Sitio Remedios is a heritage village resort that sits along the shoreline of Currimao in Ilocos Norte, Philippines. Made from vintage bricks and wood from a number of old houses in the northern province, the village is a reminder of Ilocos Norte’s and the country’s colorful past.
Right at the center of Sitio Remedios is the Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, a quaint chapel built in honor of the Lady of Good Voyage. It faces a grand plaza and sits near an imposing statue of St. Michael the Archangel, the town’s patron saint. St. Michael has his own plaza and it goes all the way to the art gallery where Sitio’s voluminous art collection is housed.
Sitio’s symbolism touches on so many layers – that of Philippine history, its colonial masters, the tradition of fisherfolk who, for centuries, have made their living out of the sea, and of the proprietor’s love for art and for his dear mother Remedios. The importance of religion in the socio-cultural fabric of Filipino society is showcased prominently at Sitio Remedios. Aside from the chapel, the statue of the Archangel Michael, and the offering area, the homes inside the heritage village also have several pieces dedicated to saints and religious figures.
Sitio Remedios is a typical Spanish village with its quadricula. The houses have a beautiful view of Plaza Manzanilla and several pockets of greenery. The plants in these gardens were meticulously chosen and planted around old trees.
Sitio Remedios is known for its tranquil surroundings, with the waves crashing on the shores as the most prominent sound one can hear at night. While it is reminiscent of old world genteelness, it is also an ode to all the struggles of Ilocanos and to their triumphs.
All the villas inside Sitio Remedios are furnished with exquisite Ilocano furniture and bed covers are made out of the traditional weave. Every little detail tells a story. Some of the paintings that hang on the walls of these houses showcase the Ilocanos’ shared history while others tells several stories about the proprietor and his family.
The 18,000-square meter property is witness to a number of events but much like Currimao’s patron saint St. Michael, it stands guard with the fortitude of an experienced warrior.
Photo by Angelie Maranan Banaag