CinemaBravo

The ongoing major infrastructure projects in the Ilocos Region will contribute significantly to rural development and offer advantages to small businesses throughout the nation, according to Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

During the unveiling of the Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Pagudpud last Friday, President Marcos outlined the current government’s infrastructure endeavors designed to stimulate tourism in the region.

“All these projects aim to not only expand tourism but also foster rural development, thereby strengthening the tourism industry,” he emphasized to the audience.

“I am confident that these promising developments will serve as a catalyst for further tourism success in Ilocos Norte and the Philippines moving forward,” he added.

Among the projects highlighted by the President is the scheduled construction of the Ilocos Norte Transportation Hub in February 2024. This hub is poised to alleviate urban traffic congestion and seamlessly integrate various modes of transportation upon its anticipated completion next year.

Furthermore, the government is actively advancing the enhancement of the Laoag International Airport, specifically focusing on expanding and rehabilitating the runway to accommodate larger aircraft and attract more tourists to the region. Simultaneously, funds have been allocated for the construction of new bridges and the Pancian Viaduct along the Manila North Road to enhance motorist safety.

The primary industries in Ilocos Norte encompass tourism, agriculture and fisheries, food processing, and furniture manufacturing. In the previous year, Ilocos Norte accounted for over 20 percent of tourist arrivals in Region 1, welcoming more than 3.5 million same-day visitors in 2023.

Some of the prominent tourist destinations in the province include the Kapurpurawan Rock Formation in Burgos, Balaoi Beach in Pagudpud, Malacañang of the North in Paoay, Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Burgos, Saud Beach in Pagudpud, the Sand Dunes in Paoay, and St. Augustine Church in Paoay.