCNHjdyEswU4I%2CWQ&nmid=88413209

http://images.crazy4burgers.multiply.com/image/3/photos/3/400x400/9/Photo0473%20%5B640x480%5D.jpg?et=mI2pC5IKFbI8u4dFPT9qEg&nmid=88413209

http://images.crazy4burgers.multiply.com/image/3/photos/3/400x400/11/Photo0475%20%5B640x480%5D.jpg?et=z0Vk9j2GHx8AfphNY0CfcA&nmid=88413209

http://images.crazy4burgers.multiply.com/image/3/photos/3/400x400/14/Photo0478%20%5B640x480%5D.jpg?et=kpGQUmrm8cE5vs14ti0s1g&nmid=88413209

I was in Laoag recently... a few pics taken from my trip.

http://images.crazy4burgers.multiply.com/image/3/photos/3/400x400/4/Photo0465%20%5B640x480%5D.jpg?et=NhaTKJc%2CxZMbBZOA%2BELBeQ&nmid=88413209


Let me guess, this one is in Sarrat Town, right?

Let me guess, this one is in Sarrat Town, right?

Yup. you are right. That one is from Sarrat.

Seaweed gatherers in Ilocos Norte need gov’t help

By Rudy A. Fernandez
Wednesday, April 2, 2008

BATAC, Ilocos Norte – Seaweed gatherers in coastal towns in this province need assistance to overcome the problems besetting them.

The support they need are mostly on technical and socio-economic aspects, notably on gathering, postharvest processing, and marketing their seaweed harvest.

The seaweed gatherers, according to a group of researchers of the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), lack “gathering paraphernalia such as baskets, gloves, and bancas” as well as postharvest facilities such as for drying.

They also noted an inefficient marketing and pricing system for local seaweeds.

The MMSU, currently headed by president Dr. Miriam Pascua, is a six-campus university in Ilocos Norte whose main campus is located in this newly created city.

The researchers documented their findings on the status of the seaweed industry in three Ilocos Norte towns along the China Sea in a scientific report titled “Edible seaweeds in Ilocos Norte: Food preparations, other local uses, and market potential.”

They presented their report at the 2008 National Aquatic and Resources Research and Development System conference sponsored recently by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and Development (DOST-PCAMRD) in Los Baños, Laguna.

The study aimed to determine the species of seaweeds gathered for food and other uses, and their market potentials.

Ilocos Norte’s seaweed industry is confined to gathering. Commercial culture is not practiced.

As a local industry, it has become a significant means of livelihood and a source of additional income to many Ilocanos.

In the study, the MMSU researchers interviewed 52 seaweed gatherers and vendors in the towns of Currimao, Burgos, and Pagudpud.

Most of the respondents were young (aged 41 to 50), female (69 percent), and married (73 percent). Most of them finished elementary education.

Majority of the respondents have been engaged in seaweed gathering for some time with a minimal income insufficient to meet their basic needs.

There are 22 genera of seaweeds belonging to green, brown, and red algae that are used as food in Ilocos Norte. Food preparations are in form of salad, vegetables for viand, dessert, and pickles.

Other uses of seaweed include medicine, fertilizer, and insect repellant.

The MMSU researchers recommended that the seaweed gatherers be encouraged to develop other food products from seaweeds to help stabilize their livelihood activities.

The current market price of seaweeds ranges from P50 to P3,000 per kilo. The cheapest is the seaweed genera Hydroclathrus, locally known as balballulang, and the most expensive, the Porphyra or gamet, which fetches up to P3,000 per kilo.

Fresh and dried seaweeds are sold in public markets, the biggest of which is the one in Laoag City. Ilocano balikbayans are also known to bring their favorite seaweed abroad.

“An appropriate packaging material for processed seaweed should be introduced to the seaweed gatherers to ensure high product quality and long shelf life and in turn generate market competitiveness,” the MMSU researchers said.

As it is, sun drying is the only postharvest processing employed by the gatherers to extend the shelf life of seaweeds.

The researchers said the government should launch a program to implement rules and regulations on the harvest of seaweeds in order not to deplete seaweed stock.

http://www.philstar.com/archives.php?aid=2008040138&type=2

:wave:

just to inform you guys

APRIL 2008 issue of FOOD Magazine


http://i27.tinypic.com/2qwiyro.jpg

here's the list of this year's aliwan contingents.


1. Pakalog sa pasig
2. pangisdaan - navotas
3. panagbenga - baguio
4. Lang-ay - bontoc
5. Pamulinawen - laoag ****
6. Gakit - Angadanan, isabela
7. Desposorio - hagonoy bulacan
8. boling boling - catanauan quezon
9. Peñafrancia voyadores and pilgrims festival - naga
10. pintaflores - san carlos ****
11. saad - Leganes
12 Dinagyang - iloilo ****
13. Halad - midsayap ****
14. Sinulog - cebu city ****
15. Sinulog sa Carmen - Carmen, cebu ****
16. Alikaraw - hilongos Leyte ****
17 Buyogan - Abuyog Leyte ****
18 Bakhawan - Zamboanga Sibugay
19. Shariff Kabunsuan festival - Cotabato City
20. Meguyaya - Upi, Shariff Kabunsuan ****
21. Kang'Gelal - Sultan Kudarat
22. Buklod - Parang Maguindanao
23. Kalilintad - Mamasapano, Maguindanao
24. Lami Lamihan - Lamitan Basilan


**** -- my bets to land in the top 10.
For the latest Aliwan Fiesta news go to http://www.AliwanFiesta.info

Batac eyed as Ilocos Norte's rice granary

NARVACAN, Ilocos Sur – Nearby Ilocos Norte province is looking at the newly designated City of Batac as its rice granary.

Batac Councilor Bernan Marders said that the city is the ideal area to be the rice storehouse of the province not only for its strategic location but also because it houses one of the branches of PhilRice.

Marders said that the province has no rice shortage so far but he said that it is more prudent to prepare for the future.

He called on residents of Batac to act as the province's trader and host Ilocos Norte's stock of rice. Nearby Dingras town is incidentally the main producer of rice in the province. Other main rice-producing towns in Ilocos Norte are Solsona, Bacarra and the cities of Laoag and Batac. All these towns are near Batac.

Under Marders' proposal, various barangays (villages) of Batac would be buying rice not only within the town but also in the other towns of the province. He said that if the provincial government would be in charge of the distribution and storage of rice, the poorest of the poor in Ilocos Norte would be able to procure rice.

In 1999, the National Tobacco Administration turned over part of its Research and Development complex in Batac to the PhilRice. That station in Batac became the center for dryland agriculture R&D focusing on the improvement of rice-based cropping systems in semi-arid areas and development of on-farm water conservation and storage techniques.

Production of rice in Ilocos Norte rose from 132,818 metric tons in 2002 to 208,570 MT in 2003 and 211,932 MT in 2004. Demand for rice in Ilocos Norte is slightly less than 70,000 MT in 2004 so there were surplus of over 140,000 MT, which meant that the province could produce three times its demand for rice. - GMANews.TV

http://www.gmanews.tv/story/89214/Batac-eyed-as-Ilocos-Nortes-rice-granary

Hail falls on Ilocos Norte town (http://www.gmanews.tv/story/90026/Hail-falls-on-Ilocos-Norte-town)

MANILA, Philippines - Residents of Solsona town in Ilocos Norte province were surprised to see ice raining on them during a thunderstorm there Thursday.

Solsona Mayor Joseph de Lara told Bombo Radyo Laoag that the pieces of frozen rain that came with strong winds were as big as corn pellets.

De Lara added that while many residents were alarmed to see the ice from the hail, he considers it a blessing of sorts.

Excerpts of the interview were posted on the radio station's Web site (www.bomboradyo.com) Thursday night.

The report said even the local Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) was "surprised" over the hail.

It said Cynthia Iglesias of the Laoag Pagasa office said only Baguio and Kalinga have experienced such rain and ice.

On the other hand, Pagasa's 5 p.m. weather advisory said the tail end of a cold front is now affecting Extreme Northern Luzon.

"Extreme Northern Luzon will experience mostly cloudy skies with scattered light rains. The rest of the country will have partly cloudy to at times cloudy skies with isolated rainshowers or thunderstorms," it said. - GMANews.TV

NorthWind to complete plant expansion in August

Bangui Bay, Ilocos Norte—NorthWind Power Development Corp., owner of the country’s first wind farm, will complete its expansion to 33 megawatts from 24 MW by August.

NorthWind chairman Ferdinand Dumlao said in a briefing that the company had completed the groundwork for the expansion and would be ready to install the wind turbines shortly. The wind turbines are set for shipment to Ilocos Norte.

NorthWind plans to sell the additional capacity to be generated from the expansion to Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative. Any excess would be sold to the wholesale electricity spot market, Dumlao said.

NorthWind supplies 40 percent of the province’s power requirement while National Power Corp. provides the balance

Dumlao said the company would offer a 7-percent discount on its rates to the cooperative.

He said the company’s expansion plans, including the possibility of setting up a wind farm in Cagayan Valley, had received support from Japanese, Danish and Spanish investors and creditors.

“We hope we can tap more funds so we can expand more in this province,” he said.

Dumlao said the passage of the Renewable Energy Bill would also help in enticing investors to pour in funds for these capital-intensive projects.

“The provision in the RE bill that will allow investors to enjoy incentives will help promote wind energy development,” he added. Alena Mae S. Flores

http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=business5_may3_2008

Estate developer to build shopping mall in Ilocos (http://www.gmanews.tv/story/97922/Estate-developer-to-build-shopping-mall-in-Ilocos)

MANILA, Philippines - Robinsons Land Corp. will build its first shopping mall in Ilocos Norte, one of the 15 such establishments it seeks to set up in the next five years.

The listed firm said it had signed a joint venture deal with Venvi Development Corp., a property developer in the northern province.

Under the agreement, Robinsons Land will develop a two-level shopping mall along the National Highway, in the village of San Francisco in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte.

The shopping mall will be part of a 20-hectare mixed-use development that will include residential and office buildings, hotels and call centers that will rise adjacent to the mall.

Robinsons Ilocos Norte is expected to be completed by 2009. It will be its fourth mall in Northern Luzon aside from Robinsons Starmills and Robinsons Place Angeles in Pampanga, and Luisita Mall in Tarlac.

The mall developer is expected to complete Robinsons Tacloban, Cybergate Davao and Robinsons Dumaguete soon.

Robinsons Land is a major real estate player with a growing portfolio of shopping centers, high-rise residential condominiums and town houses, mid- and low-cost subdivisions, office buildings and hotels.

It has 23 shopping malls, 26 residential condominiums, six office buildings, 31 residential subdivisions and four hotels. - BusinessWorld

Robinsons signs joint venture on Ilocos mall

By Elizabeth Sanchez-Lacson
Philippine Daily Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines--Robinsons Land Corp., the property arm of tycoon John Gokongwei Jr., said it had signed a joint-venture agreement with Ilocos-based real estate company Venvi Development Corp. to build a shopping mall in the northern province of Ilocos Norte.

It said its commercial centers division would build a two-level mall along the national highway in San Francisco village in the town of San Nicolas.

The mall will be a key component of a 20-hectare mixed-use development by Venvi, headed by Hilario Valdez as president, which will include residential and office buildings, hotels and call centers.

The mall, to be named Robinsons Ilocos Norte, is expected to be completed by end-2009 with anchor retailers Robinsons Department Store, Robinsons Supermarket, Handyman-Do It Best Home Center, as well as cinemas, an amusement center and a food court.

Robinsons Land at present has 23 shopping malls, 26 residential condominiums, six office buildings, 31 residential subdivisions and four hotels.

It earlier said it planned to build at least six malls this year. Company president Frederick Go said the expansion was part of a P10-billion capital expenditure plan for 2008.

Plans are malls in Pulilan, Bulacan; Tacloban, Leyte; Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija; Davao; Cebu, and Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental.

http://business.inquirer.net/money/breakingnews/view/20080529-139476/Robinsons-signs-joint-venture-on-Ilocos-mall

^^ I thought it would be named Robinsons Place Laoag but I realized it would be built in San Nicolas & not in Laoag.

Attention Ilokano Forumers:

If you love the Philippines, use this as your avatar for the whole month of June or for as long as you want:

http://img123.imageshack.us/img123/3863/3dflagsphl00010002awu7.gif

Message from Kuya Sinjin P.

Exterior Perspective / Rendering of the planned Robinson's to be built in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj111/inol_bucket/robinsons_ilocos.jpg
.
.
Photo courtesy of Ilocos Times (http://www.ilocostimes.com)
.

^^Cool! :yes:

naimas,tama ba ako?congrats ilocos norte

^^Naimas means delicious. :D

Exterior Perspective / Rendering of the planned Robinson's to be built in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj111/inol_bucket/robinsons_ilocos.jpg
.
.
Photo courtesy of Ilocos Times (http://www.ilocostimes.com)
.

Looks nice. Sure ba yan? Kasi if I think na yung lot na gagamitin hindi ma-a-accomodate yung pahabang configuration tulad niyan.

Eto location niya. 365 center
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/365center05.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/365center04.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/365center03.jpg
Right now, the lot is temporarily occupied by makeshift tiangges.

Anyway, here's a panorama taken by me from the Sinking Bell Tower of Laoag
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/Ilocos2008/laoag01-01.jpg

Exterior Perspective / Rendering of the planned Robinson's to be built in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte

http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj111/inol_bucket/robinsons_ilocos.jpg
.
.
Photo courtesy of Ilocos Times (http://www.ilocostimes.com)
.

Nice...

I hope sure na 'to, otherwise they would not publish it on local papers.
And now that Robinson's is entering the Ilocos area, rumors has it that SM might follow suit - probably in the Laoag area.

Di ba sabi nila "wherever SM goes, so goes Robinsons"?
Kaso nga lang nauna yung Robinson's dito e. Pwede rin kayang "wherever Robinson goes, so goes SM? :lol:

Laoag buildings to be demolished to give way for mall
http://www.mb.com.ph/PROV20080620127796.html

By JUN GUIANG

LAOAG CITY — The city government will relocate the old Laoag Central Elementary School and three other government buildings to give way for the construction of a shopping mall here, city officials said.

Laoag Mayor Michael V. Fariñas said he has been closely coordinating with the Diocese of Laoag headed by Bishop Sergio Utleg in the formulation of the terms and conditions of the proposed mall project.

Records show that the 1.3-hectare lot where the school building stands was donated to then municipality of Laoag many years ago by the Catholic church primarily for educational purposes.

The eastern portion of the lot is occupied by a building housing the city school division office of the Department of Education (DepEd), the Department of Fire Protection, and Girl Scout headquarters.

Fariñas said all the buildings in the lot would be demolished and transferred somwhere else at the expense of the prospective mall owner.

Under the memorandum of agreement being finalized by the city government and the Diocese, the investor, who would win in the public bidding for the mall project, is required to post a R50million fund for the relocation and construction of a new modern school building, Fariñas said.

During the public hearing held last Tuesday, Mayor Fariñas and Bishop Utleg convinced the people to support the project, citing the many benefits for the Laoageños. These include more job opportunities, increased revenues for the city’s coffers, and other business activities.
__________________________
is this a different mall? kasi yung robinsons lot is occupied by tiannges and this is not.

^^

Any idea on which mall developer is being referred to in this article?

SM, perhaps?

^^ More than likely - SM is probably the only entity that might be willing and able to shoulder the P50 M cost to relocate the (current occupant) elementary school. Location is right at the heart of the city proper - very ideal.

If this pushes through, I feel for the Moms & Pops stores (tiyang-ge) in the surrounding area, which will certainly be driven out of business. I am sure they will not go down without a fight though. I expect stiff opposition from these guys.

Ano maging name ng robinson? Rob san nicolas or rob ilocos norte? di siguro pwedeng tawagin na rob laoag kasi nasa labas na sya ng laoag.

^^ More than likely - SM is probably the only entity that might be willing and able to shoulder the P50 M cost to relocate the (current occupant) elementary school. Location is right at the heart of the city proper - very ideal.

If this pushes through, I feel for the Moms & Pops stores (tiyang-ge) in the surrounding area, which will certainly be driven out of business. I am sure they will not go down without a fight though. I expect stiff opposition from these guys.

I don't think it'll be SM. Laoag is too small to support 2 giant malls.

^^ That is true.
But Robinson's will be in neighboring San Nicolas town and SM will be in the heart of Laoag city. Still, even Ilocos Norte as a whole will be too small for Robinson's & SM.

However, as Teddy Roosevelt said, "if you build it, they will come".

We'll just have to wait and see:)

LAOAG CITY Mayor Michael V. Fariñas and Laoag Diocese Bishop Sergio L. Utleg presided over the first public hearing on the proposed conversion of the
Laoag Central Elementary School lot into a commercial area on June 16.

During the said public hearing, Fariñas assured that the proposed project would boost employment opportunities in the city and in the whole province as he also expressed hopes that this time around, this project would not be lost like past proposals which include the establishment of a tertiary hospital in the city and a dialysis center, among others.

As for the Catholic church, which originally owned the land and ceded in to the city government but for educational purposes only, a memorandum of agreement between the city government and the church has been drafted but both parties are still waiting for the result of the public hearing.

Fariñas formally presented the project and its potential benefits to the people of Laoag as he stressed that city residents would be the priority with regards to the project from its start until becomes fully operational. In line with this, Fariñas said he is set to propose to members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod to pass an ordinance that, as much as possible, would state that a minimum of 70% of employees be from Laoag.

Fariñas also repeated earlier pronouncements that the investor has promised to shoulder all the financial costs for the relocation of the school, the Department of Education office, the Bureau of Fire Protection station as well as the Girl Scouts of the Philippines office. He also clarified that the operation of the school will not be affected nor disturbed by the project as the school’s buildings would not be touched unless all the conditions put forth by the city government had been completed.

“Kayat na nga sawen, awan pulos makuti ditoy Central agingganat saan amin a malpas dagiti kondisyones nga napagsasaritaan (It basically means the school would not be touched until all conditions agreed upon by both parties had been completed),” Fariñas explained. Utleg, for his part, said he favors the proposed conversion of LCES into a commercial area. “Ti pinagkitak ket pagsayaatan iti siyudad dayta, pagsayaatan ti eskwela ken dagiti agbas-basa gapu ta maaddaan iti baro nga eskwela ken (In my opinion, this would be for the betterment of the city, the school and the pupils to have a new school building), the site will be safer and more conducive to learning ta ditoy a parte ket magulo (because the school’s present location is chaotic),”Utleg said. On top of this, Utleg said he further believes that the conversion would help a lot people by means of additional employment and taxes and the income of the city government would also be increased. At the same time, he added that lease payment would also be a great help to the church.

THE ILOCOS TIMES learned that LCES would be relocated to a lot in front of the Bishop’s Palace along P. Gomez St., the BFP would be transferred to the City Engineering Office compound in Barangay 1, and the DepEd office would be moved to an area behind the Gabaldon Elementary School. The GSP office for its part would have to choose whether they would want to go with the DepEd office or choose another location. The construction of the relocated buildings—from start to the finishing touches—would be paid for by the investor and the city government would not spend a single centavo for it. The said buildings upon completion would be owned by the city government. The LCES lot would be leased by the investor and the church and the city government would have a share of 75% and 25%, respectively.

The city government opted for the 25% share since it would still collect taxes from the business enterprise to be established, including real property, business, community and sales taxes. Meanwhile, Laoag Councilor Sonia B. Siazon, who owns one of the business establishments that would be affected
should this project push through, asked the help of Utleg for her relocation since she is paying her rent to the church. During the open forum, other
relocated schools were also discussed. These were the Divine Word College of Laoag and Northwestern College (now University), wherein both were earlier located at the heart of city but which were transferred to Barangay 21 and Buttong, respectively. It was further stated that the relocation was due to development, increase of enrollees and the risks the pupils and students faced with traffic. After the relocation, students and pupils continued to enroll in the said schools.

Relative to this, Fariñas said the prospective investor, which has yet to be formally identified as of this time, would also provide shuttle service to LCES pupils and teachers in going to their school’s new site. The said bus would be donated to the city government but would be operated by the school. In ending, Fariñas thanked all the parents and teachers who attended the public hearing as he said he believes those who attended were amenable to the proposed project based on their reactions. THE ILOCOS TIMES however noticed that LCES principal Primo Domingo was not in the hearing though city schools division superintendent Dr. Cecilia P. Aribuabo and other school heads were present. Fariñas said he respected Domingo’s non-appearance speculating that the principal may have something important to do or to attend to or that he simply just wants to take a “hands-off” policy on the matter.

Another public hearing on the issue is set on June 25 at 3pm at the city basketball court for all the people of Laoag.
_________________________________________________________________
Source: Ilocos Times (http://www.ilocostimes.com)

^^ That is true.
But Robinson's will be in neighboring San Nicolas town and SM will be in the heart of Laoag city. Still, even Ilocos Norte as a whole will be too small for Robinson's & SM.

However, as Teddy Roosevelt said, "if you build it, they will come".

We'll just have to wait and see:)

Well, to me San Nicolas is Laoag already. I know people from San Nicolas identify themselves with Laoag since the town is so much dependent on the city. Where Laoag goes, San Nicolas goes, simple as that.

^^ Not quite.

Bacarra, where I come from depends so much on Laoag. As the province's commercial & industrial hub, any town is largely dependent on Laoag (in a way) but towns folks - San Nicolenos included - never ever identify themselves with Laoag. Not that I am aware of.

San Nicolas has industries specific to itself much like any other town in Ilocos Norte whereby depending (financially) on Laoag is not necessary. Unless I'm interpreting you incorrectly, I disagree that "San Nicolas is Laoag already".

I do agree however, that Laoag & San Nicolas compliment each other.

^^ Not quite.

Bacarra, where I come from depends so much on Laoag. As the province's commercial & industrial hub, any town is largely dependent on Laoag (in a way) but towns folks - San Nicolenos included - never ever identify themselves with Laoag. Not that I am aware of.

San Nicolas has industries specific to itself much like any other town in Ilocos Norte whereby depending (financially) on Laoag is not necessary. Unless I'm interpreting you incorrectly, I disagree that "San Nicolas is Laoag already".

I do agree however, that Laoag & San Nicolas compliment each other.

I know that San Nicolas has business and commercial establishments of its own but the way I look at it Laoag still serves as the catalyst here. Also when I say San Nicolenos identify themselves with Laoag, I don't mean it literally but only technically and it's just to give people some idea of its whereabouts. It's just like saying "I'm from Chicago" when I actually live in the suburbs. Wen gayam idanon mo man la ti kablaawko kadagita pada nga Ilokano dita Honolulun bro. Baka makpasiarkam to dita inton Agosto. Also one quick question bro. Do you know if Rodney Santos ever became a mayor of San Nicolas? I met him at a relative's place in Laoag during a party way back when his dad was the vice mayor.

^^ Aloha freightrunner.
Taga Norte kadi met? Good to meet some Ilocosnorteniennes here. Although I am not sure if we are allowed to write in our own dialect in this forum, naragsakak ta adda padak nga ilokano ditoy SSC. Bay-am ta idanonkonto ta nabara nga kabla-aw mo kadagiti pada nga ilokano ditoy Hawaii.

By the way, I don't think Rodney Santos ever became a mayor of San Nicolas.

Good to hear that my beloved province is has awakened already. Because of the nature of my work, laging akong lumilipat ng probinsya and all I can say, wala pa ring tatalo sa Ilocos Norte.

Tacloban Sangyaw Festival 2008 contingents:
(June 29 2:00pm)

Isabela
Laoag
Navotas
Marikina
Makati
Talisay
Lapulapu
Bacolod
Cagayan de Oro
Iloilo
Ozamis
Cebu (Lumad Basakanon)
Abuyog, Leyte
Catarman, Northern Samar
Tacloban

Tacloban Sangyaw Festival 2008 contingents:
(June 29 2:00pm)

Isabela
Laoag
Navotas
Marikina
Makati
Talisay
Lapulapu
Bacolod
Cagayan de Oro
Iloilo
Ozamis
Cebu (Lumad Basakanon)
Abuyog, Leyte
Catarman, Northern Samar
Tacloban

hello there people! I'm new to this website! nice meeting all of you! :)

http://i30.tinypic.com/2nisdcg.jpg
^^
anyway, this photo is not mine! I just found it on flickr... owned by vjv26!

Hey howzit lovemycity?
Welcome to the boards!!!
Are you from Laoag?

Laoag is adjudged as one of the most competitive small-sized cities across the land so we can expect some sort of another influx of investments.
I can't wait to visit Ilocos next year!

Well it should be. The city government is targeting to make it as a highly urbanized city within 5 years.

Well, to me San Nicolas is Laoag already. I know people from San Nicolas identify themselves with Laoag since the town is so much dependent on the city. Where Laoag goes, San Nicolas goes, simple as that.

^^ Not quite.

Bacarra, where I come from depends so much on Laoag. As the province's commercial & industrial hub, any town is largely dependent on Laoag (in a way) but towns folks - San Nicolenos included - never ever identify themselves with Laoag. Not that I am aware of.

San Nicolas has industries specific to itself much like any other town in Ilocos Norte whereby depending (financially) on Laoag is not necessary. Unless I'm interpreting you incorrectly, I disagree that "San Nicolas is Laoag already".

I do agree however, that Laoag & San Nicolas compliment each other.

I know that San Nicolas has business and commercial establishments of its own but the way I look at it Laoag still serves as the catalyst here. Also when I say San Nicolenos identify themselves with Laoag, I don't mean it literally but only technically and it's just to give people some idea of its whereabouts. It's just like saying "I'm from Chicago" when I actually live in the suburbs. Wen gayam idanon mo man la ti kablaawko kadagita pada nga Ilokano dita Honolulun bro. Baka makpasiarkam to dita inton Agosto. Also one quick question bro. Do you know if Rodney Santos ever became a mayor of San Nicolas? I met him at a relative's place in Laoag during a party way back when his dad was the vice mayor.

^^ Aloha freightrunner.
Taga Norte kadi met? Good to meet some Ilocosnorteniennes here. Although I am not sure if we are allowed to write in our own dialect in this forum, naragsakak ta adda padak nga ilokano ditoy SSC. Bay-am ta idanonkonto ta nabara nga kabla-aw mo kadagiti pada nga ilokano ditoy Hawaii.

I think I understand what freightrunner is trying to say here. It's like San Nicolas is to Laoag in Ilocos Norte and Bantay is to Vigan in Ilocos Sur.:)

^^ Thanks brownman! I understand what you're saying.
Anyway, I think San Nicolas is so strategically-located (being "sandwiched" by two cities - Laoag and Batac) that it might become a city soon, judging from it's rapid development.
I see a metropolis in the making: Laoag-San Nicolas-Batac :)

LC, church sign MOA for Laoag Central Elementary School conversion (http://www.ilocostimes.com)
BY DOMINIC B. DELA CRUZ
STAFF REPORTER

AFTER HOLDING a series of public hearings attended by stakeholders, the Laoag City government, represented by Mayor Michael V. Fariñas, and the Diocese of Laoag, represented by Bishop Sergio L. Utleg, signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) at the City Hall Conference Room on June 30, paving the way for the conversion of the Laoag Central Elementary School (LCES) site into a commercial area.

After the signing, Fariñas said this date [of the MOA signing] would be historical for Laoag for he believes that this signals the changing of the lives of the city’s residents for the better. After 28 years of eyeing the construction of a big commercial center at the heart of the city, Fariñas said the time for the vision to be realized has come. The mayor said after the public hearings and the MOA signing, a publication for the bidding for the project would be next in the procedure. Fariñas said he welcomes developers to bid for the project as he explained that the planned commercial area would not only include a mall but also office spaces, hotels, and call centers, among others, provided they would meet all the conditions stated in the MOA. Fariñas added that he expects a timeframe of less than two months for the publication and bidding and the project would be started with a groundbreaking ceremony. Earlier, Venvi announced that construction of Robinsons mall in San Nicolas would begin by September this year.

In view of this, Fariñas is hopeful that the Laoag commercial area project’s start would begin ahead of the San Nicolas mall project provided the publication and bidding would be finished immediately. Fariñas said it would a great blessing for him should the project start by August this year, in time for his birthday on the same month and his return from Harvard University in the United States on a study grant scheduled this July. Construction of the commercial area, however, would depend on fulfilling first the conditions contained in the MOA which include the relocation of LCES, the Department of Education Division Office, the Bureau of Fire Protection office, and the Girl Scouts of the Philippines office. Based on the timetable also set in the agreement, the relocation sites would be completed from 4-6 months and the actual construction of the commercial complex may take from 8-14 months, depending on the size of the structure. Fariñas further stressed that what were discussed and promised during the public hearings have been stated in the MOA. Meanwhile, Utleg prayed that the MOA signing would lead to a more progressive and dynamic city. The bishop further clarified that the original purpose of the ceding of the lot by the Catholic Church to the city government, which was for the use of the lot for “educational purposes only”, would still be complied with as the school would only be relocated into another area.Utleg added that the commercial complex project is for everybody and would create employment and job opportunities not only for the people of Laoag but of the whole province as well.

The MOA signing was also attended by other city government officials led by Laoag Vice Mayor Eddie P. Domingo and Fr. Policarpio Albano.

Visit www.missuniverse.com or www.nbc.com to vote for Miss Philippines for the Best National Costume award at the Miss Universe 2008 pageant. Vote ASAP kasi baka mag-close na ang voting. Thanks and God bless!

Exterior Perspective / Rendering of the planned Robinson's to be built in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte

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Photo courtesy of Ilocos Times (http://www.ilocostimes.com)
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napintas!! :) ^^

^^:)mayat nga pagpalamiisan no kapudotna hehe.

Is it located along the National Highway going to Laoag? Nifty design btw. :okay:

Yup yup.

some photos of the Patapat Viaduct...

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you can access the blog entry, with all the photos and descriptions, here (http://www.sinjin.ph/2008/07/18/sinjin%E2%80%99s-roadtrip-to-ilocandia-part-xiii-patapat-viaduct/)

some photos of Burgos and Bangui...

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you can access the blog entry, with all the photos and descriptions, here (http://www.sinjin.ph/2008/07/17/sinjin%E2%80%99s-roadtrip-to-ilocandia-part-xii-the-waves-of-burgos-and-the-windmills-of-bangui/)

some photos of Cape Bojeador...

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you can access the blog entry, with all the photos and descriptions, here (http://www.sinjin.ph/2008/07/16/sinjin%E2%80%99s-roadtrip-to-ilocandia-part-xi-cape-bojeador/)

Accor Hotel to build no-frills hotel (http://www.philippine-builder.com/content/view/478/108/)
European based Accor Hotel, United Kingdom’s Yotel, Malaysian hotel chain and two Indian firms are interested in building no frills hotels in the country.

“I will be meeting the representatives from the Indian firms in the next 90 days,” Samie Lim, chairman of the Philippine Franchisers Association said in an interview.

Lim refused to name the Indian companies saying only that one group owns four hotels while the other operates 30 hotels.

Lim explained that he is studying the concept of the Malaysian group which ties up the budget air fare to the hotel. “Air Asia has a partnership with a hotel near the airport. It is a good business,” he explained. Lim said the investments are part of the ASEAN hotel project of the ASEAN member nations namely the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar and Malaysia.

The ASEAN hotel plans to build similar no frills hotels in the 10 member countries. The hotels will be priced the same. The amenities, rooms and the lobby of all the hotels across the ASEAN will be the same as well.

According to Lim, the ASEAN ministers approved the ASEAN hotel concept last year after the meeting of the economic ministers in Manila.

“All the ASEAN hotels will have similar services and integrated marketing and advertising,” Lim explained. “They will also conduct a centralized training for the food and beverage staff.”

This, he said, is necessary in order to ensure that the services provided by all ASEAN hotels are consistent.

Also, Lim said there will be more than one ASEAN hotel per country. In the Philippines, he said there should be ASEAN hotels in all major tourist destinations like Cebu, Boracay, Bacolod, Baguio and Ilocos.

Lim further said that the owner of the franchise in the country must be a local. If this is not possible, he said at least a big chunk of the hotel franchise is owned by a resident. For example, the master franchise of the hotel must be 34 percent owned by locals.

The Accor Hotel is currently operating in nearly 100 countries. It is the European leader in hotels and the global leader in corporate services. Yotel on the other hand is also a no frills hotel operating in United Kingdom.

Getting Lost: Tale of a lighthouse

By CHEN REYES-MENCIAS It was a cloudy morning and the wind was howling from the northeast when I drove north. Sheets of rain drowned the windshield as I approached Burgos, a town approximately 35 kilometers from Laoag City. This town boasts of the most popular and well preserved Spanish lighthouse in the country, the Faro de Cabo Bojeador. Like magic the rain stopped abruptly as I came close to the hill path that leads to the lighthouse itself.

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The octagonal and partially-truncated tower is situated in the highest portion of the complex. The original cupola and lantern are still preserved unlike other Spanish lighthouses in the country. Photo courtesy of Chen Reyes-Mencias

A stunning view of the jagged seascape of Ilocos Norte and the South China sea opened before me as I drove up the winding road of a hill called Vigia de Nagparitan. I parked in a cu-de-sac and climbed the steps that lead to the complex some 160 meters above sea level. I was met by Vicente Acova who has been a lighthouse keeper for 21 years. He comes from a family of lighthouse keepers. His grandfather Marcelo Vea became a lighthouse keeper immediately after the war while his father retired after 18 years of watching over lighthouses in different parts of Luzon.

Acova guided me around the complex and told me stories of hardship and perseverance. He recalls how he and his fellow workers risked their lives when they were almost caught in the crossfire between government forces and insurgents when the latter took over the complex. Instead of abandoning his post he felt that he had to make sure that the lighthouse was functional in order to prevent mishaps as ships rely on it for their navigational needs. Ships traveling towards the Babuyan Channel and towards the Pacific rely on its blinking light for safety. It also assists ships that are traveling south towards the ports of Currimao in Ilocos Norte and Salomangue in Ilocos Sur.

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Considered to be the most visited lighthouse due to its accessibility and restored state, the pavilion of the lighthuse complex five apartments, one of which has been converted into a museum. Photo courtesy of Chen Reyes-Mencias

Tourist attraction

The Burgos lighthouse, as it is most often called, is considered to be the most photographed and visited lighthouse in the country. This may be due to the fact that it is accessible and well preserved. It has even become a favorite location for movies and films.

“Nadagdagan na ang gamit ng lighthouse na ito” (The value of the lighthouse has been increased), remarks Acova.

It is no longer merely a guiding light, it is also a tourist attraction. People on road trips to the north, most often than not, drive up the winding road to check it out and treat themselves to the stunning view of the landscape. It has a museum from where one can have more information regarding its history, restoration work and other initiatives to save it from decay. Walking its courtyard and the preserved apartments, I could not help but wonder how it was during the Spanish era when it was being built. Most lighthouses are strategically situated regardless of their accessibility. This lighthouse was built to guide navigators away from the treacherous rocky shores of northwestern Luzon. Most are not located close to major highways or road system. Perhaps way back then, there was no road at all and boats had to bring the materials to the rocky beach. I could imagine workers carrying them all the way up the hill. As I looked at the distance, I imagined galleons anchored near the shore and small boats ferrying workers who would spend not only months but years to build this structure. Unlike other lighthouses that were made of granite or coralline stones, the Burgos lighthouse is almost totally made of bricks. It was the principal building material in the Ilocos region. The bricks were baked in kilns located at the bottom of the hill. This made it easier for the builders. Unlike its sister lighthouse in Palaui Island, Sta. Ana, where 78 workers died due to the harsh condition and the hardship of carrying all materials including granite stones up the hill, the Burgos lighthouse has no tale of severe sufferings.

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Vicente Acova comes from a family of lighthouse keepers. From an earlier Nordis issue about the Cape Engaño lighthouse of Palaui Island, Cagayan; the sister lighthouse of Cape Bojeador. Photo courtesy of Chen Reyes-Mencias

When asked why other lighthouses do not have lighthouse keepers, Acova replied that unlike other lighthouses in the country, the Burgos lighthouse is very accessible and very close to the highway. This makes it possible for people like him to be there on a daily basis. The preserved condition of the lighthouse also allows him and sometimes even his family to stay and live in the apartments. Others are just almost totally run down and unstable that it is impossible for lighthouse keepers to live in them. The Department of Transportation and Communication still provides lighthouse keepers to most lighthouses in the country but most of them no longer stay within the premises, instead they conduct regular visitations to check on the integrity of the lenses and the mechanism.

Years of labor

Like most infrastructures during the Spanish era, the Burgos lighthouse was completed after years of labor. Construction started in 1887 based on original designs made by Engineer Magin Pers y Pers. In 1890 the design was reconfigured by Engineer Guillermo Brockman. It was finally finished in 1892 and was first lighted on March 30 of the same year.

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This flight of stairs leads to the tower that is made of bricks baked in a kiln located at the bottom of the hill on which Faro de Cabo de Bojeador perches on guard over the Ilocos coastline. Photo courtesy of Chen Reyes-Mencias

The complex is composed of three levels. The lowest level has the court yard, service buildings and the cistern. The latter until today collects rain water and is accessed by a well. Almost opposite the main gate are three kitchens and storage areas. A flight of stairs lead to the second level. It houses the pavilion with apartments that serve various uses. These serve as an office, sleeping and living quarters and as a museum. The pavilion is relatively in good condition with minimal restoration work needed to preserve the original architectural designs.

The tower is located in the highest portion of the area. It is octagonal in shape and is made of bricks. The lower part of the tower is truncated while the rest is straight and supports the overhanging balcony. The cylindrical attic houses the original cupola and lantern.

Due to its tourist value, preservation of the lighthouse is justified. Today the Burgos lighthouse stands as a memorial to the hard work put in by the builders as well as the dedication of the keepers who ensure that such monuments continue to guide ships and prevent them from running aground. It is a tourist attraction, teaching people how to care for historical monuments and respect heritage.

Article courtesy of The Northern Dispatch Weekly (http://www.nordis.net/blog/?p=2806#more-2806)

OH ILOCOS! (http://www.philstar.com/archives.php?aid=200807296&type=2)

By Susan Nuevo
Wednesday, July 30, 2008

The longest road trip I ever made was last Holy Week of 2008. Me and my girlfriend spent 16 hours of travel by bus to experience and have a taste of what Ilocos region has to offer.



I enjoyed the bus ride actually. Partas bus is the most comfortable bus I have ever ridden. They have clean rest room in our every stop overs and the driver and conductor were very efficient and very

friendly.

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I was not expecting the beauty of Ilocos region. The tobacco leaves swaying
as we pass by as if welcoming us. The radiant smiles beaming in every face of the local folks. Ilocanos were very friendly indeed!





Our first stop was at Saud in Pagudpud. The place is heaven. Clear water, soft sand lying on the beach. My girlfriend instantly forgot the long ride as soon as she saw the beach. It was fantastic! It made us wish that there is a Pagudpud in Makati too! The tranquility of the beach has made us forget the rushes of the metropolis. We basked in the sun and kissed our office-troubles goodbye hahaha!





(Saud beach shore)

(my friend doll basking in the sun)

(me with Saud’s crystal blue water)





Next morning we went to Bangui beach. We were awed by the gigantic wind mills by the shore. All fifteen of them. Birds flocking added a nice symmetry to the overwhelming view. I almost forgot that I don’t know how to swim.

And we had a taste of Ilocano heritage as well. Vigan oh Vigan! The UNESCO site was a fantastic site to behold. Antiques here and there. Too bad, I don’t have enough cash to purchase some. But, I had enough pictures to look at over and over again.



Ilocos cuisine is exquisite too. I had my share of papaitan, their onionriffic cornicks (fried corn bits), the tasty and yummy sweets. The Vigan longganisa was sooo sinful that I had to urged my friend to buy a kilo for me.



So many places to see, so many things to do, so many food to taste but so little time. I promised myself I will go back to Ilocos and itinerary listed as follows:

1. try puffing the tobacco ala Fidel Ramos

2. see the Lighthouse

3. wear my bikini at the Blue Lagoon

4. see Apong Marcos shrine and give him my father’s last respect (my father was a Marcos loyalist)

5. have my picture taken at Paoay church and…

6. feast in Ilocano food and forget the diet J



The ride to Ilocos is pain-in-a-butt so my friend says…but it was worth it! You can feel God’s love radiating when the sun rise. Shining over the lush green fields, making the beaches sparkle and my brown skinned kababayan more beautiful than ever.



I shall return Ilocos! I will.
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Bangui wind farm: ‘Green’ and profiting (http://www.gmanews.tv/story/110489/Bangui-wind-farm-Green-and-profiting)
JUDY T. GULANE, BusinessWorld Sub-Editor
07/31/2008 | 04:14 AM


MANILA, Philippines - The meteoric rise in world oil prices has been a bane to many but a boon to those who know that the supply of oil is finite and the alternatives and profits lie in "green" alternatives.

Filipino and Dutch entrepreneurs are now exploiting the country’s wind power for electricity production, lighting up communities and pocketing profits in the process.

And because their business does not contribute to the accumulation of harmful greenhouse gases, they are generating additional revenues through a mechanism provided by an international agreement on climate change, proving that "green" businesses can be doubly rewarding.

Northwind Power Development Corp. runs the Northwind Bangui Bay Project that harnesses wind coming from the South China Sea into electricity that helps light up Ilocos Norte in northern Luzon.

The project has been in operation since 2005, supplying the Ilocos Norte Electric Cooperative (INEC) with around 25 megawatts of power, equivalent to 40% of the cooperative’s power requirement.

Fifteen wind turbines, each 70 meters tall, each equipped with three 41-meter blades, rise along a nine-kilometer windswept beach in Bangui. The first of its kind in the Philippines and in Southeast Asia, they have become a tourist attraction.

Marlon M. Centeno, vice-president for business development at Northwind Power, said the project was made "viable" because of a loan by the Danish government.

The Danish government, through the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA), extended the firm a $29.5-million "mixed credit" or zero-interest loan. The balance of the $48-million initial investment was raised through debt and equity by Northwind Power’s shareholders.

The company has turned a profit since its wind project got off the ground, thanks to the Danish assistance in large part, as well as the appreciation of the peso and attractive tariffs in the past two years.

Wind projects normally become profitable after seven years in operation.

Cash from carbon credits

Yet aside from the money made from power sales, the firm also generates cash from the greenhouse gases it offsets.

Because it does not use fossil fuels to produce electricity, each megawatt of power produced offsets approximately 0.655 ton of carbon dioxide equivalent. Taken another way, if the facility were using fossil fuels, it would have produced 0.655 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent with each megawatt of power.

Annually, its emission offset is estimated to reach around 57,000 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Greenhouse gas emission reductions are measured per ton of carbon dioxide equivalent, carbon dioxide being the reference gas against which other greenhouse gases are measured. Other greenhouse gases are methane, nitrous oxide, hydroflourocarbons, perfluoro-carbons and sulfur hexafluoride.

Northwind Power is among the 17 Philippine-based projects registered with the CDM Executive Board based in Bonn, Germany - the international body that issues the certificates called certified emission reductions or CERs that are used in carbon trading.

A CER is issued for every ton of carbon dioxide equivalent.

The company, in fact, was the first and so far the only Philippine-based venture that has availed of the clean development mechanism (CDM) in the Kyoto Protocol on climate change, which allows a project based in a developing country to sell its emission reductions to a company based in or the government of an industrialized country.

Giovanni A. Macapobre, Northwind Power business development manager, said the company’s earnings from its reductions have mounted to several thousand dollars - paltry compared to the firm’s operating expenses - but are additional cash nonetheless.

The idea under the CDM is that industrialized countries can buy CERs from developing states so they can meet greenhouse gas emission commitments under the Kyoto Protocol.

The international agreement, adopted in December 1997 and which came into force in 2005, mandated industrialized countries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 5.2% below 1990 levels over 2008 to 2012. The agreement aims to curb greenhouse gas emissions in order to mitigate climate change, described as the greatest threat to the planet.

Industrialized countries, in Europe in particular, operate by a cap-and-trade system that limits their gas emissions. Factories in these countries can either reduce their emissions or buy CERs from developing nations to count against their emissions.

CERs are issued by the CDM Executive Board upon third-party verification that greenhouse gases have been offset or reduced by a project. They serve as the CDM currency.

In the case of Northwind Power, it entered into an emission reduction purchase agreement with the World Bank, the trustee of the Prototype Carbon Fund created by 17 companies and six governments to buy CERs, in December 2004.

The contract is good for 10 years or up to 2015, said Mr. Macapobre, with the World Bank agreeing to buy each ton of carbon dioxide equivalent for $4.25.

Northwind Power has committed to displace a total of 358,000 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent - or 35,800 tons a year - under its agreement with the World Bank.

For the first crediting period - June 2005 to August 2006 - the company was able to generate around 28,000 CERs. By the second crediting period - August 2006 to August 2007 - these rose to around 37,000 CERs.

"Our first check amounted to $65,000, and the second, $86,000," Mr. Macapobre said.

He explained that Northwind Power owes the World Bank some $200,000 for the baseline study the bank did that qualified the Northwind Bangui Bay Project as a CDM project. Payment is made out of the company’s CER proceeds, which explains the small check amounts.

The company is expecting to earn more by the third crediting and succeeding periods, however, as it begins producing more power and settles its debt with the World Bank.

For the third crediting period, for instance, Northwind Power is expected to earn "more than 37,000" CERs, Mr. Macapobre said.

Phase two of the project is underway, with five additional wind turbines to become operational in August. The five will add eight megawatts to total power generation.

With a total of 33 megawatts, Mr. Macapobre said it is very likely Northwind Power will comply with its greenhouse gas emission reduction commitment with the World Bank even before 2015.

"We can serve ahead in seven or eight years," he said.

This means Northwind Power can begin scouting for other CER buyers, who can offer higher prices, earlier.

The company is also looking forward to hurdling the third crediting period in order to exploit the burgeoning market for carbon credits.

"For the first three years, all CERs were committed to the World Bank, and thereafter, the uncommitted volume can be sold to interested parties," Mr. Macapobre said.

This means that CERs in excess of the 35,800 promised to World Bank each year can be sold to other parties.

Mr. Macapobre said that many "interested parties" have approached Northwind Power, dangling prices of 12 to 13 euros per ton of carbon dioxide equivalent - more than four times the World Bank price with the euro fetching around 1.50 dollars at prevailing exchange rates.

What will Northwind Power do with its emission offset earnings? "We will invest in the development of other sites," Mr. Macapobre said.

Vast RP potential

The country, according to a study made by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory of the United States , has the potential to generate 76,000 megawatts of power from wind energy.

Validation by the Energy department and the World Wide Fund for Nature has established that 7,400 megawatts of this number are viable, based on location in the country, wind speed and density, and economic feasibility including access to the transmission grid.

Only 25 megawatts has been tapped through the Northwind project.

"Surveying per site requires $20,000," Mr. Macapobre said.

The amount covers the construction of a tower and instruments such as a wind vane, which determines wind direction, and an anemometer, which measures wind speed.

Ten sites are needed at the same time because it’s more economical, since a study should last at least two years.

Northwind Power wants to capitalize more on the country’s wind energy potential. "At the start, the main consideration was just how to sell the power generated, to just serve [INEC]," Mr. Macapobre said, but this has changed.

Fifteen wind turbines plus the five scheduled to become operational next month will occupy just six kilometers of the nine-kilometer Bangui beach, presenting room for further expansion.

Community benefits

Meanwhile, the community that hosts the windmills, Bangui, benefits from a fee paid by the company per its agreement with the Energy department.

For every kilowatt sold, the company has to remit one centavo to the Energy department, of which half will go to an electrification fund, a fourth to a development and livelihood fund, and the remaining fourth to a reforestation, watershed management, health, and/or environment enhancement fund.

"This is a commitment for the entire life of the project," Mr. Macapobre said. "We pay directly to the Energy department, which then disburses the funds."

The electric cooperative, which serves 23 municipalities as well as Laoag City, enjoys discounts and savings that are passed on to customers.

As it puts the finishing touches on the additional five turbines in Bangui, Northwind Power is in the thick of discussions with the Cagayan Electric Cooperatives 1 and 2.

A two-year study has shown that the wind in Pamplona, Cagayan, which faces the Pacific Ocean, is as strong as in Bangui. But supply contracts with the two cooperatives need to be concluded first, Mr. Macapobre said, before financing can be secured.

"Once we close the contracts, then we can start with the groundwork," he said. "Hopefully, the wind farm will be up and running by 2012."

Another DANIDA loan is not in the drawing board, however, as the Danish government has removed the Philippines from the list of developing countries that can avail of its assistance.

Mr. Macapobre added that compliance with the DANIDA loan’s stipulation that the wind turbines be sourced from a Danish company will be hard to do. "There’s a long list of orders," he said, noting the rash of construction of wind farms worldwide. - BusinessWorld

PAL urged to fly directly to India (http://www.philstar.com/archives.php?aid=2008081625&type=2)
By Ma. Elisa P. Osorio
Sunday, August 17, 2008
The Department of Tourism (DOT) is trying to convince flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) to fly directly to India in order to encourage more Indian tourists to visit the country.

“Right now packages from India to the Philippines are very expensive,” Tourism Secretary Joseph Durano said in an interview.

According to Durano, there is great potential in India.

Aside from India, Durano said PAL should have direct flights to Europe because more Europeans are choosing to visit the country.

Latest data showed that 34 percent of European visitors come from Russia, 29 percent from France and 16 percent from Scandinavia.

Meanwhile, the DOT is intensifying its campaign to attract more residents of Hawaii to visit the country as Hawaii Airlines opened its direct flight to Manila last April.

Hawaii Airlines is the number one US carrier in on-time performance and baggage service in the US Department of Transportation Air Travel Consumer Report.

DOT will be bringing in travel agents from the US state to Manila, Laoag, Pagudpud, Vigan, Baguio and Davao.

The choice of destinations for the familiarization tours aims to show heritage sites in Manila, Laoag, Pagudpud and Vigan. Davao, on the other hand, is seen to excite tourists who are into adventure tourism.

Pagudpud’s new resorts and beachside developments have likewise reached the market’s tourism radar. A popular heritage site, Vigan has become a must-see destination for its rich and colorful history.

“We are simply using our leverage as the first Asian city gateway of the second largest airline that flies between US mainland and Hawaii,” Durano said.

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DFNN ventures into high-end tourism services (http://www.philstar.com/archives.php?aid=200809035&type=2)
By Zinnia B. Dela Peña
Thursday, September 4, 2008


Given tourism’s changing face with high-end business and leisure travellers demanding utmost luxury, leading IT solutions provider and systems integrator DFNN is responding and hoping to capitalize on the tourism growth in Asia.

In a press briefing yesterday, DFNN chief executive officer Ramon Garcia said the company, through Singapore-based technology unit Avensis Leisure Pte. Ltd., is venturing into the sophisticated high-end tourism business via a joint venture with Japanese firm Asian Elite Club Co. Ltd.

Asian Elite Club provides a full range of exclusive business service and other special tour planning services for jet-setting business travellers and wealthy tourists from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and other Asian countries where the company has extensive networks.

While relatively a new company, Asian Elite Club is upping the tourism ante with the services and products it offers which include private commercial aircraft and executive ground transport.

Garcia said a joint venture company (JVC) will be formed to serve as the corporate vehicle for this project whose ownership shall be shared equally by Avensis Leisure and Asian Elite Club. The JVC will offer niche travel services to high net worth individuals in Japan, Singapore and the Philippines, he said.

“We’re glad that Asian Elite Club sees growth in tourism in Singapore and the Philippines as an opportunuty to provide new destinations and offerings to this select clientele,” Garcia said.

Asian Elite Club chief executive officer Makoto Honda, for his part, said the joint venture shows the company’s strong confidence in the Philippines which has been actively promoting itself as a high-end tourist destination with the opening of major entertainment and gaming resorts.

Honda said the Philippines would be Asian Elite Club’s “perfect partner for the concierge and dedicated type services that the Japanese firm would like to offer to clients who have gone to Japan and are now looking for other destinations in Asia.”

“We are confident in the recognized growth of tourism in Asia and want to be the leader in the market for our highly sepcialized services to our discerning clientele,” Honda said.

Among the major tourist attractions that the group will offer to high-end tourists include the Amanpulo, El Nido Resort in Palawan, Panglao Island in Bohol, Discovery Shores in Boracay, Pagudpod in Ilocos Norte and Shangri-la Mactan Resort and Spa in Cebu.

Honda said tour packages range from $10,000 to $300,000 per person. The package is usually good for four to seven days. “The rates would depend on the individual needs and requests of clients,” he said.

The Department of Tourism expects tourist spending to hit $5.8 billion at the end of the year and is eyeing to maintain an eight to 10 percent growth in arrivals for this year, or as much as 3.4 million tourists.

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Ilocano farmers get titles to farmlands (http://www.philstar.com/archives.php?aid=2008090623&type=2)

Sunday, September 7, 2008


After 19 years of roller-coaster expectations, farmers in Burgos and Bangui towns in Ilocos Norte finally received titles to their farmlands.

Governor Michael Marcos Keon, who fully endorsed the extension of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), distributed certificates of land ownership awards (CLOAs) covering 150 hectares of arable land to 150 farmer-beneficiaries in simple rites at the Burgos town multi-purpose hall.

The arable portions were part of the 451-hectares of the so-called Dungon-Dungon Estate that straddles Burgos and Bangui. Owned by the province, the estate began to be documented by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in the early 1990s.

In a resolution approved by the Ilocos Sangguniang Panlalawigan, the provincial government sold the land to the farmers for a token amount of P5,000 per hectare.

Direct payment schemes are permitted under CARP acquisition and distribution modes. Here, beneficiaries do not have to go through any government banks and may pay the formers owners directly.

“The token payment is for us to promote dignity among the recipients. By putting in investments, no matter how small, they will feel real owners of the land,” said Keon.

The awarding of titles culminated almost 20 years of negotiations between DAR and the Ilocos Norte government which were delayed several times because of changes in local leadership. Keon gave credit to the persistence of DAR provincial officials led by provincial agrarian reform officer Christianne Castillejos Suguitan in pursuing the resolution of the issue.

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Conference to accelerate sports tourism (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/pam/2008/09/11/sports/conference.to.accelerate.sports.tourism.html)

A GATHERING of powerhouses in both the sports and tourism industry is poised to aggressively promote sports in the country as a tourism magnet and viable source of revenue. A consortium of government agencies led by the Department of Tourism (DOT), Province of Ilocos Norte and Selrahco Management Services is spearheading the first ever National Sports Tourism Conference on October 2 and 3.

Sports tourism is highly regarded as an effective initiative to attract tourists and foreign investors to the Philippines. By now, a number of sports attractions are creating waves in the country, notably water sports (surfing, wakeboarding, and scuba diving), mountaineering, and spelunking.
It has become one of the primary plans within the mandate of the DOT, which is to encourage and promote sports not only as a national pastime and part of a healthy lifestyle but as a tourism destination as well.

Progressive and scenic Laoag City in Ilocos Norte will be the arena of the event and the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte is pulling all stops to support the event. Ilocos Norte Governor Michael Keon, one of the key brains of the historic conference and a sports luminary, is making sure all sporting and tourism roads lead to Fort Ilocandia country.

Key personalities in both the sporting and tourism world will be on hand to exchange and discuss ideas to further enhance and develop sports tourism in the country.

Sports tourism includes all national, regional and cultural sporting events that are considered important in boosting tourism and investments for the country. Special focus will be on various sports that are deemed tourism magnets. This includes scuba diving, sailing, boating, golf and motorsports.

The organizers have also tapped some of the well-known sports luminaries, tourism officials, events planning gurus, marketing experts, and various corporate sponsors to impart their knowledge in marketing, events planning, tourism promotion, and best practices. This will help stakeholders to formulate programs designed to attract investors for sports tourism.

The event will feature an exciting ensemble of activities meant to launch the massive sports tourism program of the government and attract investors to this new and thrilling industry.

Keon, one of the brains behind the event and a sports luminary, is ecstatic about the conference since he says this will elevate sports to a new level of importance.

"Before, sports in the country was an internal affair, but with the holding of this event, gathering of major players in sports, tourism and government, I am sure we will put ourselves in the global map of sports," he proclaimed.

The conference will have stimulating themes and topics that evolve around the development and advancement of sports tourism such as Sports Tourism Products and the Inter-relationships between Sports and Tourism, The Role of Corporate Sponsorships in Sports Tourism Development, Collaboration of Government Agencies responsible for Sports and Tourism (DOT, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), local government units (LGUs)), Opportunities for Tour Operators, Maximizing Media Impact of Events, Staging of Sports as a Destination Product, Private Sponsorship of Sports Tourism events: Value and benefit to the Organizer and Sponsor, How Scuba Diving, Sailing, Boating and Golf enhance the travel experience and benefit local communities, Event and Sponsorship Marketing Strategies for the successful staging of sports tourism events, and Sports Tourism Event Staging, Planning and Management.

FERDINAND MARCOS STADIUM
Laoag City, Ilocos Norte

Under Renovation

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/marcosstadiumsetp2008-02.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/marcosstadiumsetp2008-03.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/marcosstadiumsetp2008-01.jpg

Mayat!!! :)

Imelda wants Bongbong to run for president

Fidel Jimenez
GMANews.TV

MANILA, Philippines – Former first lady Imelda Marcos said she would encourage her only son, Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand “Bongbong" Marcos Jr, to run for president in the 2010 elections.

GMA Network’s late night newscast Saksi quoted Wednesday Mrs Marcos as saying that her son is very much qualified to lead.

The former first lady at the same time announced that she has no plan to seek any elective position in 2010.

Last month, Bongbong has hinted at his intention to seek a national position in the 2010 elections, according to a report posted on online news site Bombo Radyo.

Bongbong Marcos did not give details except for saying he has enough experience from running a provincial government in the past and now he wants to try leading the nation.

At stake in the 2010 elections are the presidency, the vice presidency and 12 seats in the Senate.

Bongbong ran for a Senate seat in 1995 under the opposition ticket but lost.

Before becoming a representative of the 2nd district of Ilocos Norte, he was elected governor of the province in the late ‘80s.

Bongbong is the son of the late strongman Ferdinand Edralin Marcos, who was Philippine president from 1965 to 1986.

http://www.gmanews.tv/story/124340/Imelda-wants-Bongbong-to-run-for-president

LC settles for 2nd place in Nat’l Best POC search

By Dominic B. dela Cruz

Laoag City maintained its previous position in the Search for the Best Peace and Order Council (POC) nationwide search after it bagged second place for CY 2006 under the component city category.

Previously, the city also won runner-up honors in the same national search in the years 2002, 2003 and 2005.

Laoag won the right to represent the Ilocos region after it bagged the regional level of the said search.

Laoag City Department of Interior and Local Government director Reynaldo Garo and city administrator Gloria F. Peralta made the formal announcement during a staff meeting presided over by Laoag Mayor Michael V. Fariñas at the City Hall.

According to Garo the award meant that Laoag should be proud of its peace and order situation as he explained that the said search focused on the organized local special bodies, provision of livelihood projects, fire protection program, crime prevention program and crime solution efficiency.

The awarding, however, is yet to be scheduled as it is dependent on the availability of Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who would be the special guest.

Garo said he believes the awarding would be scheduled in October at Malacañang.

Reacting to this, Fariñas thanked all department heads who helped in the consolidation of the city’s entry into the best POC search.

The mayor also cited the cooperation of the general public in the maintenance of peace and order in the city adding that the award only proves that Laoag is generally a safe place to live in.

In other categories, San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte won first place in the 1st-3rd class municipality category while Pinili, Ilocos Norte also won second place in the 4th-6th class municipality category.

http://ilocostimes.com/oct06-oct12-08/news6.htm

Sports tourism is Ilocos Norte’s newest attraction

By Leilanie G. Adriano

THIS GATEWAY of Northern Philippines is poised to become the new hub for the sports tourism industry following the gathering of powerhouses from both the sports and tourism industries at Fort Ilocandia Resort and Casino to prepare, share insights and best practices on how to attract more tourists and foreign investors here.

The sports tourism conference was held on October 2, 2008 where several facets of the sports tourism industry such as water sports, mountaineering and airsoft among others were tackled.

Provincial tourism officer Angel Lao said tourism stakeholders in the province have started developing sports facilities as initial steps in chasing sports enthusiasts and to make Ilocos Norte their next destination.

“What we need to do now is to educate people who will be handling these kinds of activities in the future,” Lao stressed.

To date, foreign surfers and scuba divers have been visiting Maira-ira Cove in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte as this coastal town in the northern most part of the province has been identified as a world-class site for water sports.

Mountaineers can also go to upland Adams, Ilocos Norte, neighboring town of Pagudpud, for mountain trekking and camping.

The municipality of Burgos, another northern Ilocos Norte town, also offers horse riding, cycling, trekking and cave exploration in its eco-tourism sites such as the Kapurpurawan rock formation, Kaangrian waterfalls and caves.

On the eastern part of the province, the golf course in Suba, Paoay, Ilocos Norte is only a few minutes drive from the Laoag International Airport. The said golf course in currently being operated by Korean nationals.

The province’s approximately 750,000 hectares of sand dunes, found mostly in Laoag City and Paoay, has been considered one of the largest in the country and is an ideal site for combat shooting, motocross, airsoft and other gun sports.

Ilocos Norte Gov. and sports czar Michael M. Keon said the province plans to host major sports competitions and sports tourism-related events in the future, hence the breakthrough conference of sports tourism held October 2 to 3 at FIRC, which is an effort to develop a master plan for sports tourism in the province.

In cooperation with the Department of Tourism as well as other agencies, Keon said a multi-sectoral effort is underway to bring sports events in Ilocos Norte.

With the newly constructed synthetic track oval at the renamed Ferdinand E. Marcos Sports Stadium and the rehabilitation of the Olympic-sized swimming pool, the province is now ready to bid for regional and national sports event here, according to Keon.

The governor added that the Palarong Pambansa is expected to be held in the province in 2010.

The expected increase in influx of tourists to the province once these sporting events are held would just be in time for the nearing completion of the Ilocos Norte Hotel and Convention Center, Keon added saying he had been meeting with several private hotel and management groups for the proper management of the multi-million project.

Keon disclosed that there are some interested groups that want to manage the INHCC.

Co-Presentors of this historic event were the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte and Department of Tourism in cooperation with SELRAHCO Management Services which is the main organizer and a major sponsor. Other sponsors were SMART Communications, Inc., CEBU PACIFIC, Fort Ilocandia Resort and Casino, PAGCOR, SKAL International, CHRIS Sports, GATORADE, Manila Bulletin, Business Mirror, 92.3 xFM, ANC, DZRJ, Manila Bulletin Sports Digest and The Ilocos Times as the local media partner.

http://ilocostimes.com/oct06-oct12-08/news1.htm

Imelda wants Bongbong to run for president

Fidel Jimenez
GMANews.TV

MANILA, Philippines – Former first lady Imelda Marcos said she would encourage her only son, Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand “Bongbong" Marcos Jr, to run for president in the 2010 elections.

GMA Network’s late night newscast Saksi quoted Wednesday Mrs Marcos as saying that her son is very much qualified to lead.

The former first lady at the same time announced that she has no plan to seek any elective position in 2010.

Last month, Bongbong has hinted at his intention to seek a national position in the 2010 elections, according to a report posted on online news site Bombo Radyo.

Bongbong Marcos did not give details except for saying he has enough experience from running a provincial government in the past and now he wants to try leading the nation.

At stake in the 2010 elections are the presidency, the vice presidency and 12 seats in the Senate.

Bongbong ran for a Senate seat in 1995 under the opposition ticket but lost.

Before becoming a representative of the 2nd district of Ilocos Norte, he was elected governor of the province in the late ‘80s.

Bongbong is the son of the late strongman Ferdinand Edralin Marcos, who was Philippine president from 1965 to 1986.

http://www.gmanews.tv/story/124340/Imelda-wants-Bongbong-to-run-for-president

If he wins, maybe he could appoint Jackie Enrile as Defense Secretary. They're both juniors :lol:

Feature: Ilocos Norte gimmick spots and flea markets

by Cristina Arzadon

Laoag City --

The Plaza.

Before reaching Ilocos Norte's capital city of Laoag, you can't miss an imposing three-storey brick structure along the national road in nearby San Nicolas town.

The 365 Plaza has carved a niche as a hip place for young professionals and city dwellers without the cramped atmosphere that normally goes with any mall. The family-run commercial stop will soon become the home of Robinson's mall chain which will sit right next to the Plaza.

San Nicolas Mayor Alfredo Valdez, whose family put up the structure, said the Plaza combined the richness of Ilocano heritage and today's rage for crass commercialism.

The typically laidback Ilocos province is no exempt from the wave of modernization but locals continue to enjoy a touch of home with patches of earthen bricks that have become an icon of Ilocano heritage adorning the complex.

The Plaza is a complete stop for wining and dining, a spa, a foodcourt for Ilocano cuisine from the renowned empanada, bagnet (deep-fried pork chunks) and longganiza (pork-stuffed sausage). A section of the ground level is home to native products.

DAP-AYAN (Meeting place)

Sitting right at the heart of Laoag City is the Dap-ayyan (the vernacular for a meeting place among village folks) which houses yet rows upon rows of snack bars and road-side type eateries. The foodcourt is an alternative to those churned out by fastfood chains.

The food. Each stall has its own interpretation of the empanada meal or the Ilocano's answer to the Mexican taco. The Ilocos empanada is a hearty meal usually made of grated papaya, mongo, egg, Ilocano sausage or longganiza and wrapped in an orange-colored crispy flour. Those with a heavier appetite may order a "double variant" where two pieces of longganiza can be stuffed. A tourist once departed from the usual fillings and asked an empanada maker to stuff his order with bagnet.

Goods at the Dap-ayan are sold at lesser prohibitive prices which makes it a go-to place for students and professionals with a tight budget. Tatto artists have set up their own booth which had since been an attraction for the young. Tourists could also check out several stalls where products that are unique to each town are on sale. Products sold range from handwoven cloth (called inabel), decorative and functional items and food products that are perfect for short travels. A sip of the native wine basi is harmless before leaving the place.

Food galore

Ilocos cuisine is far from the Tagalog's old perception of the region's character. In the past, people from the South gave Ilocos the monicker, " Saluyot Republic." The branding was not to disparage but was meant to symbolize the Ilocanos' love for leafy vegetables which non-residents consider as weeds.

Those who want to have a taste of authentic Ilocano dishes could visit La Preciosa restaurant which is a stone's throw from the Provincial Capitol. The restaurant has endured decades of business reverses and competitions and remained an icon in the food business.

While the establishment sells itself as a fine dining place, restaurant owner Pamela Zaragosa welcomes everyone as any generous host to a padaya (local term for feast) would.

The restaurant's specialties are the all-time favourites pinakbet (vegetable dish topped with bagnet), and imbaliktad (which means to turn over) made of meat that is partially cooked and stewed in ginger and a little of papait (or pork bile) giving it a faintly bitter taste.


Night market

Owing to its popularity among locals and tourists, Laoag City has relocated its night market to a more accessible and conducive place for shoppers. The night market is now conveniently located at the sunset boulevard right across city hall and below the four-lane Laoag Padsan Bridge.

City Mayor Michael Fariñas had transformed what was formerly a dark and decaying section of the Padsan river dike to a well-lighted boulevard complete with shaded structures for those spending time gazing at the majestic view of the Laoag bridge at night.

The night market, which opens at 7 p.m. twice weekly on Wednesday and Friday, is a blend of local and imported products from China at bargain prices. Tourists can have a good buy of handcrafted products and roadside native delicacies while enjoying the view of the Padsan River.

Night shopping is more comfortable and one could have a leisure walk to the nearby city plaza without the day traffic that has become notorious because of the heavy volume of vehicles plying the streets. (PIA-Laoag)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/default.asp?m=12&fi=p081014.htm&no=A4

hello mga bai, am new here this thread am so in loved this place so i might visit here soon.. how long it takes traveling from manila to laoag city and how much the bus fares.. thanx mga bai from CEBU... :) thanx

Ilocos Norte observes Statistics Month

by Nova C. De Rosas

Laoag City -- The Provincial Planning and Development Office has successfully concluded the statistical quiz show held October 17 at the Provincial Capitol Auditorium with secondary and tertiary students from among the schools in Ilocos Norte and Laoag City in attendance.

The activity has been yearly observed by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 647 issued in September 20, 1990 declaring the month of October of every year as the National Statistics Month. The annual event seeks to promote nationwide awareness and appreciation of the value of statistics and to elicit the cooperation of the general public in upgrading the quality standards of statistics in the country.

This years theme "Demand-Driven Statistics Key to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development," is in one way to answer the impact of the global economic slowdown.

The winners in the secondary level were: Stephen Dann V. del Rosario; Sarah C. Sanchez; Ritchelle O. Lorenzo and their coach, Mr. Sherwin R. Andres from Ilocos Norte College of Arts and Trade (INCAT) - First Prize; Alexie Aglipay; Renalyn Portugal; Ralph Renz Pambid and coach-Neva Jane P. Yadao of Curriamo National High School- Second Prize and Kyle Zmelic Castueras; Jefferson Campus; John Vincent Toribio and their coach, Mrs. Miravi B. Baltazar and Mrs. Aurelia V. dela Cruz of Solsona National High School.

In the college level, the winners were: (First prize) Northwestern University represented by Ronjoy Zapanta, Jay Lord Galarce, Princess Muñoz and their coach, Mr. Jerson E. Sebastian; (Second) Mariano Marcos State University represented by Jonas Paul dela Cruz' Peniel Montante, Marc Jann Paz and their coarches, Mr. Floresto Franco and Ms. Jeanne Valerie Agbayani and (Third Prize) DATA CENTER PHILIPPINES, Laoag City represented by: Neva jane Casauran, Edison Montoya Jr, and james Verdadero and coaches Mrs. Carina M. de la Cruz and Mr. Florencio Asencion

The winners are Ilocos Norte's representative to the regional competition. The winners received cash prizes of P3,000; P2,000 and P1,000 respectively

The Board of Judges was composed of: (Secondary) Mr. Winifred Malapit, (DepEd)-Chairiman Engr. Pedro Agcaoili, Jr. (PPDO) Engr. Clifford A. Agbayani (DILG) Mr. Alejandro G. Rapacon, Jr. (NSO) (Tertiary Level) Mr. Alejandro G. Rapacon, Jr. (NSO) Chairman, Mr. Ronald Gene A. Valdriz (DWFB Radyo Ng Bayan), Engr. Pedro S. Agcaoili, Jr. (PPDO) Miss Ma Cristina C. Arzadon, (Philippine Information Agency) and Mr. Mario Piedad (DTI). (PIA)

http://www.pia.gov.ph/default.asp?m=12&fi=p081021.htm&no=34

i'm from honolulu
lumaki sa Laoag City:banana::banana:
musta mga repapeeps:banana:


kakabakasyon lang ng family ko(di ako nakasama) sa Laoag.
balita ko malaki daw talaga yung Mall sa San Nicolas. lucky me kasi walking distance lang yung mall sa barangay namin. yung barangay kasi naman, paglabas mo ay San Nicolas na. mismong yung location ng Mall na sinasabi niyo. dati binabaha kami. pero since nung tinayo yung mall, na divert na yung baha sa ibang lugar:lol:

sabi meron din daw itatayong Robinsons yata malapit sa Gabu Airport tapos yung isa pang mall sa Central.

pero hindi ba prone to Earthquake(s) ang Laoag City mismo lalo na sa sentro? kasi sabi ng father ko may building daw dati sa sentro tapos gumuho dahil sa lindol. pero ewan ko na lang ngayon kasi matagal na rin yung La Eliana Hotel:lol:

yung picture ng Marian Marcos Stadium naaalala ko diyan hineheld ang mga sport activities ng INCAT(studyante ako):lol:

kawawa yung 5 Sisters at Mart One kung andiyan na ang RObinsons at SM. katapat mismo nung LCES yung 5 Sisters Mall at isang block lang ang layo nung Mart One Shopping Mall.

pumunta sila sa Subli-Subli(Curimao Beach) at tsaka sa Pagudpud. mas maganda daw ng kaunti yung Pagudpud kaya lang ang layo sa Laoag:nuts:


mukhang namemaintain ng Laoag yung kanilang kalinisan at kagandahan. namimiss ko na ang Fiesta sa ilalim ng tulay:bash:

Leilanie G. Adriano

__________



Laoag International Airport

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/159/414525092_524e41b843.jpg?v=0
Photo by ela_china (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ela_china/414525092/in/set-72157600267264016/)

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1157/630949357_4ebe289c43.jpg?v=0
Photo by Shinji Ikari (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ikari/sets/72157600499238852/)


:ohno:yung ate ko muntik makipagaway sa Gabu Airport. may isang porter na matanda na nagsabing itse-check daw niya yung lahat ng balikbayan box. as in lahat lahat. nung tinanong ng bayaw ko na bakit daw sa Manila hindi binuksan tapos sa Gabu kinailangang buksan lahat lahat? nagalit yata yung porter at sinabing "ibabalik ko lahat tong mga box niyo sa Manila kung ayaw niyong sumunod sa patakaran namin"...

nakita kasi niyang binigyan ng tip ng ate ko yung isang porter. nung matapos na ang gusot, sunod ng sunod yung matandang porter. sabi ng father ko "bigyan niyo na kasi". sabi naman ng ate ko dahil sa sobrang inis sa matandang porter, "bat ko pa yan bibigyan" sinabi ito ng pagkalakas lakas habang naririnig nung porter:lol:

gusto lang pala ng TIP nung porter na yun lol.

ang sa kanila lang naman ay bakit pa bubuksan eh nakapasa ito sa Honolulu tapos sa NAIA. ni hindi naman nila nahawakan yung box kasi diniretso agad ito sa pang LAOAG na eroplano. as if naman may maisusuksok ka dun:cheers: i understand their "rules" kuno. pero sana naman common sense din minsan. first time nagbakasyon in 5 years tapos ganun ang mangyayari sa GABU haha:lol:

:ohno:yung ate ko muntik makipagaway sa Gabu Airport. may isang porter na matanda na nagsabing itse-check daw niya yung lahat ng balikbayan box. as in lahat lahat. nung tinanong ng bayaw ko na bakit daw sa Manila hindi binuksan tapos sa Gabu kinailangang buksan lahat lahat? nagalit yata yung porter at sinabing "ibabalik ko lahat tong mga box niyo sa Manila kung ayaw niyong sumunod sa patakaran namin"...

nakita kasi niyang binigyan ng tip ng ate ko yung isang porter. nung matapos na ang gusot, sunod ng sunod yung matandang porter. sabi ng father ko "bigyan niyo na kasi". sabi naman ng ate ko dahil sa sobrang inis sa matandang porter, "bat ko pa yan bibigyan" sinabi ito ng pagkalakas lakas habang naririnig nung porter:lol:

gusto lang pala ng TIP nung porter na yun lol.

ang sa kanila lang naman ay bakit pa bubuksan eh nakapasa ito sa Honolulu tapos sa NAIA. ni hindi naman nila nahawakan yung box kasi diniretso agad ito sa pang LAOAG na eroplano. as if naman may maisusuksok ka dun:cheers: i understand their "rules" kuno. pero sana naman common sense din minsan. first time nagbakasyon in 5 years tapos ganun ang mangyayari sa GABU haha:lol:

Sir please excuse my ignorance. Saan po ba yung Gabu airport parang ngayon ko lang po narinig yan?

^^
Laoag International Airport is also known as Gabu Airport or Gabu International Airport. Laoag Inter...Airport is the official name pero mas tinatawag itong Gabu Airport ng mga Laoageno.

yung nakakabit na name ng airpot ay LIA pero yung mga sign sa kalsada, gabu airport nakalagay.:banana:



-====================
bdw, i heard may plano ang GMA 7 na magkaroon ng local programming sa Ilocos Norte(to be build in Laoag). local news at local advertisement(s) ang dalawa sa tinatarget nila pantapat sa Tv patrol Laoag.:)

bale may balitang amianan na sa Pangasinan(covered ang Baguio and Ilocos Sur).

maganda Laoag City, I have been there once and spent the night at a small Hotel, and it feels like I was teleportedd to the past...ang ganda, i am planning to visit the place again.

Are there any plan in the future to extend and widen the runway for bigger aircraft?

hi! good pm any latest mall updates in ilocos?

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/laoagcityhospital.jpg
Airport Road, Brgy Nalbo, Laoag City

^ According to Ilocos Times, this project is not yet a done deal - another kuskos-balungos case?

According to the latest article from Ilocos Times, DOH(?) or whoever is incharge for the funding gave the go signal.

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/laoagcityhospital.jpg
Airport Road, Brgy Nalbo, Laoag City

wow^^Congratulations!

.. ilan kaya ang bed capacity niyan

120 MW wind farm set to be erected in Pasuquin
But PGIN files motion for permanent injunction vs upgrade



By Leilanie G. Adriano
Staff Reporters


TRANZEN Group Inc., a local firm headed by businessman Salvador Zamora II and a British-based fund management group are set to put up a 120-megawatt wind power farm in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte, Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Mariano V. Marcos II reported.

If plans don’t miscarry, the proposed 120-MW wind farm worth approximately US$250 million would be thrice as much as Northwind’s power farm in Bangui, Ilocos Norte.

Marcos accompanied British Ambassador to the Philippines Peter Beckingham, along with Zamora and TC Kundi. Berkerly Energy managing director, in paying a courtesy call to Ilocos Norte Gov. Michael M. Keon at the Provincial Capitol.

Berkerly Energy is a private equity fund specializing in renewable energy infrastructure investments in Asia.

Amidst problems on financial sector, Beckingham told reporters at the Capitol that the “British government welcomes climate change and alternative energy as a major priority” for investment because “climate change is absolutely crucial for every country.”

After studying Ilocos Norte’s investment potential for “green energy”, he said a British company with business partners from the country is looking for a significant number of investments in the Philippines, which include the province, being the first in Southeast Asia to venture on wind farms.

“We are very pleased the Philippines and Ilocos Norte will be one of the first sites for this new development from the United Kingdom with Philippine government,” the British envoy said.

The proposed wind farm, which would be located near the Sapat base of the Philippine Airforce, will be a 60-40 joint venture between Tranzen and Berkerly Energy.

After meeting with concerned local officials in the province, one of the biggest wind farms on the province is expected to start on the last quarter of 2009 or next year.

Aside from considering renewable energy investment in the province, Beckingham said British nationals are fascinated to try Ilocos Norte’s surfing destination like Pagudpud and to bring in more tourists here.

Part of the itinerary of the British envoy’s two-day visit is to try surfing in Pagudpud’s surfing sites.

Hello Ilocos Norte!

Anybody from Sarrat here? My mothers maiden family name is Farolan, originally from Sarrat, Ilocos Norte. We are now here in Surigao City, REgion XIII. Im just trying to link up with long lost relatives. Ive never visited Sarrat but hopefully one of these days makapunta din jan and visit the hometown of my mother.

Rendering
http://i270.photobucket.com/albums/jj111/inol_bucket/robinsons_ilocos.jpg

Fenced Site
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/robinsonsilocospano02-1.jpg

Mcdonald's @ 365 Center
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/mcdo365-02.jpg

Sunrise
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/sierramadre1208-01.jpg

how long is the trip from laoag to la union?

3-5 hours on a bus. Much faster on a private vehicle.

Howdy BoNduRanT, are you based in Laoag?
How is the IN Hotel & Convention Center construction coming along?
Is it finished? Operational? Haven't seen any picture of that structure.
Can you post?

No, I'm based in Manila. I went home a week ago. I'm not sure if the Ilocos Norte Hotel and Convention Center is finished. Was'nt able to pass by that area while I was there.

http://img001.picture2life.net/2996375/Merry_Christmas_Greeting_web-large_highest.jpg

http://i373.photobucket.com/albums/oo174/erwintheater/SSC.jpg

http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/5738/mapofnagave1.png

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/8075/legazpixmasat3.jpg
Photo by when milko shoots (http://flickr.com/photos/when_milko_shoots/)

:banana::banana::banana:Merry Christmas to everyone!!!:banana::banana::banana:

http://www.veterinaria.org/imagenes/tarjeta03.gif

From SSC-Zamboanga Family

http://img26.picoodle.com/img/img26/3/12/24/f_christmasatm_a8eb058.jpg

http://img75.imageshack.us/img75/7844/newyearsscdumaguetefq7.jpg

ALL AROUND THE WORLD CELEBRATES TONIGHT


http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll149/glittergn/newyear/newyear075.gif

http://i287.photobucket.com/albums/ll149/glittergn/happy%20new%20year%202009/15.gif


From SSC-Iligan City

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE!!!

From SSC Naga

http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n250/bobtaz08/SSC.jpg?t=1230790298

Finishing stages

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ilocosnorteconventioncenter01.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ilocosnorteconventioncenter02.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ilocosnorteconventioncenter05.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ilocosnorteconventioncenter04.jpg

As seen from Gilbert Bridge

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/laoagbridge01.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ilocosnorteconventioncenter01.jpg


Laoag's local version of Berlin's Brandenburg Gate or Paris' Arc de Triomphe? ;)

Hahaha Nah

Thanks for the photo update BoNduRanT!
I've been looking all over the internet for photos but no luck.
I think the exterior design blends well with nearby Fort Ilocandia.
Can't wait to see it.

Death of a Laoag heritage school

By Cristina Arzadon
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:13:00 01/07/2009

Filed Under: Monuments & Heritage Sites, Schools, Regional authorities

LAOAG CITY – Heritage advocates refuse to throw in the towel on the conversion of Laoag City’s heritage school to a shopping center even as the mall project appears to be a done deal.

The conversion of the Laoag Central Elementary School, housing historic Gabaldon-type buildings, to a mall has caught the attention of conservationists who foresee another heritage disaster similar to the fate of other structures and buildings with historical significance.

Based on a marker inscribed on its façade, the school building was built in 1929 after the 1.3-hectare property, owned by the Roman Catholic Church, was donated to the then town of Laoag by Nueva Segovia Bishop Santiago Sancho in 1924.

The other Gabaldon structure within the lot is the Home Economics building.

Laoag is also home to another schoolhouse, the Gabaldon Elementary School, named after Rep. Isauro Gabaldon, who sponsored Act 1801 of the National Assembly for the construction of elementary schools around the country during the American period.

Travel writer and heritage advocate Ivan Anthony Henares started posting comments on his blog and generated reactions calling attention to the demolition and relocation of the LCES building to another area.

Misplaced priorities

“Another heritage school could soon become a victim of misplaced priorities if nothing is done to stop the rampage,” said Henares, a member of the Heritage Conservation Society (HCS) board of trustees.

He echoed the community’s concern that the proposed mall would disturb the city’s historical landscape while ground movements might pose a threat to the structural stability of the ancient belfry right beside the school compound. The belfry is a major historical, cultural and religious icon.

The need to relocate the school has been the subject of discussions for many years by the city government due to the growing congestion around the premises of the school in the middle of downtown’s commercial district.

The city government started public hearings in June last year following negotiations by officials with the mall developer.

Expectedly, the project was met with stiff opposition from small businessmen and the school’s Parents-Teachers Community Association.

The business community raised the fear that the presence of a giant mall would dominate competition and eventually render small business operators bankrupt.

The school’s PTCA lamented that the historical landmark would be erased in the name of commercialization.

“Education should never be sacrificed for commercialization, no matter the perceived increase in income that the Roman Catholic Church and the city government will realize from the conversion,” the parents and teachers said in a published manifesto.

“The LCES for its more than 80 years of existence has become a historical landmark of the City of Laoag as a bastion of education,” they said.

Restoration program

The Department of Education and the HCS have embarked on a project to restore historic school buildings through a heritage program. Funds are provided to restore one heritage schoolhouse per region around the country for the benefit of teachers and students.

There is no showing, however, that the Laoag school has been lined up for rehabilitation under the program.

Mayor Michael Fariñas is mindful of the community’s sentiments but he noted that the LCES has not been declared a historic site.

“[The school] is not in its original state. It has already undergone several renovations. What is there to preserve?” he asked.

Fariñas obtained a certification from the National Historical Institute that the LCES was not among the seven sites declared national shrines and national historical landmarks in Ilocos Norte.

He said benefits and drawbacks were carefully weighed before the city government and the Catholic Church decided to push through with the school’s relocation. The project, he said, would provide job opportunities, increase city revenues and perk up business activities.

“Ultimately, the LCES is no longer convenient for education purposes. Children and teachers are surrounded by constant distractions,” he said.

The expanding business district is a growing threat to the school necessitating its relocation to another area, the mayor said.

“We are not sacrificing education. We are offering a healthier environment for our children,” he said.

The mall project is covered by a 25-year lease agreement entered into by the city government, the Catholic Church and Pampanga-based mall developer Bellagio Holdings Inc.

The agreement was signed in December last year. The developers have not indicated when construction will begin.

Under the agreement, the school will be relocated to a five-hectare lot fronting the Laoag bishop’s residence at the northern section and away from downtown.

[cross-posted from source: inquirer.net] (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/regions/view/20090107-181820/Death-of-a-Laoag-heritage-school)

Finishing stages

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ilocosnorteconventioncenter01.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ilocosnorteconventioncenter02.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ilocosnorteconventioncenter05.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/ilocosnorteconventioncenter04.jpg


Wow.... is this located inside Laoag City itself or in the adjacent towns?

Death of a Laoag heritage school

By Cristina Arzadon
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:13:00 01/07/2009

Filed Under: Monuments & Heritage Sites, Schools, Regional authorities

LAOAG CITY – Heritage advocates refuse to throw in the towel on the conversion of Laoag City’s heritage school to a shopping center even as the mall project appears to be a done deal.

The conversion of the Laoag Central Elementary School, housing historic Gabaldon-type buildings, to a mall has caught the attention of conservationists who foresee another heritage disaster similar to the fate of other structures and buildings with historical significance.

Based on a marker inscribed on its façade, the school building was built in 1929 after the 1.3-hectare property, owned by the Roman Catholic Church, was donated to the then town of Laoag by Nueva Segovia Bishop Santiago Sancho in 1924.

The other Gabaldon structure within the lot is the Home Economics building.

Laoag is also home to another schoolhouse, the Gabaldon Elementary School, named after Rep. Isauro Gabaldon, who sponsored Act 1801 of the National Assembly for the construction of elementary schools around the country during the American period.

Travel writer and heritage advocate Ivan Anthony Henares started posting comments on his blog and generated reactions calling attention to the demolition and relocation of the LCES building to another area.

Misplaced priorities

“Another heritage school could soon become a victim of misplaced priorities if nothing is done to stop the rampage,” said Henares, a member of the Heritage Conservation Society (HCS) board of trustees.

He echoed the community’s concern that the proposed mall would disturb the city’s historical landscape while ground movements might pose a threat to the structural stability of the ancient belfry right beside the school compound. The belfry is a major historical, cultural and religious icon.

The need to relocate the school has been the subject of discussions for many years by the city government due to the growing congestion around the premises of the school in the middle of downtown’s commercial district.

The city government started public hearings in June last year following negotiations by officials with the mall developer.

Expectedly, the project was met with stiff opposition from small businessmen and the school’s Parents-Teachers Community Association.

The business community raised the fear that the presence of a giant mall would dominate competition and eventually render small business operators bankrupt.

The school’s PTCA lamented that the historical landmark would be erased in the name of commercialization.

“Education should never be sacrificed for commercialization, no matter the perceived increase in income that the Roman Catholic Church and the city government will realize from the conversion,” the parents and teachers said in a published manifesto.

“The LCES for its more than 80 years of existence has become a historical landmark of the City of Laoag as a bastion of education,” they said.

Restoration program

The Department of Education and the HCS have embarked on a project to restore historic school buildings through a heritage program. Funds are provided to restore one heritage schoolhouse per region around the country for the benefit of teachers and students.

There is no showing, however, that the Laoag school has been lined up for rehabilitation under the program.

Mayor Michael Fariñas is mindful of the community’s sentiments but he noted that the LCES has not been declared a historic site.

“[The school] is not in its original state. It has already undergone several renovations. What is there to preserve?” he asked.

Fariñas obtained a certification from the National Historical Institute that the LCES was not among the seven sites declared national shrines and national historical landmarks in Ilocos Norte.

He said benefits and drawbacks were carefully weighed before the city government and the Catholic Church decided to push through with the school’s relocation. The project, he said, would provide job opportunities, increase city revenues and perk up business activities.

“Ultimately, the LCES is no longer convenient for education purposes. Children and teachers are surrounded by constant distractions,” he said.

The expanding business district is a growing threat to the school necessitating its relocation to another area, the mayor said.

“We are not sacrificing education. We are offering a healthier environment for our children,” he said.

The mall project is covered by a 25-year lease agreement entered into by the city government, the Catholic Church and Pampanga-based mall developer Bellagio Holdings Inc.

The agreement was signed in December last year. The developers have not indicated when construction will begin.

Under the agreement, the school will be relocated to a five-hectare lot fronting the Laoag bishop’s residence at the northern section and away from downtown.

[cross-posted from source: inquirer.net] (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/regions/view/20090107-181820/Death-of-a-Laoag-heritage-school)

Woohoo! SSC-Philippines' very own resident heritage conservationist is featured! :cheer:

Wow.... is this located inside Laoag City itself or in the adjacent towns?It's still in Laoag - city outskirts...
Close by Fort Ilocandia me thinks

The complex is located in Paoay, near Malacañan of the North. 5 mins drive from Fort Ilocandia

Lovely hotel. I love the architecture: subdued and elegant :okay:

The complex is located in Paoay, near Malacañan of the North. 5 mins drive from Fort Ilocandia
I stand corrected.
All the while I thought it's inside Laoag...
Thanks for the photos nevertheless.
Landscaping na lang ba ang kulang?

No problem. I think so, landscaping and interior furnishings.

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c3/abercromb24/kaangrianfalls.jpg

^^ Bee-you-tea-full! :okay:

Kapurpurawan, Burgos, Ilocos Norte by choochay (http://flickr.com/photos/choochay/) Flickr
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3131/3165818742_403a46fee6.jpg

Bangui Windmills, Bangui, Ilocos Norte by adosilog (http://flickr.com/photos/adosilog/) Flickr
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3121/2836509226_bd91db0cc5_o.jpg

La Paz Sand Dunes, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2034/2258154242_df4135c938.jpg
StormCyrpt (http://flickr.com/photos/storm-crypt/) Flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2260/2466967841_6cd932da4e_o.jpg
Edwin Loyola (http://flickr.com/photos/edwinloyola/) Flickr

Paoay Sand Dunes, Paoay, Ilocos Norte

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2135/2067477383_38efe44201_o.jpg
Joey Yepez (http://flickr.com/photos/joeyyepez/) Flickr

Paoay Church, Paoay, Ilocos Norte
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3117/2568760201_bc2b7ae939.jpg
fayeshka (http://flickr.com/photos/fayeshka/) Flickr

Laoag City Hall, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3193/3114761831_07fc5dc3cc.jpg
Anton Photographer (http://flickr.com/photos/15814863@N04/) Flickr

Sinking Belltower of Laoag, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2376/2087984969_9e099cf920_b.jpg
[mac][mac] (http://flickr.com/photos/marcmgeronimo/) Flickr

Maira-Ira beach(Blue Lagoon), Ilocos Norte
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3176/2867199624_a3df02ec21_o.jpg
acsian05 (http://flickr.com/photos/28249287@N04/2867199624/) Flickr

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1402/1254719875_694abdd16d_b.jpg
wormwoodwood (http://flickr.com/photos/wormwoodwood/) Flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2096/2481965889_49ec0da50a_o.jpg
ang pilosopo (http://flickr.com/photos/26263939@N07/2481965889/) Flickr

Kaangrian Falls, Burgos, Ilocos Norte
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3125/2909480234_f3709800c3_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3037/2909480242_5a42423a2e_o.jpg


Kaibigan Falls, Ilocos Norte
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3026/3045520614_d45aaa8f99_o.jpg

All photos bykabsat (http://flickr.com/photos/kabsat/) Flickr

Sitio Remedios, Currimao, Ilocos Norte

Website: www.sitioremedios.com (http://www.sitioremedios.com)

http://www.sitioremedios.com/_newsdata/3/object/about_03.jpg
From website

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3270/2855838371_7c4a77bd98_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3052/2854904157_49654c0f0d.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3043/2854852065_a6e8578f3e.jpg?v=0
by santoestrella (http://flickr.com/photos/santosestrella/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2210/2157475587_e842423572.jpg?v=0
by Redsimba (http://flickr.com/photos/redsimba/)

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1028/551635965_a4718decc7.jpg
by Anton1024 (http://flickr.com/photos/anton1024/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2396/2526568441_51c94cf419.jpg
by diamonds_in_the_soles_of_ her_shoes (http://flickr.com/photos/diamonds_in_the_soles_of_her_shoes/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2363/2367278257_6cb02ba6e9.jpg
by Montemayor (http://flickr.com/photos/7210723@N06/)

I maybe from Ilocos Norte but I have never been to some of these places - breathtaking sights and views.

Hello Laoag thread... I'm planning to visit Ilocandia this coming march.. what cheap hotel/tourist inn can you recommend? i searched the net and i got Tiffany or the north view... any feedbacks about this hotels? then the following day I'm heading to Pagudpud but I want to commute to feel the excitement.... I will be staying there for 1 night.. again what nice resort?

are the patapat viaduct, lighthouse and bangui windmills near to the pagudpud resorts? or from laoag i should first drop by burgos for the lighthouse then bangui then proceed to pagudpud proper? are there frequent jeeps or buses from the main road going to these places? say dropping by burgos then take a jeep or tricycle to bangui then another jeep or tric to pagudpud???

lastly guys from pagudpud, are there any buses bound directly for vigan? how frequent? or i should drop by again to laoag and then look for public transpo there for vigan?

what about the sand dunes and the paoay church? can I go to these places by half day only? my flight back to Manila is in the evening

thanks so much guys

^^
I can only guarantee you that there are ordinary and de luxe buses from Cagayan like GV Florida and RCJ lines going to Manila via Laoag and some inter-provincial buses plying the Santiago-Tuguegarao-Laoag-Vigan route so you can take any of these buses on your way to Vigan. Enjoy your trip and please post some pictures OK?

...Nag push through ba ang Robinsons diyan sa Ilocos???

thanks.....so along our way to Pagudpud from Laoag city we can drop by Burgos and Bangui to see the lighthouse, falls and the WindMills? from Bangui how far is Pagudpud? are there Jeepneys from Burgos or Bangui to Pagudpud?


^^
I can only guarantee you that there are ordinary and de luxe buses from Cagayan like GV Florida and RCJ lines going to Manila via Laoag and some inter-provincial buses plying the Santiago-Tuguegarao-Laoag-Vigan route so you can take any of these buses on your way to Vigan. Enjoy your trip and please post some pictures OK?

attitude2win: Sent you a private message

Laoag Sinking Belltower
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2269/2258084768_68d29428fc_o.jpg
by Macky Sy (http://www.flickr.com/photos/23759762@N08/)

View from Cape Bojeador Lighthouse
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/114/303197774_f111041a96_o.jpg
by Roy Dela Cruz (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rgdc/)

Paoay Lake from Fort Ilocandia Golf Club
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2410/1743146330_4de951bfd4_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2368/1742277903_321ca23e76_o.jpg
by Julian & Susan (http://www.flickr.com/photos/juliansussan/)

...Nag push through ba ang Robinsons diyan sa Ilocos???
I believe it's under construction.
Bondurant posted some pics of the site being fenced-in...
Sana naman matuloy ito - dahil parang di matutuloy yung mall diyan sa Laoag (LCES)...

Wow.... is this located inside Laoag City itself or in the adjacent towns?

This one is still located inside Laoag, particularly Brgy. Balacad. napagkakamalan lang na part na siya ng Paoay dahil sa sobrang lapit na nito sa Paoay.

I believe it's under construction.
Bondurant posted some pics of the site being fenced-in...
Sana naman matuloy ito - dahil parang di matutuloy yung mall diyan sa Laoag (LCES)...

Sana matuloy pa rin. MOA has been signed already with Bellagio Holdings (aka Puregold).

Kaangrian Falls, Burgos, Ilocos Norte
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3125/2909480234_f3709800c3_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3037/2909480242_5a42423a2e_o.jpg


Kaibigan Falls, Ilocos Norte
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3026/3045520614_d45aaa8f99_o.jpg

All photos bykabsat (http://flickr.com/photos/kabsat/) Flickr

^^ Great pix of ilocos norte, thanks for sharing this info, another beautiful sight to visit the north... thanks bondurant

[QUOTE=BoNduRanT;31019422]Laoag City Hall, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3193/3114761831_07fc5dc3cc.jpg
Anton Photographer (http://flickr.com/photos/15814863@N04/) Flickr

^^ when was this photo taken? i like this view of the city hall, simply unique and beautiful... the present landscape isnt that attractive as in the previous IMO.

http://i580.photobucket.com/albums/ss246/frederickcar/Laoag.jpg


Just want to share me Laoag City Hall Picture.

http://i580.photobucket.com/albums/ss246/frederickcar/laoagbridge.jpg

Found this picture of an old postcard being sold by an Argentinian seller, featuring Gilbert Bridge of Laoag. Ganito pala ang Gilbert Bridge noon.

http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/vv316/guitarose/atobuilding.jpg

I believe it's under construction.
Bondurant posted some pics of the site being fenced-in...
Sana naman matuloy ito - dahil parang di matutuloy yung mall diyan sa Laoag (LCES)...

Here are some pix of the on going robinsons ilocosnorte construction ...

http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/vv316/guitarose/fence1.jpg

http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/vv316/guitarose/fence.jpg

http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/vv316/guitarose/ongoingconstruction.jpg

Coming in 2010.................. . the BALAI Condominiums at 365 Center

http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/vv316/guitarose/balai1.jpg

http://i695.photobucket.com/albums/vv316/guitarose/balai.jpg