Alilem

Tucked deep within the Cordillera foothills, Alilem, Ilocos Sur is the kind of place that whispers stories through its mountains, rivers, and ancient folklore. Known for its dramatic landscapes, rich traditions, and peaceful charm, Alilem is a sleepy highland municipality that wakes the soul of every traveler who dares to go off the beaten path. If you’re craving serenity, natural beauty, and a taste of authentic Ilocano life, this is your hidden gem.

• Bimmugay Falls – A majestic multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The trek alone is a nature-lover’s dream.
• Amburayan River – Crystal-clear waters winding through valleys and perfect for eco-trips, fishing, or just a riverside picnic.
• Alilem View Deck – Take in panoramic views of rolling hills and misty mountains, especially magical at sunrise.
• Barangay Apang Hanging Bridge – A scenic and slightly thrilling way to cross the river like a local adventurer!

Alilem is home to Ilocano highland traditions, with a lifestyle rooted in farming, weaving, and folk storytelling. The town is peaceful, with strong family ties and warm hospitality. You’ll often see communities gathering to share harvests, tell legends of river gods, and perform age-old rituals.

Ilocano is the primary language, but Tagalog and English are spoken by the younger generation. Want to impress the locals? Say “Agyamanak” (Thank you) or “Naimbag a malem” (Good afternoon!).

• Inabraw (Dinengdeng) – A simple yet flavorful vegetable dish cooked with bagoong and grilled fish.
• Pinakbet with kamote – Earthy, hearty, and distinctly Ilocano.
• Native rice cakes – Made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and wrapped in banana leaves — the taste of home.
• Sugarcane snacks and tubó juice – Naturally sweet and refreshing, straight from the fields!

• Alilem Festival (January) – Celebrates the town’s founding legend of the river god and the enchanted stone. The town bursts into life with street parades, tribal dances, cultural performances, and food fairs. It’s the perfect mix of mysticism and merrymaking!

Expect heartfelt Ilocano folk songs, bamboo instruments, and chants passed down from generation to generation. During fiestas, you’ll hear kailian serenades, gongs, and community rondalla groups celebrating tradition through sound.

• The legendary tale of the Alilem Stone and river gods
• Untouched natural beauty and adventure spots
• Highland Ilocano traditions
• Peaceful eco-living and community warmth
• Rich folklore and scenic river trails