The Great Amianan | Bangui Windfarm, Ilocos Norte
Bangui Wind Farm has been the icon of Ilocos Region and all throughout Asia.
We chose to stay overnight at Saud where several homestays are up for grabs. Nanay Rolly, who we also contacted prior to the trip already prepared our room for the night.
Pagudpud, Here We Come!
The whole place feels much like home. Upon arrival we immediately settled down and prepared for dinner after a little chat with Nanay Rolly. We had dinner at the nearest eatery and made friends with a solo backpacker from Palawan.
The following morning, we started the tour by 8:00am. Usually, the Pagudpud Tour is divided into two, the Southbound and Northbound both pegged at 600php/trip. We chose to start venturing down its southern territories.
Renewable Energy? I’m a Big Fan!
Pagudpud is a fourth class municipality located at the northernmost tip of the island of Luzon. Tourists are drawn by the alluring ivory beaches and natural land and seascapes of this coastal town.
From our homestay we traveled down south to the municipality of Bangui. This is where the famous Bangui Windmills are located.
Bangui Wind Farm has been the icon of Ilocos Region and all throughout Asia. The turbines are arranged in a single row stretching across the nine-kilometer Bangui Bay facing the West Philippine Sea.
Moreover, each generates 1.65 Mega Watts.
The total peak capacity, with all the 20 turbines in operation, generates 32 Mega Watts of power. In fact, it energizes much of Ilocos Norte combined with the several wind farms commissioned in the region.
To promote clean and renewable energy, the North Wind Project spearheaded by the local government of Ilocos, was initiated during the 1990’s. Although not for tourism purposes, their aesthetic quality became a major draw for tourists all over the globe.
Waves are strong across the shore, so are the streamlining winds. I have no idea if swimming around this pebble beach is regarded as safe. Refreshments and souvenirs are sold at the huts near the turbines. Make sure to buy something to help the locals make a living out of tourism activities.
How To Get There
- From Manila, take any Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte bound buses (Partas and GV Florida), travel time takes 12 hours.
- Alight at Bangui Proper and hail a tricycle to take you to the windmills
- Alternatively, alight at the Pagudpud Municipal Hall and take any tricycle to your accommodation of choice. Then avail the Southern Tour Package, Bangui Widfarm is included there
