One dandy Wednesday morning, me and the Lakbay Norte gang had breakfast in Malacañang. Not quite “Malacañang Palace,” the official residence of the President of the Philippines. Neither did we get the privilege to dine with the President himself. I’m referring to Malacañang of the North, the lakeside estate in the charming town of Paoay, Ilocos Norte.

Main entrance of Malacanang of the North

The Malacañang of the North was built during the 1970s to serve as the summer residence of former President Ferdinand Marcos. The best feature of this estate is its gorgeous location beside the idyllic Paoay Lake and a  two storey Spanish-colonial style structure embellished with the opulence of the Marcos era.

It was very cool to have breakfast at Malacañang of the North, which once welcomed important dignitaries and the venue of the most happening socialite parties during its heyday.

In and around the Malacañang of the North

I’ve noticed a lot of improvements since my first visit to the Malacanang of the North. The Ilocos Norte Provincial Government definitely did an excellent job in developing the estate into a fitting tourist attraction for Ilocos Norte. It looked better maintained with restored interiors and a lot of old furniture and memorabilia on display.

Christmas holiday season display at the entrance hall.

These are some of my favorite parts of the Malacañang of the North :)

One of the inner halls

Former first lady Imelda Marcos on Cora Jacobs bag. Cora Jacobs is widely regarded as the pioneer of Philippine handbag design.

Beautiful airy living space at the second level

Luxurious view of Paoay Lake from the second level balcony.

Room on the first floor

Spacious room on the second floor

Room of Imee and Irene Marcos

Room of Imee and Irene Marcos

Spacious bathroom

Love the accented mirrors scattered around the house

Metro Ilocos Norte Master Plan for Tourism

During breakfast, we were welcomed by Ianree Valera Barlahan Raquel, provincial tourism officer of Ilocos Norte. We were also introduced to the tourism initiatives currently done by the provincial government. I was very impressed.

Excellent news to be aware of aggressive plans and see exciting proposals for the development of tourism in Ilocos Norte. From what I’ve heard and noticed from online activities, Ilocos Norte has experiencing a significant influx of domestic tourists this year. Very fitting since this part of the country has a lot of beautiful sights, rich history, and deep seeded culture to offer.

Proposals for future development of Paoay Church and surrounding areas.

Breakfast at Malacañang of the North

Didn’t take lots of pictures during breakfast. I probably enjoyed the food too much :D

Breakfast buffet on the lakeside porch of Malacanang of the North

Malacañang of the North is open for everyone. It’s possible to book the lakeside grounds for special occasions such as wedding receptions, birthdays, and other private functions.

It’s possible to get to the Malacañang of the North by local commute from Laoag. See my DIY post on Malacanang of the North during my first visit to Ilocos. From Paoay town proper (Paoay Church), travelers can get to Paoay Lake by tricycle (not sure if there’s a jeepney coming from the town proper).