ILOCOS SUR

province lying along the northwestern coast of Luzon, Philippines. With an area of 996 sq mi (2,580 sq km), it is bordered by the South China Sea (west) and the province of Ilocos Norte (northeast). The province does not have highly productive soil, and its low rate of population growth is due to steady migration, principally to the southern islands. Tobacco, rice, and corn (maize) are the main crops. Vigan, the provincial capital, and the towns of Candon, Narvacan, and Cabugao are on the coastal lowland. Bessang Pass National Park and the historic Tirad Pass, where the Filipinos made their last defense against the Americans in 1898, are also located in the province. The Ilocanos are the major ethnic group, and the Kankanay the largest minority. Pop. (1980) 443,591.