On February 2, 1818, a royal decree issued by the King of Spain officially split the Province of Ilocos into two distinct regions: Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. This division came in response to widespread uprisings by local residents, who rebelled against the Spanish colonial administration’s strict monopolies on essential goods like tobacco, basi (a traditional sugarcane wine), and vinegar.
Background of the Uprisings
The protests highlighted growing discontent with colonial policies that restricted trade and imposed heavy controls on local products. Residents in the Ilocos region, known for its agricultural output, faced economic hardships due to these monopolies, sparking organized resistance across communities.
Role of Laoag City
Laoag City served as the primary hub during this period, acting as the largest center for administrative and economic activities in the undivided province. The separation aimed to address regional differences and improve governance, marking a significant milestone in Philippine colonial history.
