Side Trip in the North

Facade of Paoay Church in Ilocos Norte (Photo taken using Liz's camera)

After relaxing in Pagudpud, take time to visit several sights in Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. We went to Paoay Church on our way home. According to www.waypoints.ph, it is a dream come true to be able to visit Paoay Church,the best known earthquake Baroque church in the Philippines which has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. The cornerstone of the church was laid by the Augustinian missionaries in 1704 while the cornerstone of the belfry was laid in 1793. The people already used it even before completion in 1894,but it was formally inaugurated on February 28,1896. It is said that large coral stones were used for the lower level of the church structure,and bricks were used for the upper levels. The walls which were made of coral blocks,tree sap,lumber and stucco-plastered bricks are 1.67 meters (more than 3 feet) thick,and are supported by 24 massive buttresses of intricate design.The church was partially destroyed twice by earthquakes in 1706 and 1927.In the restoration,permanent columns were built to support the ceiling. Today,this uniquely beautiful church still stands, wowing tourists with its majestic structure of Oriental,Gothic and Baroque influences.

Corner stone of PaoayChurch (Photo taken using Liz's camera)

Paoay Church's bell tower (Photo taken using Liz's camera)

Paoay Church bell tower (Photo taken using Liz's camera)

When you drive a couple of minutes, you may visit the moselium of Marcos and the Marcos Musuem.

On your way to Vigan, you will pass by Quirino Bridge that separates Ilocos Norte and Sur. It was breath taking. You may try their local empanada and my personal favorite Basi, not to mention the vigan longanisa and other local dishes. The Heritage Site in Crisologo Streets will always remind you of the lifestyle during the Spanish Era. You may also buy souvenirs and other delicacies made by the locals.

These cities have their own charm which you cannot find in our places. They managed to sustain development while maintaining the richness of their heritage. It’s worth the long drive.

Life’s a Beach in Pagudpud

I’ve been to Pugudgud, Ilocos Norte twice and I must say it is my ideal beach. For me, going to the beach is a time to have fun while being one with nature. We stayed at Polaris Beach House with my officemates/friends. It’s a simple beach house (compared to other resorts in the area) but you would get a good ambiance and warm welcome of its staff. As the house is being managed by Ate Me-Ann, they always make sure to give you comfort.

The coastal resort town of Pagupud is located in the northernmost tip of Luzon and bounded by the town of Bangui in the south, Cordillera Mountain in the east, town of Adams, Cagayan and South China Sea in the western and northern parts. It is 45 miles north of Laoag City and around 350 miles north of Manila. Pagudpud is famous for its white-sand beaches and blue water.

The Blue Lagoon located northward is considered as an emerging attraction because of its secluded beach. It is found on Maira-ira Point. 

Pagudpud sunset with my office friends in silhouette

One of the things that made me biased on Pagudpud is its simplicity. You can walk around the beach without hearing noises coming from a nearby bar and you can reflect and just commune with nature. Though you will find several resorts in Brgy. Saud, it manages to maintain its calmness especially as the sun sets within your eyes. If you want to look for other beaches in the area, you may go to Blue Lagoon that is undeveloped but features a lovely beach that is at par with that of Saud. They also have what they call ‘Boracay of the North’ which you may reach when you walk northward from your beach front. On my first trip, we took a boat ride to reach that part of the beach only to find out that you can go there on foot. Tsk!

Pagudpud beach front (Photo taken using Liz's camera)



If you’re palate leads you to seafoods and local dishes, you may ask the local Carinderia to cook for you for a minimal amount. As a side trip, you may also visit the Patapat viaduct when you go northward and the Windmill in Bangui before going back to Manila.

Windmill in Bangui, Ilocos Norte (Photo taken using Liz's Camera)