Region I, also known as Ilocos Region, occupies the narrow plain between the Cordillera Central mountain range and the South China Sea.
Region I also occupies the northern portion of the Central Luzon plain, to the north-east of the Zambales Mountains.
Region I is bounded to the east by the Central Luzon region and to the south by the Cordillera Administrative Region.
Region I is highly susceptible to typhoons and other natural disasters due to its location in the country's typhoon belt.
Region 1 is renowned for producing fish sauce, bagoong, and vinegar in addition to being one of the nation's top producers of tobacco, corn, and rice.
Region 1 is a historically significant and culturally rich area with a distinctive of Filipino culture.
Ninoy Aquino International Airport, located in Pasay City, Metro Manila, is the main international gateway to the Philippines and can be used as a transit point for tourists heading to Region I.
Clark International Airport, located in Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, is not directly connected to Region I, but it is a viable alternative entry point for travelers coming from Manila.
Calle Crisologo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, is one of the most beautiful streets in the Philippines, boasting centuries-old stone houses, lovely tungsten lamps, and antique cobblestone, where horse-drawn carriages or kalesas are still used for transport.
The Metropolitan Cathedral of St Paul, also called Vigan Cathedral, is one of the most amazing historic sites in Vigan.
Urbiztondo Beach, known as the Surfing Capital of Northern Philippines, is located in San Juan, La Union and is a popular tourist spot.
Cabongoan Beach and Death Pool, located in the town of Burgos, is a remote beach that can take up to an hour from the town proper, but once you see its stretch of white sand beach and blue waters, you’ll instantly know it was worth it.
There are not a lot of accommodations in the vicinity of Hundred Islands National Park, so it would be best if you plan your trip as early as possible.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also bring a tent and camp at the beach.
Hundred Islands National Park of Alaminos City is a protected area in Pangasinan that comprises 124 islands spread out along the Lingayen Gulf.
The park is also known as “Kapulo-puloan” or “Taytay-Bakes."
Four of these islands have already been developed to attract more tourists: Governors Island, Quezon Island, Marcos Island, and Children’s Island.
Pakbet or pinakbet is a popular vegetable dish that originated from one of the northern provinces of the Philippines, Ilocos.
The vegetables used on this dish are usually grown in the back yard of every villager and are available almost all year long.
Bitter Melon, eggplant, okra, and string beans are just some of the vegetables that make up this delightful dish.
Pakbet is cooked in a clay pot called “Palayok” and Anchovy sauce (bagoong isda) is used to add flavor.
Vigan Longganisa- is a unique and flavorful sausage hailing from the Ilocos region in the Philippines.
Unlike the commonly known sweet longganisa, Vigan longganisa stands out with its small and plump appearance, bold flavors, and generous use of garlic and spices.
In this recipe blog post, we will delve into the irresitable taste of Vigan longganisa, its distinctive qualities, and how you can enjoy this delectable delicacy for a hearty breakfast.
Ilocos Empanada- another well-loved product of Ilocos is its version of an empanada.
The popular street food originated in Batac, Ilocos Norte, and is now a favorite snack even in Manila.
Ilokanos use annatto seeds to add color to its dough, making it vibrantly orange.
Inside, you’ll typically find chopped Vigan longganisa, green papaya, mung beans, and an egg.
It is then deep-fried to perfection and best,devoured as soon as it is served.
Every First Week of February, the province of Ilocos Norte holds the Pamulinawen Festival.
The festival is named after Pamulinawen, the subject of a popular Ilocano love song.
The Binakol Festival is held in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, every February 2.
The Kannawidan Festival is held in Laoag, Ilocos Norte, on February 2.
The Sillag Festival is held in Dagupan, Pangasinan, on April 30.
The Bangus Festival is held in San Fernando, La Union, on April 6-8.