Ilocos Norte has emerged as the economic powerhouse of Region 1, boasting an impressive 8.6% growth rate in 2024. This surge positions the province as the fastest-growing economy among its peers in the region. Despite facing challenges such as El Niño, La Niña, and the African swine fever outbreak, the resilience of the Ilocano community has kept the local economy robust. Key sectors driving this growth include services, accommodation, transportation, and storage, with growth rates between 15.6% and 29.7%, as reported by the Philippine Statistics Authority.
The province’s strategy to foster a business-friendly environment has attracted significant investments in renewable energy and business process outsourcing (BPO). Over 100 wind turbines now dot the landscape, generating over 360 megawatts of power, which supports thousands of homes across the country. The influx of BPO companies has also led to a boom in employment, with the province maintaining a 98.7% employment rate. The Provincial Employment Service Office (PESO) has been instrumental in this success, offering numerous programs that have increased employment opportunities by 50% since 2010.
Ilocos Norte’s entrepreneurial landscape is thriving, with the Ilocos Norte Incubation Center supporting a rise in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from 18,845 in the previous year to 22,490 in 2024. The center’s innovative Producer-to-Consumer (P2C) program has been recognized nationally, boosting sales for participating MSMEs. Additionally, the province’s focus on modernizing agriculture has solidified its position as a top producer of high-value crops, enhancing farm efficiency and supporting year-round farming.
Tourism has also played a crucial role in the province’s economic growth, leveraging its cultural heritage and natural attractions to draw visitors. Infrastructure development, including upgrades to the Laoag International Airport, is underway to support this growth and improve connectivity. With a population of over 600,000, the provincial government, backed by national support, continues to implement initiatives aimed at sustainable development and improving the quality of life for its residents.