Marcos
,Marcos is a municipality in the province of Ilocos Norte, Philippines. It was named after former President Ferdinand Marcos, who is known to have roots in the area. The town is mainly agricultural, with rice production being a primary industry.
Marcos is also home to historical sites such as the Malacañang of the North, a presidential museum and former official residence of the Marcos family.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Beach Relaxation
morning
:Start your day at White Beach, basking in the sun and enjoying the soft sand. Grab a fresh fruit shake from a local vendor as you soak in the beautiful views.
afternoon
:Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachfront restaurant offering local seafood dishes. Afterward, take a refreshing swim or try some water sports like paddleboarding.
evening
:Stroll along the beach as the sun sets, capturing the stunning colors in the sky. Dine at a cozy restaurant with live music, enjoying the vibrancy of the evening.
Island Hopping Adventure
morning
:Begin your day by embarking on an island hopping tour to explore nearby destinations. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters and witness vibrant marine life.
afternoon
:Visit secluded beaches for a picnic lunch, enjoying the tranquility of the islands. Engage in beach games or relax under a palm tree.
evening
:Return to Marcos and unwind at a local beach bar. Enjoy a sunset cocktail as the stars begin to sparkle in the night sky.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse traditions and festivals.
- Beautiful natural landscapes including beaches, mountains, and rice terraces.
- Growing economy with opportunities in tourism, agriculture, and business.
- Strategic location for trade and commerce in Southeast Asia.
- Warm climate and hospitable people.
Bad
- High levels of poverty and economic inequality in some areas.
- Issues with corruption and governance.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes.
- Infrastructural challenges, including traffic congestion in urban areas.
- Environmental concerns, particularly regarding deforestation and pollution.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in Mount Pulag
Explore the stunning landscapes of Mount Pulag, the highest peak in Luzon, known for its sea of clouds and diverse flora and fauna.
Visit La Mesa Eco Park
Enjoy a day of nature walks, biking, and outdoor activities in the lush surroundings of La Mesa Eco Park, perfect for families and adventure seekers.
Bird Watching at the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center
Engage in bird watching at this vast green space, which is home to various local and migratory bird species along with other wildlife.
Kayaking at the Pagsanjan Falls
Embark on an exciting kayak trip through lush canyons leading to the majestic Pagsanjan Falls, a thrilling outdoor experience.
Camping at Mount Arayat National Park
Pitch a tent and enjoy the serene environment of Mount Arayat National Park, surrounded by nature with opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Marcos with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Batong Buhay
A popular viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Iglesia ni Cristo Central Temple
A remarkable architectural structure with a scenic location, providing great photo opportunities.
Mount Polis
A high vantage point offering breathtaking views of the Cordillera Mountain Range and sunrise/sunset photo opportunities.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Empanada
A popular deep-fried pastry filled with savory ingredients such as ground meat, shredded vegetables, and sometimes egg. Best enjoyed at the Empanadaan in Batac City, where it is said to be the best in the region.
Must-Try!
Pinakbet
A traditional Filipino vegetable dish made from mixed sautéed vegetables that typically include squash, eggplant, okra, and bitter melon, flavored with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste). Try it at local eateries and carinderias for an authentic taste.
Bagnet
Crispy deep-fried pork belly that is a local favorite. Enjoy this dish at the Bagnet House in Laoag City for the best and most authentic experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Marcos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Paoay Night Market
An evening market offering a wide variety of street food including barbecue skewers, grilled seafood, and local delicacies like tupig (grilled rice cake) and bibingka (rice cake). It's a great place to sample a variety of local flavors in one spot.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Elders
In Marcos, as in many parts of the Philippines, it is important to show respect to elders. This can be done by using appropriate titles such as 'po' and 'opo' when addressing them and by listening intently to their advice and stories.
Family-Centric Values
Family is central to Filipino culture, so it is crucial to consider family dynamics in social interactions. Being polite and considerate towards family members during gatherings is essential, as discussions often revolve around familial ties and respect.
Hospitality
Filipinos are known for their hospitality. If you are invited to someone's home, it is respectful to bring a small gift as a token of appreciation. Additionally, always be gracious and express gratitude for any food or drinks offered to you.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Marcos with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Marcos, Philippines, tipping is generally not mandatory but is appreciated in service industries such as restaurants, hotels, and taxi services. A tip of around 10% is common in restaurants if service is not included in the bill, while small change can be given to taxi drivers and hotel staff. Tipping culture may vary and is often influenced by personal experience and satisfaction with the service.
Payment
Payment practices in Marcos typically involve cash transactions, especially in smaller businesses and markets. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments and some restaurants. Mobile payment apps and digital wallets are becoming increasingly popular, allowing for a more convenient and cashless transaction experience. However, it is advisable to carry cash due to limited electronic payment options in certain areas.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Marcos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (December to May)
The best time to visit Marcos, Philippines is during the dry season, from December to May. During this time, the weather is mostly sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, diving, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Rainy Season (June to November)
The rainy season in Marcos, Philippines is from June to November. During this time, you can expect heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons. Outdoor activities may be limited, but the lush green landscapes and cooler temperatures can still offer unique experiences for those who don't mind the rain.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mount Pulag
A popular hiking destination known for its stunning sea of clouds, diverse flora and fauna, and breathtaking views from the summit, offering various trails for hikers of different skill levels.
Mount Arayat
A prominent mountain in Pampanga, featuring hiking trails that lead to its summit, providing panoramic views and cultural significance, with a variety of vegetation along the way.
Mount Banahaw
An active volcano in Quezon province, recognized for its mystical landscape, lush forests, and a variety of trails suitable for both beginner and experienced hikers.
Mount Santos
A lesser-known hiking spot near Marcos that offers serene trails and the chance to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the area, perfect for those seeking a quieter hike.
La Mesa Eco Park
Located in Quezon City, this urban park has numerous nature trails and paths for hiking, along with scenic views of the La Mesa Dam and various recreational facilities for visitors.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Marcos by plane.
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA)
Located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, this is the second busiest airport in the Philippines and serves both domestic and international flights.
Clark International Airport (CRK)
Situated in Angeles City, Pampanga, Clark International Airport serves as an alternative gateway to Manila and offers a range of international and domestic flights.
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)
Located in Pasay City, Manila, this is the main international airport serving the capital and its surrounding areas, known for a wide range of international connections.
Davao International Airport (DVO)
Located in Davao City, this airport serves as a gateway to the southern part of the Philippines and provides both domestic and international flights.
Iloilo International Airport (ILO)
Located in Cabatuan, Iloilo, this airport provides various domestic and selected international flights, connecting the Visayas region to other parts of the world.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Ilocanos
The Ilocano people are one of the most populous and predominant ethnic groups in the province of Ilocos Norte, where Marcos is located. They are known for their distinct language, culture, and contributions to agriculture and trade.
Tagalogs
While not the largest group in the region, there are significant numbers of Tagalogs who contribute to the cultural and social landscape of Marcos, particularly through migration and trade activities.
Visayans
This group includes various ethnicities from the Visayas region, many of whom have migrated to the Northern Luzon area for work and business opportunities.
Cagayanos
The Cagayanos from the neighboring province of Cagayan also form a part of the demographic landscape, engaging in commerce, agriculture, and local governance.
Bicolanos
While a smaller group in Marcos, the Bicolanos have established communities and contribute to diverse cultural practices, particularly in culinary arts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball
Basketball is the most popular sport in Marcos, often played in local courts and schools. The town has a vibrant basketball culture with local teams and community tournaments.
Volleyball
Volleyball enjoys a strong following in Marcos, especially among women and youth. Numerous leagues and school competitions are held to promote the sport.
Football (Soccer)
Football is gaining popularity in Marcos, with many young people becoming interested in the sport. Local clubs and schools are forming teams to participate in competitions.
Badminton
Badminton is a popular indoor sport in Marcos, with many people playing in local gyms and community centers. It is enjoyed by players of all ages.
Billiards
Billiards is a common recreational activity in Marcos, with many establishments offering tables for locals to enjoy. It is played casually and competitively.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Ilocano cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many establishments in Marcos, particularly in tourist areas, offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly to ensure a suitable meal.
Gluten-Free Options
Finding gluten-free options may be a bit challenging in Marcos, as many dishes contain soy sauce or other gluten-containing ingredients. However, some restaurants may offer gluten-free alternatives upon request, but it's best to inquire in advance.