DIY TRAVEL GUIDE: Ilocos Sur

If Ilocos Norte is rich in beautiful and natural attractions, Ilocos Sur, on the other hand, is very rich in culture, heritage and history. One can let herself lost in this place, discovering the past and comparing it to the future. It's the best place to experience an Spanish-era environment.

The Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo founded Ilocos Sur. It's capital, Vigan City, Villa Fernandina (City of Ferdinand) in honor of Prince Ferdinand, firstborn son of Prince Philip of Spain. It was later on called "Ciudad Fernandina de Vigan (Ferdinand's City of Vigan). The locals called it Bigan, which later on became Vigan.

In 1999, the city was inscribed in the UNESCO's World Heritage List, with few Hispanic towns still intact and preserved.The site is describe as:

Established in the 16th century, Vigan is the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Its architecture reflects the coming together of cultural elements from elsewhere in the Philippines, from China and from Europe, resulting in a culture and townscape that have no parallel anywhere in East and South-East Asia.

Diego Silang the British appointed Governor led a revolt against the Spanish that made Ilocos an established state. He was killed by one of his friends, Miguel Vicos. His wife, Gabriela Silang, took command of the revolt and fought courageously until her capture and execution by hanging in Vigan Plaza, along with her troops.

Another notable history that happened in this province is the Battle of the Tirad Pass. The battle was fought by 60-Filipinos during the Philippine-American War led by the national hero Gregorio del Pilar in order for President Emilio Aguinaldo and his troops escape. Outnumbered by the American soldiers, they keep fighting until their last breath.

Ilocos Region is not only blessed with people who can lead, but also with beautiful places to visit. Aside from that, it can also be considered as the Tobacco capital of the Philippines. Passing along the mountains and fields, you'll see the growing tobacco plants. The province, specifically Candon City, celebrates the Tobacco Festival as thanksgiving to the abundant harvest of tobacco.