Ilocos Norte Province, Philippines

Population of Ilocos Norte

As of the 2020 Census, Ilocos Norte recorded a population of 609,588 people.
In 2015, the province had a population of 602,895, reflecting a modest growth rate of 0.58%.

Location of Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Norte is located in the northwestern tip of Luzon, bordered by the South China Sea to the west and the Cordillera mountains to the east. Its capital is Laoag City.
Travelers typically reach Ilocos Norte via:
- Air: Daily flights from Manila to Laoag via Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific (approx. 1 hour).
- Land: Bus lines such as Partas and Florida offer 10–12 hour trips from Metro Manila to Laoag.
- Sea: Nearest major seaport is in San Fernando, La Union, about 4 hours south by land.

Tourist Attractions of Ilocos Norte

Paoay Church: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Earthquake Baroque architecture.
Bangui Windmills: The first power-generating wind farm in Southeast Asia, now a symbol of Ilocos Norte.
Kapurpurawan Rock Formation: A stunning white limestone formation sculpted by nature.
Patapat Viaduct: A scenic coastal bridge connecting Pagudpud to the rest of the province.
Saud Beach: Known for its white sand and tranquil waters, ideal for relaxation.
Ilocos Norte hosts several festivals, including:
- La Virgen Milagrosa Festival in Badoc (May)
- Gameng Festival in Laoag (October), celebrating Ilocano heritage
- Currilights in Currimao (October), a coastal Christmas lighting tradition

Economy of Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Norte’s economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, and services. Tourism alone contributed ₱10.4 billion to the province’s GDP in 2024.
In 2024, the province posted a GDP of ₱106.51 billion, growing 5.4% from the previous year.
It ranks among the fastest-growing provinces in Region I, with the highest GDP per capita in the region at ₱122,330.

Educational Institutions of Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Norte is home to several major institutions:
- Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) – A leading state university with campuses in Batac, Laoag, and Dingras.
- Divine Word College of Laoag – A private Catholic college offering liberal arts and business programs.
- Northern Christian College – Known for its teacher education and community development programs.
- AMA Computer College – Laoag Campus – Offers IT and business-related courses.

History of Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Norte was officially founded on February 2, 1818, following the division of the original Ilocos province.
Before Spanish colonization, the region was known for its gold mines and trade with Chinese and Japanese merchants. Locals called their language samtoy, from “sao mi toy” meaning “our language”.
Spanish explorer Juan de Salcedo arrived in 1572, establishing colonial footholds in Laoag, Currimao, and Badoc.
Today, Ilocos Norte is celebrated for its blend of heritage, resilience, and innovation.

Elected Officials of Ilocos Norte

Based on the 2025 Halalan results, the province is led by:
- Governor: Cecilia Araneta-Marcos
- Vice Governor: Matthew Marcos Manotoc
For municipal and city-level officials, visit the official election results page: Ilocos Norte Election Results.

January 7, 2026

1️⃣ Andas for Traslación 2026 now ready, with upgrades

The Andas carrying the Black Nazarene for January 9 Traslación features new steering wheel and reinforced underchassis to handle massive devotee crowds safely.

2️⃣ Over 3,500 affected by Mayon volcano unrest

NDRRMC reports 3,515 people from 964 families evacuated in Albay due to recent magmatic eruptions, ashfall, and pyroclastic flows; all in permanent danger zone.

3️⃣ Magnitude 6.4 quake hits off southern Philippines

USGS detects 6.4 quake off Davao Oriental coast—no tsunami threat reported, but locals feel shaking; no immediate damage confirmed.