LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte — Known as the “Sunshine City,” Laoag is rapidly transforming from an agricultural stronghold into a dynamic regional growth center, attracting a new wave of investors in real estate, BPO, and renewable energy.
While Laoag’s economy remains rooted in the cultivation of rice, tobacco, and garlic, it is successfully diversifying into light manufacturing and high-value services.
- Regional Growth Center: Designated as an economic zone under the Special Economic Zone Act (RA 7916), the city offers a stable environment for light industrial and agro-eco hubs.
- BPO Hub: Recognized as a “Next Wave City,” Laoag’s strong IT-BPM infrastructure has facilitated the entry of major BPO companies, creating thousands of local jobs.
- Renewable Energy: The city is home to one of Southeast Asia’s first wind-driven power plants, established through Danish investment.
Improved infrastructure has made the city more accessible than ever, fueling a surge in tourism.
- Laoag International Airport: As the only international gateway north of Clark, it provides a 50-minute link to Manila and serves global travelers.
- Land Links: The city is connected to Metro Manila via major expressways (NLEX, SCTEX, TPLEX), facilitating smooth trade and travel.
- New Tourism Routes: In 2025, the arrival of Star Cruises’ Star Navigator at Currimao Port opened the Ilocos region to the Taiwan market.
The city’s potential is perhaps most visible in its real estate sector. National developers are moving in, most notably Megaworld Corporation, which is developing Ilocandia Coastown—an 84-hectare beachfront community that aims to redefine luxury living in the North.
Historic landmarks like the Sinking Belltower, Gabu Watch Tower, and the Tobacco Monopoly monument continue to draw visitors, serving as a reminder of the rich heritage that provides the foundation for Laoag’s modern economic “sunshine.”