The Ilocos Region is the historical homeland of the Ilocanos. They constitute a majority in the region: Ilocos Norte (97%), Ilocos Sur (93%), La Union (92%), and Pangasinan (45%). The Pangasinense are concentrated in central Pangasinan province and they number slightly more than the Ilocano population at around 50 percent. Minority groups include the Tingguian and Isneg communities that inhabit the foothills of the Cordillera mountains.

Abra's inhabitants are mostly descendants of llocano settlers and members of the Tingguian tribe. The predominant languages are Ilocano and Tingguian. Based on the 1995 census survey, Ilocano is generally spoken by 73.65% of the region's total population. 25.18% speak Tinguian/Itneg, 0.16% speak Tagalog, and the remaining 0.54% speak other dialects.

Imelda Marcos - First lady of the Philippines

In 1965, Ferdinand was elected President of the Philippines. Imelda took an active role in politics, and was appointed Minister of Human Settlements and Governor of Metro Manila.

She advocated the construction of hospitals, schools and museums. She also instituted many social welfare programs throughout the nation as well as cultural programs, and the "Green Revolution" — a government program that significantly increased the production of rice and other agricultural produce. New homes for wayward children and the aged were built as well as housing for the poor. During natural disasters such as fires, typhoons, floods, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, people turned to Mrs. Marcos for relief and assistance. This was not only because they believed she had a compassionate heart but also because they were confident she would take action immediately. These actions earned her the title "Mother of the Nation."

When the Marcos regime became increasingly unpopular, Imelda's glamourous excesses were a frequent target of criticism. While much of the Philippines remained mired in poverty due to the sinking economy, Imelda was said to possess hundreds of pairs of shoes in an enormous walk-in closet and hordes of jewels.