Batac

Batac is a city of over 55,000 in Ilocos Norte.

Understand
Batac is a relatively young city, which have only gained its cityhood in 2007. It is about from the capital at Laoag

The city does have its share on Philippine history. Founded by the Augustinians as a town in 1587, Batac is home to historical figures, from the revolutionary general Artemio Ricarte to the infamous Marcos family.

Batac is the birthplace of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (Philippine Independent Church), better known as the Aglipayan church. It was founded by Gregorio Aglipay, who was excommunicated by the Roman Catholic Church for refusing to cut support to the revolutionary forces under Emilio Aguinaldo.

Get in
The city is along Rte 2, which bypasses the town to the west. Buses also ply this highway.

Go next

 * Paoay, a historic Spanish-era town, known not only for its heritage downtown, but also for its sand dunes