We finally come to the provincial capital of Ilocos Norte, Laoag. After Paoay, we were contemplating one whether we go to Laoag City or go to Batac first. Batac is famous because it is the place where former President Marcos hailed from. There are a lot of anything Marcos in that town even the crypt of the former President. Unfortunately, there was no time for us to visit the town of Batac, so we proceeded to the city of Laoag.
In a complete contrast to the city of Vigan in Ilocos Sur, Laoag City is a very busy city, very much like Manila, complete with the ubiquitous tricycles. At the heart of their commercial center is the Laoag Cathedral. Just like any other Spanish founded town, Laoag hosts a huge cathedral. This cathedral is also known as St. William the Hermit’s Church. It is funny because I didn’t even know there was a St. William the Hermit, but I had now encountered two church built in his honor, the other one was Magsingal Church, in the town of Magsingal.
Laoag Church was built in 1612 with Italian Renaissance design. The church itself was damaged by earthquake several times but each time has been rebuilt. Probably more famous than the church building itself is the massive belltower built a distance away. Again, this was built so much further up because of the danger of bringing down the entire church in case the belltower collapses.
The tower itself features the earthquake baroque architectural design. The massive columns support the weight of the tower ensuring that it does not collapse. This tower is happens to be the tallest such tower in the Philippines. Although, as each year passes, this is less and less true.
Yes, the tower is sinking. The massive tower has considerable weight. Also, the fact that the building is built on sand does nothing to stop the sinking. It currently, sinks at a rate of an inch each year. The doors as the side used to be able to allow a man on horseback to enter the tower with ease, but now one needs to stoop low just to be able to enter. It is for this reason that has been named the Sinking Bell tower of Laoag.
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