LAOAG

laoag, a town, port for coasting vessels, and capital of the province of ilocos norte, luzon, philippine islands, on the laoag river, about 5 m. from its mouth, and in the n.w. part of the island. pop. (1903) 34,454; in 1903, after the census had been taken, the municipality of san nicolas (pop. 1903, 10,880) was added to laoag. laoag is on an extensive coast plain, behind which is a picturesque range of hills; it is well built and is noted for its fine climate, the name "laoag" signifying "clear." it is especially well equipped for handling rice, which is shipped in large quantities; indian corn, tobacco and sugar are also shipped. cotton is grown in the vicinity, and is woven by the women into fabrics, which find a ready sale among the pagan tribes of the mountains. the language is ilocano.