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La Union tourism industry sees recovery from pandemic slump

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LA UNION SURFING. A surfer wades through the surf during the World Surfing League in San Juan town in La Union province.

La Union provincial government

ILOCOS NORTE, Philippines – Tourism in La Union is on the rebound, with an uptick in visitor numbers signaling a recovery from the COVID-19 travel restrictions that plagued the industry since early 2020.

La Union Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David said on Friday, February 16, that tourism in province has been steadily climbing following the pandemic-induced slump. 

Data reveals an 11% surge in arrivals in 2023 compared to 2022, indicating a promising trend for the region. In 2019, before the pandemic hit, the province logged some 660,096 tourists.

The 2023 figures, however, showed signs of recovery as around 550,359 tourists – 6,450 foreigners and 543,909 domestic tourists – visited La Union compared to the 494,387 in 2022, data from the Provincial Tourism Office (PTO) showed. 

The figures exclude “the number of day visitors who come to our province for a quick getaway given our proximity to key cities in the country,” said David. 

In its La Union Wonders and Adventure, Visitor Experience Survey which tracks tourists’ behavior and purchase preferences and habits, it was shown that 57% of the total arrivals in 2023 were returning visitors.

The survey also showed that more tourists visited the province during “holidays and long weekends.”

The 2023 arrivals translated to P1 billion in tourism revenues, a 16% jump from the P897 million recorded in 2022, the data revealed.

The Urbiztondo beach in  San Juan town remained to attract the most number of tourists in the province last year, with 257,559 day visitors. 

Known for being a surfing capital and its easy proximity to the country’s capital, San Juan also offers a getaway for its laid-back vibes and spirited nightlife.

In January this year, the town also played host to the World Surfing League for its second consecutive year. During the event, the province hoped to increase its arrivals to 5% during the period of the competition from the previous influx of tourists at 17,976 visitors in 2023.

Aside from the beaches in San Juan, Namacpacan Church in Luna and Macho Temple in the capital city of San Fernando were also listed as the top tourist destinations in the province in 2023.

Based on tourism data, 77% of the province’s tourist arrivals in 2023  comprised young adults. Many of the visitors came from areas in Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Calamba, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon, Cordillera Administrative Region, and the rest of Ilocos.

For this year, the provincial government is eyeing to increase its tourist arrivals by 3% by developing tour packages and ramping up its advertising of its beach tourism.

The tourism recovery paves the way for “opportunities to our local businesses and strengthen our local economy as we gear towards positioning La Union to be the heart of agri-tourism in Northern Luzon by 2025,” said David. – Rappler.com

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La Union posts tourism recovery

LA UNION tourism has gained momentum since the pandemic, welcoming 550,359 tourists in 2023, marking an 11-percent increase from the previous year’s 494,387, the provincial government said on Monday.

Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David hailed the upswing, attributing it to tourists rebounding from the pandemic slump. The figures, based on overnight visitors reported by local tourism offices to the Department of Tourism, do not include tourists passing through. The influx also fueled a 16% rise in tourism revenue, reaching over P1 billion in 2023 from P897 million in 2022.

Of the visitors, 6,450 were international tourists, and 543,909 were domestic. April saw the highest arrival rate, with 68,567 visitors.

Urbiztondo beach in San Juan topped the list with 257,559 day visitors, followed by Namacpacan Church in Luna town and Macho Temple in the City of San Fernando.

Other attractions included Tangadan Falls, Bauang’s grape farms, Baluarte Watch Tower, and private-owned destinations like Halo-Halo De Iloko and Pugo Adventure.

A visitor satisfaction survey, La Union Wonders and Adventure, revealed a 57% repeat visitor rate. Most tourists came from Manila, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, and the Cordillera Administrative Region.

Governor Ortega-David expressed gratitude for the province’s growth and pledged to position La Union as the Heart of Agri-Tourism in Northern Luzon by 2025.

The positive news coincides with La Union’s 174th Foundation Anniversary celebration, promising exciting activities for locals and tourists alike on March 2. — Arte mio A. Dumlao

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La Union reopens door to local tourists

The local government of La Union resumed all tourism activities on May 22 in a bid to revive its tourism industry shuttered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under Executive Order No. 27 issued by Governor Emmanuel Ortega III, only 700 registered tourists from Luzon aged 15 to 65 years old will be allowed to enter the province per day.

Also, tourists are allowed to visit only identified tourism destinations in the province.

Tourists, regardless of place of origin, are required to have negative RT-PCR test results within 72 hours prior to arrival.

Saliva-based RT PCR test result issued by the Philippine Red Cross, with the same period of validity, will also be accepted.

Tourists need to book their visits through accredited travel operators and apply for travel requests through the visitor information and tourist assistance website. — LBG, GMA News

BEST La Union Tourist Spots and Activities Aside from Surfing

12. Red Clay Pagdamilian

11. pindangan ruins, 10. gapuz grapes farm.

• 9. Kamay Na Bato Open Art Gallery

8. PUGAD Pugo Adventure

7. baluarte watch tower, 6. namacpacan church, 5. immuki island, 4. ma-cho temple (taoist temple), 3. poro point and lighthouse, 2. tangadan falls, 1. urbiztondo beach in san juan.

Known as the “Surfing Capital of the North, the beaches of Barangay Urbiztondo in San Juan is one of the tourist spots in La Union, but there’s more to the province than just surfing in the Philippines . It also has centuries-old churches, heritage sites, natural attractions such as the Tangadan Falls, and a thriving local arts scene along with agri-tourism farms that are open to the public. You won't run out of things to do in La Union.

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If you’re planning on joining any La Union tours and are looking for what to do in La Union or where to go in La Union, take a look at some of the best La Union tourist spots and beaches near Manila on your next trip up to the northern coasts of Luzon.   

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The word “damili” translates to “the art of pottery making” in the Ilocano language and is the root word for the name Red Clay Pagdamilian, a popular pottery studio and shop that showcases local talent with beautiful pottery and other souvenir items for sale. But more than the pottery on display, what makes it one of the famous tourist attractions in La Union is that for a small fee, anyone can handle the clay and mold their very own one-of-a-kind souvenir clay item from scratch. 

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The hands-on pottery lesson for visitors is such a big hit that it became the focal point of the shop, with local and foreign visitors flocking to the studio to create their own vessels and other pottery designs. It became a venue for visitors to release their artistic talents or a a creative outlet for participants to express their personality. The clay can be molded into useful shapes with a practical purposes or into decorative items to be displayed around the house such as clay pots, food storage, and mugs, to name a few. 

The pottery and souvenir shop can be found along the National Highway on Barangay La Union.

The ruins is one of the top places to visit in La Union and refers to the remains of a church built by Augustinian priests in the late 1700s during the Spanish colonial period, while Pindangan, an Ilocano word which translates to “a place for drying fish,” is where local inhabitants used to lay out salted fish to dry out in the sun, a process of preserving and curing meat that the town of San Fernando is known for to this day.

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What remains of the church are formidable walls and buttresses. During the early years of Spanish era, the church was vulnerable to pirate attacks and foreign invasion because of its location near the coastal areas by the sea, and the clergy decided to move the town’s place of worship to another location. The Pindangan church was abandoned and left to decay until it an earthquake that took place sometime in the 1800’s destroyed it and it has remained to its present state.

The Pindangan Ruins are currently looked after by the Carmelite Sisters, who live in a monastery within the property. The ruins are preserved in its original condition or kept in a state of “arrested decay”. This historical structure stands near Camp Oscar Florendo, just 500 M from the National Highway. 

When tourists visit La Union, one of the first things that typically comes to mind is the beach. Most visitors associate the town with surfing, swimming under the heat of the sun, and enjoying the tropical weather. But what most travelers don't know is that La Union is also a top farm tour destination in the Philippines . One of the top farms in La Union is the Gapuz Grapes Farm. 

Grape farm owner Danny Gapuz started planting 100 cuttings of a type of variety called White Malaga and Black Ribier back in the 1980s in his hometown in Barangay Urayong, Bauang, La Union. Although the farm has been around since that time, it wasn’t until 2011 that tourists started to know about it after the Gapuz Farm Facebook page was set up. 

Visitors intrigued by the novelty of picking grapes under the heat of the tropical sun started posting their experiences over social media. You could do that in the Philippines without having to fly to Napa Valley or other places abroad. The farm offers other fun experiences like “The Porch Life” where a group of 10 people could share a meal on a banana leaf called “boodle fight”, while grape picking season is at its peak from March to May. 

9. Kamay Na Bato Open Art Gallery 

“Kamay na Bato”, a Filipino phrase that translates to “house of stone”, is an art gallery that features various art sculptures carved from stone. This tourist attraction is located along Balaoan Road in Luna, La Union, right next to a pebble beach.

The gallery is owned and curated by Mr. Bong Kim, a Korean national with a fine arts degree. He specialized in sculpture while studying, so its no surprise that many of his own artwork can be found at the gallery. Mr. Kim moved to Luna a few years ago and lived nearby with his wife and children. 

The art gallery includes murals, large stone carvings, mounted stone busts, and paintings of uniquely Filipino images such as seascapes, smiling faces, and exotic animals, and colorful fish. There’s even a painting of Manny Pacquiao near the entrance! Aside from stone carvings, wooden sculptures are also abundant and spread out throughout the property, while a function hall can be rented for a fee.

There is also a well-lit area that displays more paintings, murals, sculptures, 3D artworks, and a shop selling souvenir items. Don’t forget to bring your camera and take lots of pictures of the unique artwork around you.

Adrenaline junkies looking for thrilling experience in La Union will find it at PUGAD Pugo Resort, an adventure park that offers fun activities with a zip lines, giant swing, rappelling, paintball, wall climbing, ATV, and 10 swimming pools. It also has 94 cottages for rent, and facilities for overnight accommodations, along with air-conditioning, cable TV with hot and cold bath.

The resort also has a mini zoo with exotic animals such as various snake breeds, bearcats, exotic birds, and a tiger named Nicole. It has 2 zip lines: the Superman zipline that measures 450 from end to end, and a shorter one that is 250 meters in length that takes 10 seconds to ride. Both provide a great view of the resort and of the surrounding landscape. 

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The giant swing is recommended for people who are not afraid of heights because it involves hanging on the side of a cliff with only a harness as support. Don’t forget to bring your bathings suits - with 10 swimming pools to choose from, you’ll never run out of fun activities to do while at PUGAD Resort and Adventure Park. 

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The 400 year old Baluarte Watch Tower was built during the Spanish colonial period and served as a place to warn residents against pirates and foreign looters along the coastal town. The 5.6-meter high round-shaped tower provided strategic a vantage point as a lookout for the Spanish guards to prepare against possible attacks from Japanese, Moro and Chinese invaders during the Spanish era. During WW2, it was also used as a communication tower.

It stands on an embankment along the scenic Pebble Beach in Barangay Victoria, a beach filled with multi-colored stones of various shapes and sizes. This historical landmark has been visited by countless tourists throughout the years and was declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines in 2014.

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The massive fortress was split in half for many years until it finally collapsed in 2015, damaged by the strong winds of typhoon Lando. Restoration efforts started in 2016 and was finally completed in 2017, where it can now be seen with its walls fused together with a combination of the centuries-old adobe-coral stones with newer, lighter-colored red bricks.

This Roman Catholic church is also known as The Santa Catalina de Alejandria Church and is located in Luna, La Union. Established in 1690, the church is placed under the advocacy of Saint Catherine of Alexandria and is the site where the wooden image of the Blessed Virgin Mary can be found.

The venerated image is formally called Our Lady of Namacpacan, locally known as “Apo Baket”. Several miracles are attributed to the image, and it attracts many devotees and Marian followers. A patroness of Ilocano travellers, the image stands at 6 feet and 4 inches, making it the tallest known statue of its kind in the country. 

The structure is one of the Philippines’ National Cultural Treasures. The Namacpacan Church is an Earthquake Baroque church, a style of architecture found the the country as a way to combat the destructive forces of earthquakes that many Luzon structures suffered during the 17th to 18th century, within the Spanish colonial period. The church features buttresses and thick walls, a ceremonial archway, rounded pediments, and a white facade typical of Baroque architecture.  

Immuki island is made up of a series of smalls lagoons filled with pools of water held together by corals. It has three crystal clear pools that are perfect to dip into on a hot, sunny day. Located in Barangay Paraoir in Balaoan, La Union, it is the type of place for visitors looking for a quiet, natural environment that is away from the usual crowd of noisy tourists. 

Getting there is an adventure in itself: from San Juan, La Union, you will make your way to McArthur Highway and then make a turn toward Bacnotan town via the Bacnotan-Luna-Balaoan Road and head toward Balaoan town. Follow the coastal road toward Luna until reaching Barangay Paraoir. 

Before entering Immuki island, you will need to register at the barangay hall near the Paraoir National Highschool and then follow a paved pathway toward a beach. From the beach, you will wade through roughly 250 meters distance to reach one of the lagoons in Immuki island. Walking past the shallow water is possible in the low tide - otherwise, a raft may be rented nearby.

Bring aqua slippers to protect your feet from sharp corals, and enjoy the turquoise pools with water so clear you don’t need a snorkeling mask to see the reef fish. This hidden paradise won’t stay hidden for long as it is already attracting many local tourists.

The Ma-Cho Temple’s architecture cuts a striking image across the La Union skyline. Nestled on top of a hill at an elevation of 70 above sea level along Quezon Avenue in San Fernando, the highest point offers a panoramic view of the West Philippine Sea and San Fernando harbor. It is the first Taoist temple in the Philippines that was built in 1975 to honor the Chinese sea-goddess Mazu.

The magnificent temple is an 11-tiered attraction with interiors filled with Chinese decorations and Taiwanese art, and its most popular attraction is the Spider Dome, a structure that features 13 tiers of interlinking wooden carvings of images of saints. Other colorful attractions to visit include the Bell Tower, the Drum Tower, Bamboo Garden, Lian Thing Pagoda, and the Majestic Five Door Gate. Other awe-inspiring structures such as two circular pools and other beautifully designed edifices made up of Chinse themes and motifs of lions, dragons, and deities.

The Taoist temple is a place of worship and welcomes anyone regardless of religious affiliation, race or creed. Visitors are encouraged to meditate and find solace in this magnificently designed place of worship. 

Poro Point is a coastal landform on an elevated point of land that extends about 3.2KM into the West Philippine Sea. Historically called the San Fernando Point, it is found along the boundary of San Fernando bay near the international seaport. Its most striking features are the white cliffs found along it western coastline with the peninsula overlooking the Lingayen Gulf that extends up to Santiago Island in Bolinao.

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Poro Point’s location makes it the ideal site for navigational purposes, and this is why it has been used as a navigational aid since 1885, with the Lighthouse as its main point of reference. Built during the Spanish colonial period, the Lighthouse is a cylindrical tower made of French prefabricated steel that stands 6 meters in height. 

The lighthouse was converted into US reservation during the American colonial period, but the original structure was replaced in 1979 with a concert tower that stands 38 meters tall. In 1991, the former American facility was returned back to the Philippine government, and the lighthouse became the headquarters of the Philippine Navy, and the station named as Naval Station Ernesto Ogbinar.

Located in the town of San Gabriel, La Union, Tangadan Falls is a two-tier waterfall that flows into the Baroro River, with the water coming in from the Cordillera Mountain Ranges. The lower cascade of the falls has a width of 100 feet and a 40 foot drop, with a natural catch basin pool that is great for a quick dip on a hot summer’s day.

The upper cascade has a shorter waterfall with a deeper pool basin which is ideal for jumping off the side of the cliff. Of the two, the lower cascade features a more majestic and dramatic waterfall and is widely photographed for its striking image. The cold spring water is a refreshing respite from heat and a welcome break after the scenic trek en route to the waterfall. 

Wear sturdy walking shoes along with your swimsuit on your visit to Tangadan Falls, because you’ll be doing some light trekking along the way. There’s an option to go on a one hour trek and another one where you can be dropped off at the trailhead of the falls in San Gabriel, a relatively shorter 20 minute walk to the falls. 

Urbiztondo Beach is one of the San Juan, La Union tourist spots and is known as the Surfing Capital of Northern Philippines, with surfing seasons typically falling July to October and November to March. This area of La Union has a reputation for having the country’s most consistent waves, and thriving surf culture has flourished in recent years. Many places offer surfing lessons for all levels, and numerous places of lodging can also be found throughout the coastline. Surfboards are available for rent throughout the area as well.

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Beginners typically start having lessons in Bacnotan because the waves  in the area are not too big, which is perfect for novice learners or anyone who have never tried surfing before. The more advanced surfers usually go to Urbiztondo and the neighboring town of Mona Lisa Point. 

Travel to the Surfing Town of La Union and Explore Its Tourist Spots

From 400-year-old fortresses to centuries-old churches, La Union has its fair share of national historical treasures that make this coastal surf town a wonderful place to visit. It is also a place where talented artists thrive, with pottery makers sharing their space with curious visitors who want to try their hand in shaping clay. 

Museums and spaces that inspire art are abundant among the La Union tourists spots featured in this list. Residents of La Union have managed to set up a unique agri-tourism industry like grape-picking that continue to attract local and foreign visitors. 

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For many urban dwellers and Luzon residents, La Union offers some of the best beaches, surfing destinations near Manila, and tourist spots in Luzon . Because it is just a bus or car ride away from Manila, it offers a quick escape from the pressures of city living. The scenic beaches, Philippine resorts , and historical landmarks make it the ideal tourist destination for all ages. 

Start your La Union adventure by booking your Philippine vacation packages  including vacation packages for couples  and 2 days 1 night tour packages in the Philippines with a reputable travel booking website.

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La Union Province commits to real change through agritourism strategy

• July 21, 2017

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The Provincial Government of La Union’s commitment towards transformative governance is to bring real change through good governance and revolutionizing public service delivery. Their promise is manifested in their strategy to be The Heart of Agritourism in Northern Luzon by 2025.

The main thrust of the province’s strategy is to focus on destination development through tourism circuits centered on community-based agritourism sites – in contrast to the conventional site development approach. The principle behind tourism circuits is to systematically connect all the different tourism and tourism-related attractions and services in a particular area with a major tourist site acting as a centerpiece for the circuit. The Province’s strategy is based on the advantages and opportunities present in their agriculture and tourism sectors. Accordingly in the next nine years, from 2017 to 2025, the Province is committed to developing five tourism circuits showcasing the different products, culture, and natural beauty of La Union. “The provincial government is committed to grow the agri-tourism economy, to enhance visitor experiences, and to strive for sustainability and good governance,” Provincial Governor Francisco Emmanuel “Pacoy” Ortega III shared during their second public revalida for ISA’s Performance Governance System (PGS) last June 21.

Ultimately, the Province of La Union aims to realize its vision by positioning itself as the preferred agritourism destination in Northern Luzon. Through their strategy and commitment towards transformative governance, the Province hopes to improve their competitiveness to uplift the people of La Union’s quality of life.

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25 LA UNION TOURIST SPOTS & Things to Do

Hailed as the Surfing Capital of the North , La Union takes pride in its monster swells that hug its shores for most of the year. Along with Siargao and Baler, “Elyu” , as regulars fondly call it, completes the holy trinity of Philippine surfing. The province’s reputation as a wave rider’s playground has been well documented in various publications; it’s pretty much common knowledge.

But there is so much more to La Union than its waves. Sprinkled throughout the province are a diverse set of attractions that have been largely overlooked. From historic manmade sites like Baluarte Watch Tower and Pindangan Ruins to other natural wonders like Tangadan Falls and Immuki Island, here are other noteworthy places to visit and things to do that will make you fall in love even deeper with La Union.

Note: Here are La Union’s travel requirements for tourists . But because travel policies and opening hours often change, please check the official websites or Facebook pages for the latest announcements first before going.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

BEST TOURIST SPOTS IN LA UNION

Urbiztondo Surfing

Okay, let’s get this out of the way first since it would be a grave crime to not include surfing in this list.

The best time to surf is from July to March. Whether you’re a seasoned rider, an excited beginner or simply a spectator, surfing is inescapable here. Surfboard rentals and surfing lessons are everywhere. Rates vary depending on the season (peak and off-peak).

Surfing Lesson Rates: P350-500 (1 hour, with surfboard and instructors); P200-250 (surfboard rental only). Surfing Season: July to October (South Swell); November to March (North Swell)

San Juan Food Trip

For non-surfers, San Juan offers another type of trip — the delicious kind! The food here is enough to compel us to visit La Union again and again. The food scene here is alive and kicking. There’s just a lot to discover and there’s always something new. Every time we visit, we try numerous joints, yet it always seems like we’re barely scratching the surface. But it’s okay because it means that we have more reasons to visit again.

Whether you are on a budget or in the mood to splurge, San Juan has a lot to offer. Our favorites so far are the following:

• MASA Bakehouse – Try their shakshouka and Manong Benny (Eggs Benedict)
• Gefseis Greek Grill – chicken souvlaki and moussaka
• Mad Monkeys – smoky BBQ bacon burger
• Tagpuan – goto and lugaw
• Dampa sa San Juan – mixed seafood
• Sabong Chicken – honey bagoong fried chicken
• Kabsat – beef kare-kare and shrimp in crab fat
• Nak Nak – crispy pork kare-kare and beef sisig
• Makai Bowls – surfer’s bowl

Aside from the restaurants, San Juan also harbors cafés where you can just enjoy a cup of your favorite coffee concoction while chilling and vibing with your friends! There are excellent homegrown coffee shops offering local coffee blends and other beverages. We’ve tried the offerings El Union Coffee and Clean Beach Coffee .

We’ll be publishing a separate article about the various food places around San Juan soon, so watch out for that.

Tangadan Falls

Nestled in the mountainous area of San Gabriel, Tangadan Falls is probably the most famous of the many cascades in the province. Baroro River flows down two tiers, each with its own natural pool. The whole place is surrounded by smooth limestone cliffs and peppered with boulders.

During the rainy season, the lower tier produces twin cascades. The cold water is refreshing after the 15-minute trek down from the jump-off point. If you are not a confident swimmer, you can rent a life vest or just swim in the shallow parts. Avoid the mossy rocks because they are very slippery, but if you can’t avoid them, be extra careful. For the adventurous, you can go cliff jumping!

The way back to the jump-off point entails ascending trails and taking numerous concrete steps. Although there are rest stops, it might still be challenging for seniors and those with mobility problems.

No tour guide, no entry policy. You also need to present the official receipt (OR) issued by the Municipal Treasury Office before you can enter the Tangadan Falls vicinity. The office is located beside the San Gabriel Police Station.

Location: Barangay Amontoc, San Gabriel, La Union Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily) Fees: P30/head (Environmental Fee); P500 (Guide Fee); P60 (Life Vest Rental) Habal-Habal Fare: P400 (Roundtrip, 1 pax); P600 (Roundtrip, 2 pax). The trip is from Municipal Treasury Office to Tangadan Falls Trailhead.

Immuki Island

Accessible after a 30-minute drive from San Juan, Immuki Island is perfect for those who are looking for new adventures in La Union. Off the coast of Barangay Paraoir, it is a rocky paradise adorned with mangroves and carved with three picturesque lagoons.

The lagoons have steady and clear but deep waters, perfect for swimming and cliff diving. You can even see fish swimming! However, note that there are shallow areas and there are also deep areas. The deep parts of the lagoons range from eight (8) to twelve (12) feet in depth. Moreover, put on protective footwear like aqua shoes because the rocks and corals are sharp.

To access Immuki Island, you need to register at the barangay hall. There’s a designated parking lot if you are bringing your car. From here, there are two ways of reaching the island — by treading the waters during low tide and by riding a balsa during high tide. Barangay Paraoir boasts an abundance of sea urchins, so you might spot some on the way to the island.

You cannot bring food and drinks to the island, but you can use one of the cottages along the beach if you are planning to have your lunch there. There are shops, showers and changing cubicles, but they are very basic. Bring your own toiletries and towels too.

Location: Barangay Paraoir, Balaoan, La Union Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily) Fees: P20/head (Environmental Fee); P250 (Balsa Rental, Good for 5-7 pax); P10 (Shower Fee); Donation-Type (Cottage)

Bauang Grape Farms

The town of Bauang boasts hectare upon hectare of vineyards and grape farms. Overshadowed by the beaches and waves of the neighboring towns, the grape-picking activity in Bauang is certainly an underrated attraction in the province. But timing is everything here because grapes are seasonal. Luckily for us, we visited in March, just in time for the grape-picking season!

Along the long stretch of MacArthur Highway, from TPLEX going to San Fernando and San Juan, we noticed several people with posters that read: “Grape Picking” or “Grape Farm/Grape Picking”. We didn’t know whether or not they are legit, so we went straight to Lomboy Grape Farm ‘s Uvas Café and inquired there. We chose it because the founder of Lomboy Farm is the pioneer of grape farming in the region, credited for introducing the industry to La Union.

After registering, we were led to the partner grape farm (Danny Ancheta’s Grapes Farm). The team actually enjoyed our time picking grapes and sampling local grape wine, fruit wine, and natural fruit juice concentrate — Mangosteen, Blueberry, and Guyabano.

Best Grape-Picking Months: March to May (Dry Season) Fees: P25/head (Registration/Entrance Fee); P350/kilo (Grape Picking Activity); P25 (Parking Fee) Established Grape Farms: Lomboy Grape Farms, Gapuz Grapes Farm, Danny Ancheta’s Grapes Farm, Manguerra Grapes Farm, Calica Grapes Farm, Acosta Grapes Farm, and others

SAN JUAN Tourist Spots

Urbiztondo beach & sunset.

This is where it all started! More than half of Elyu’s income is generated in San Juan, particularly from the Urbizondo area where accommodations and dining places mushroomed between the 2000s and 2010s. This is La Union’s tourism hub.

From its wide bed of sand to its spectacular sunset, you’ll find a lot to enjoy here even if you’re not interested in surfing at all. The shore is lined with restaurants and cafes, making it a favorite hangout place for sunbathers, foodies, and sunset lovers. The area is also a popular spot for nightlife and beach parties.

Urbiztondo Beach is the best area to stay in La Union because of its proximity to the beach and the highway as well as its wide array of dining options. Other attractions in La Union are also easily accessible from here. You’ll also find most accommodations here.

If you wish to make Urbiztondo as your base, here are some of your lodging options:

• Urbiz Garden Bed and Breakfast . FB page.
• The Escape San Juan . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• The Little Surfmaid Resort . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• EL Navi Surftown . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Costa Villa Beach Resort . Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Surfer’s Point Deck . Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Lotus Valley Farm

NOTE: Lotus Valley Farm remains CLOSED , but we’re including it here on this list in case they decide to open. (The management said they would be opening SOON when we inquired.)

Are you more of a mountain person? Do you prefer peace and quiet? Well, you might want to consider staying at Lotus Valley Farm , a sustainable and eco-friendly nature resort tucked away in the mountainous parts of the popular surf town.

It started in 2009 when owners and environment advocates Toby and Marissa Tamayo purchased hectares of land and transformed it into a verdant and flourishing agro-tourism destination. They created a forest paradise with over 20,000 trees of various kinds (narra, antipolo, molave, etc.) and countless medicinal, ornamental and edible plants. And in the middle, they built bamboo huts, where guests can spend the night.

It also features a lotus flower plant garden, a stream, and a spring that also helps supply water throughout the barangay. Some parts of this hidden gem are not open to the public because they are home to wild bees, bats, and birds, just to name some. The food options offered here are plant-based, farm-to-table types.

Before the pandemic, we had the privilege of touring the farm and experiencing acupuncture detox and sound meditation. We also had a delicious plant-based dinner made from vegetables that were harvested from the farm itself.

Day tour visits were allowed pre-pandemic. But staying overnight in their kubo is another experience. No need for air-conditioning and you’ll get to wake up to the sound of the birds! If you are planning to spend a night here (when they reopen), note that the cellphone signal is rough, so that means away from your gadgets and more time to commune with nature.

If you’re only interested in seeing an expanse of lotus plants, other than Lotus Valley Farm, there are also roadside lotus farms that are publicly accessible in La Union like this one:

There are sunflower farms, too.

Address: Sitio Kasilagan, Dasaya, San Juan, La Union Contact Details: 0942 366 4519 (Mobile Number)

CURMA Center

If you have a heart for marine life conservation or you are just curious about how you can help protect the environment, you might want to check out SIFCare-CURMA Hatchery in San Juan. CURMA (Coastal Underwater Resource Management Actions) focuses on the conservation and protection of marine turtles through regular beach patrolling and hatchery management.

Other than that, the organization also partners with other interested parties for coastal clean-ups and pawikan-release events.

The group also conducts information and education campaigns and other advocacies like the “No Plastic” campaign. If you are interested in volunteering or donating, you can visit the headquarters or the official website to learn more.

Address: SIFCare-CURMA Hatchery, 374 Saint Jude Subdivison, Ili Norte, San Juan, La Union Contact Details: 0942 366 4519 (Mobile Number); [email protected] (E-Mail Address); http://sifcare.org/curma (Official Website)

SAN FERNANDO Tourist Spots

Ma cho temple.

The Ma Cho Temple is an iconic cultural landmark in San Fernando. Constructed in 1977, this is said to be the first Taoist temple in the Philippines and is dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu (Ma Cho).

Resting atop a hill, it affords a panoramic view of the San Fernando Harbor and the West Philippine Sea. It features the Altar of the Goddess of Ma Cho, the Altar of Our Heavenly Father, the Statues of the 18 Taoist Disciples, the Majestic Five-Door Gate, the Bamboo Garden, the Lian Thing Pagoda, The Goddess of Mercy (Kwan Yen), the Bell and Drum Tower, and its renowned Spider-Type Dome. The temple is open to both worshipers and non-worshipers.

There’s an annual pilgrimage wherein the image of Ma Cho travels from San Fernando to the Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Caysasay in Taal, Batangas during the 5th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar because many followers believe that Ma Cho and Our Lady of Caysasay are one and the same.

Address: Ma Cho Temple, Quezon Avenue, San Fernando, La Union Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the official website or Facebook page before going. Entrance Fee: FREE

Filipino-Chinese Friendship Pagoda

Also sitting on top of a hill, this Friendship Pagoda is a commemoration of the neighborly relations between the Filipinos and the Chinese people. It provides a scenic view of the city of San Fernando and the sea beyond.

At its feet lies a park where locals can just hang and unwind. (When we visited, locals stayed here to escape the heat and just chill.)

There are two entry points to the pagoda. The easier route is at the top where the signage is located, while the other one entails a short trek up from the public park entrance below.

One of the landmarks is the La Union Provincial Capitol building, located just a few meters away from the pagoda.

Address: Filipino-Chinese Friendship Pagoda, Aguila Road, San Fernando, La Union Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

Pindangan Ruins

Constructed in 1764 under the Spanish rule, the Pindanagan Ruins is what’s left of the first ever Catholic church of San Fernando — mostly the age-old stone walls and the buttresses.

Adjacent to the Carmelite Monastery, this historical landmark is managed and maintained by the Carmelite sisters.

Please avoid leaning on or climbing up the walls for your safety and for the preservation of the ruins.

Address: Pindangan, San Fernando, La Union Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the latest announcement first before going. Entrance Fee: P25 (Regular); P20 (Senior/Student); P500 (Photo Shoot and Video Shoot)

Halo-halo de Iloko

It is hot in La Union, especially in the dry, summer months. No wonder halo-halo is especially popular in the region. And when it comes to this dessert/snack, no other name in San Fernando can beat Halo-halo de Iloko (at least in terms of recall). It is said that the ingredients they use are fresh every day and are mostly sourced from local suppliers.

They also serve rice meals and snacks, but we ordered all three halo-halo items on their menu — Fiesta Halo-Halo (P120), Buko Halo-Halo (P195), and Pritong Halo-Halo (P150). The first two capture the taste of classic halo-halo we are all familiar with. (Don’t expect mind-blowing twists or special or unusual ingredients.)

What we enjoyed the most, however, was the pritong halo-halo, which is very different from the typical halo-halo fix. In this creative take, ingredients like bananas are served hot and stacked with ubeng halaya, cheese and other ingredients. The cherry on top is a nice touch, too. If you could order just one, make it this one.

Confidently marketed as La Union’s best, Halo-Halo de Iloko is usually crowded during peak hours. It is quite popular among locals and tourists alike. When we visited, we came before the peak hours so we were able to find a table. Before we finished our halo-halo, there was already a line of customers waiting outside. And it was mid-week!

By the way, if you are traveling by private car, the designated parking lot is far. We had a hard time securing a slot, so we opted to go for a pay-parking slot, which was a five-minute tricycle ride from Halo-Halo de Iloko.

Address: Zandueta Street, San Fernando, La Union Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the official Facebook page before going.

Christ the Redeemer Statue

San Fernando’s hilly terrain provides perfect sites for landmark structures such as the Ma Cho Temple and the Filipino-Chinese Friendship Pagoda. Besides these two, another significant hilltop landmark is the 25-foot Christ the Redeemer statue. Inaugurated in June 2007, the statue symbolizes overflowing gratitude, blessings, and protection.

We actually didn’t plan on making a stop here. We stumbled upon it by chance while looking for parking space, so we just decided to spend a bit of time here. It can be accessed by climbing a pretty steep alley in a concealed part of town.

It can get really hot at noon, so if you are planning to reach the top on foot, go here early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat. Anyway, it overlooking the city proper and the San Fernando Bay to the west, so it’s best to visit in late afternoon for the sunset.

Address: Reservoir Hill, Barangay I, San Fernando City, La Union Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

Thunderbird Poro Point Resort

Located at the highest point of Poro Point Peninsula and facing the San Fernando Bay, Thunderbird Poro Point encompasses a land area of about 65 hectares, housing luxurious villas, restaurants, wellness facilities, and a nine-hole golf course.

The resort’s impeccable Santorini-inspired theme and the sheer look-and-feel of the place do give off an exclusive vibe, which some may find intimidating. (We were kinda intimidated at first. LOL.) But day trip visitors are welcome here. The P300 entrance fee is consumable and is inclusive of access to some of the dining options and to explore and take photos in some areas, including the resort’s symbolic Santorini dome.

Pre-pandemic, day tour hours were from 8:00 AM to 5:00 pm. However, when we visited, we were told it would open at 11am. (They might have referred to the restaurant and we just misunderstood.) Anyway, we decided to just return past 11am. Unfortunately, it was really hot at the time. The sun was scorching and the white surroundings were blinding, so we weren’t able to explore much. We could have melted if we stayed any longer. So if you can, visit in the late afternoon, when the sun is less harsh.

We still had a grand time, though, because the resort is just gorgeous!

Address: Poro Point Freeport Zone, San Fernando City, La Union Day Tour Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily). Reservation is required at least 24 hours before arrival. Day Tour Entrance: P300/head (F&B consumable). If you want to access the swimming pool, check the official website or Facebook page for day tour package promos.

Poro Point Lighthouse

A short drive north of Thunderbird Resort, Poro Point Lighthouse is one of La Union’s historical landmarks, dating back to 1905 during the American occupation. Facing the West Philippine Sea, it rises at the height of 27 feet and serves as one of the points of interest in the Poro Point Freeport Zone.

Since it’s located just across Poro Point Baywalk, many locals include this spot in their walking, jogging, or cycling routes both in the morning and in the late afternoon (just in time for the sunset!)

Address: Poro Point Freeport Zone, San Fernando City, La Union Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

NORTHERN LA UNION Tourist Spots

Paraoir manmade forest.

If you’re going to Luna and you’re coming from San Juan, San Fernando or Immuki Island, you’ll be passing under its green canopy!

Dressing a significant portion of the Bacnotan-Luna-Balaoan Road, the long stretch of towering canopies creates a natural green tunnel, mesmerizing numerous travelers. People usually park their vehicles on the side of the road to take photos. It’s very similar to the mahogany forest in Bohol.

If you are planning to stop and take photos too, just remember that this is a major road, so make sure that you park your car properly to avoid obstructing the traffic and be careful when taking photos.

Nalvo Pebble Beach

Looking for unusual beaches in La Union? You need not go far because just 30-45 minutes away from San Juan is the town of Luna!

While the beaches of San Juan are strewn with relatively fine sand, Luna’s shore is covered in pebbles. The most popular part of this long stretch is the Nalvo Pebble Beach. You’ll find a number of resorts here, but it’s best known for the art galleries that punctuate it — Bahay na Bato, Bato de Luna, and Kamay na Bato. After exploring the beach, visit one or all of these art galleries and appreciate the pebble works and structures.

Location: Nalvo Norte and Nalvo Sur, Luna, La Union

Baluarte Watchtower

The Baluarte Watchtower , also called Luna Watchtower , is one of the five historic watchtowers in La Union declared by the National Museum of the Philippines as cultural treasures in 2014. This centuries-old structure served as a lookout tower for invading enemies such as Chinese, Japanese, and Moro pirates.

Today, the restored brick tower is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Luna. It also stands just next to the pebble beach, making it snap-worthy from almost any angle. (Well, not during our visit because an event was set to be staged at the site.)

If you get hungry, you can grab a drink and meal at nearby Lola Mending’s Cafe . Don’t forget to try the Baluarte Supreme churros , which takes the shape of the watchtower!

Address: Barangay Victoria, Luna, La Union Opening Hours: 24/7 Entrance Fee: FREE

Bahay na Bato

This extensive art gallery used to be the vacation house of Dr. Edison and Dr. Purita Chan-Noble. Situated on the pebble beach of Barangay Nalvo Norte, the property is mostly built using pebbles and stones.

The first things you’ll probably notice are the statues scattered throughout the site. They vary greatly in terms of theme and design, but our favorites are those whimsical and almost tongue-in-cheek artworks that show the artist’s sense of humor.

The indoor galleries also showcase Filipino artifacts. In between two houses lies a garden, adorned with trees, giving life to the seemingly cold and hard environment and giving visitors shaded sanctuary away from the burning sun.

The whole place caters to guests of all ages and boasts various Instagrammable photo spots. The property is also open for prenuptial shoots and other themed photoshoots.

If you want to maximize and enjoy your visit, avoid going during noon time when the sun is too merciless. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to go.

Address: Bahay na Bato, Nalvo Norte, Luna, La Union Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the official Facebook page before going. Entrance Fee: P50 (Regular); FREE (Below 2 y/o)

Bato de Luna

Can’t get enough of the pebble-lous installations and artworks? Bato de Luna is not too far from Bahay na Bato. Actually, from the main road (Bacnotan-Luna-Balaoan Road), when you make a turn on the barangay road leading to the art galleries, the first property you’ll see is Bato de Luna to your right.

You know you’re at the right place when you’re greeted by a gigantic statue of a turtle, made of, you guessed it, stones and pebbles! This is the site’s most prominent structure, which houses an interactive optical illusion floor painting, textured colorful walls filled with artworks, and a painted ceiling.

Bato de Luna puts on the spotlight the works of South Korean stone artist and sculptor, Mr. Bong Kim (whom I think is also the same creative mind behind some of the pieces at neighboring Bahay na Bato). Other attractions are quirky and naughty stone figures and colorful photo spots.

It also has a restaurant that offers breakfast meals as well as ‘unli rice’ and ‘unli sabaw’ meal options. You can also buy pasalubong from the souvenir shop.

Address: Bato de Luna, Nalvo Norte, Luna, La Union Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the official Facebook page before going. Entrance Fee: P50 (Regular)

Darigayos Beach

Compared to other beaches in the municipality of Luna, Darigayos Beach is not pebbly, but the cream-colored sand is not powdery fine either. Locals and some tourists still flock to the beach because the waves here are relatively calmer. There are parts that are shallow, but there are also parts that are deep, so always be on your guard and familiarize yourself with the beachscape first.

Choose a spot that you feel most comfortable swimming in. Open huts and cottages are available for rent.

Location: Darigayos Beach, Bacnotan – Luna – Balaoan Road, Luna, La Union

SOUTHERN LA UNION Tourist Spots

Ciano umok gallery & cafe ilocano.

NOTE: Ciano Umok might still be temporarily CLOSED for now. We’re trying to determine whether or not they are open but we have yet to receive confirmation. But we’ll still put this in the list just in case it opens soon.

We’ve already mentioned Bauang’s grape farms, but there are still plenty of other attractions on the southern end of the province. Also in Bauang is Ciano Umok Gallery & Cafe .

Nestled right smack in the middle of the hilly Barangay Palugsi-Limmansangan, the place functions as an art gallery and a restaurant. The gallery showcases the works of the owner, Cesar Dumo, and other local artists.

If you get hungry, try one of the homemade meals and snacks at the gallery’s in-house Cafe Ilocano . Usually, people stop here for halo-halo. Its version is a bit unusual, carrying only three ingredients — nata, kaong, and red mongo. Another unique thing about it is instead of ice and milk, they top it with something similar to ice cream. It’s like milk-flavored shaved ice that you can eat right away. You can totally skip the halo part.

Address: Barangay Palugsi-Limmansangan, Bauang, La Union Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the official Facebook page before going.

Agoo Eco Fun World

South of Bauang is the town of Agoo, named after the wispy Agoho trees that grow abundantly in the area. In fact, the highway leading to the town center is lined with these towering trees.

Launched in 2014, the Agoo Eco Fun World in Barangay Santa Rita West was developed by the local government and is part of reforestation efforts of the DENR. Locals and tourists alike are drawn to its enchanting manmade forest featuring thousands of Agoho trees, a lagoon, the view of Mount Katayagan, and the beach that faces the Lingayen Gulf.

The whole place is picture-worthy, making it one of the popular destinations for photoshoots. Visitors can also rent picnic huts at the beach area, spread their own mats, or pitch their own tents.

Some of the things to do here are having a picnic, nature bathing, swimming, sunbathing, watching the sunset, kiteflying, jogging, walking, appreciating the mangroves, and doing ‘aura’ photo sessions. Please clean up after yourself if you are planning to have a picnic here.

The best time to go is early morning when the sun is still not too high and late afternoon if you want to catch the sunset.

Address: Agoo Eco Fun World, Barangay Santa Rita West, Agoo, La Union Environmental Fee: P15 (Adults); P10 (Senior & PWD); FREE (Children below 3ft) Parking Fee: P10 (Tricycle & Motorcycle); P20 (Other Vehicles) Rental Fees: P500 (Big Cottage); P1,500 (Pavilion) Commercial Photoshoot/Videoshoot: P2,000

Agoo Basilica

Founded in 1578 by the Franciscan order, Agoo Basilica , officially named Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Charity , was first dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi. The current Mexocan-Baroque structure dates back to 1975, but it was officially opened to the public in 1978.

After the destructive earthquake of 1990, the 19th-century bell tower was destroyed and the church had to undergo a major reconstruction. However, the bell tower was beyond repair and had to be replaced by a new one.

The present-day minor basilica has two bell towers, doors with Hebrew-script carvings of the ten commandments, a pipe organ, and an underground cemetery and chapel where it also houses holy relics of saints. It is the seat of the Santa Monica Parish of the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Fernando de La Union.

Address: Grotto Road corner MacArthur Highway, Poblacion, Agoo, La Union

PUGAD Pugo Adventure

Situated further inland, far from the coastal towns of La Union, Pugo’s forested and mountainous landscape is a perfect ‘nest’ for PUGAD Pugo Adventure , a very popular leisure and adventure park. Sharing its border with Baguio , the town is blessed with relatively cooler temperature.

It prides itself on being the first to offer zipline adventure in La Union. Other features include a botanical garden, mini zoological park, and swimming pools! Aside from ziplining, guests can also ride ATVs, try the Giant Swing, play Paintball, or do wall climbing.

Although it’s far from the city and major highways, the park is still accessible via public transportation. If you are driving your own car, you can access it via Agoo-Baguio Road (Jose D. Aspiras Highway), then turning to PUGAD Trail. There’s a huge signage directing guests to that road.

Address: PUGAD Pugo Adventure, Pugo, La Union Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily). Note that the schedule may change, so check the official Facebook page before going. Entrance Fee: P200 (Adults); P150 (Kids 4ft below); FREE (Kids 2ft below). The rates include access to the swimming pools. Activities: P250-400 (Zipline 1-3); P350/head (ATV); P150/head (Wall Climbing); P250/head (Giant Swing); P250/head (Australian Rundown); P400/head (Paintball). You can also avail of the package options. Check the official Facebook page for the inclusions per package.

Top La Union Resorts and Hotels

If you wish to explore most of La Union, the town of San Juan and the city of San Fernando are the best areas for your base. Both are located at the center of the province. From either, you can easily reach most of the attractions listed above.

We stayed at Urbiz Garden , a beachfront bed-and-breakfast in Urbiztondo, San Juan. I always stay here because of its location, between the highway and the beach.

But if you’d rather stay at a hotel, hostel or resort, here are some of the top properties that can be booked via Agoda.

• The Escape , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Aureo Resort La Union , San Fernando. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• P and M Final Option Hotel , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• The Circle Hostel – La Union , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Awesome Hotel La Union , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• The Little Surfmaid Resort , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• G Hotel La Union , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Thunderbird Resorts – Poro Point , San Fernando. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• EL Navi Surftown , San Juan. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more La Union Resorts!

Written by Asta Alvarez Photos by Yosh Dimen Additional words by Yosh Dimen & Mariah Cruz Additional photos by Mariah Cruz & Pycan Leynes 2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣2️⃣ • 4️⃣ • 1️⃣6️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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Region of Murcia

The mining industry plays a key role in La Unión’s singular scenery.

La Unión is located in Murcia in south-eastern Spain, between the beaches of the Mar Menor saltwater lagoon and the Mediterranean Sea. This city has long had close ties with mining, and still does to this day. For many years, it was the city’s main industrial activity. Today visitors can learn more about it at the former Workers’ Lyceum, which was built in 1901 and has now been transformed into the Mining Museum, and the La Unión Mining Park. It has 50,000 m² and offers visitors the chance to go down into an old underground mine, and take a ride on a mining train. The city’s historic heritage can also be explored through places such as the Casa del Piñón residence and the old Public Market, as well as in the traditional architecture of buildings like La Cooperativa.

There are two red-letter dates on La Unión’s calendar: the Easter Week celebrations and the Cante de las Minas Festival in August. This is the world’s most important flamenco festival and has been designated a Festival of International Tourist Interest. A visit to the museum dedicated to this festival is also highly recommended.

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Cante de las Minas Festival

03 August 2024 - 12 August 2024

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LU TOURISM STAKEHOLDERS RECOGNIZED

By: Joy Ann L. Gurtiza, GPC-PIO | Photo By: Sonny A. Buenaventura, GPC-MPIU | Date: September 24, 2019

On behalf of Gov. Francisco Emmanuel “Pacoy” R. Ortega III, Provincial Information Officer Adamor L. Dagang expresses the province’s appreciation of the support of La Union tourism stakeholders to the tourism program and projects of the provincial government and in helping carry out the vision of the province to become the Heart of Agri-Tourism in Northern Luzon by 2025 during the Appreciation Night for Tourism Stakeholders as part of the La Union Tourism Summit 2019 held on September 24, 2019 at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Convention Hall, City of San Fernando, La Union.

In recognition of their service excellence and innovations, the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) headed by Gov. Francisco Emmanuel “Pacoy” R. Ortega III gave recognition to La Union stakeholders during the Grand Ball for Tourism Stakeholders as part of the La Union Tourism Summit 2019 held on September 24, 2019 at the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Convention Hall, City of San Fernando, La Union.

Anchored on the United Nation’s World Tourism Day 2019 theme “Tourism and Jobs: A Better Future for All,” the initiative was conceptualized to recognize tourism businesses and stakeholders who made significant contributions in support to the Agri-Tourism strategy and to the development of the province’s tourism industry as a whole. The awards’ criteria included the quality of service, accreditation, feedback, innovative aspects and other contributions to the sector.

On behalf of Gov. Pacoy, Provincial Information Officer Adamor L. Dagang said that the province appreciates the stakeholder’s efforts and support to the tourism program and projects of PGLU and helping carry out the vision of the province. He added that PGLU is doing its best to preserve, develop and promote the tourism destinations, culture, and products of the province.

Department of Tourism – Region 1 Director Martin S. Valera praised the initiative of PGLU to ensure that stakeholders from the tourism industry are recognized and awarded. “Let us all strive and help one another for the protection and sustainability of the tourism industry for the future generations and tourists to enjoy and experience,” he said. The awardees were hailed as the “primary movers” of the programs and projects that aim to strengthen tourism as one of the major economic drivers of the province.

Awards given were Outstanding Local Government Unit (LGU) Implementer of Tourism Development Planning Initiatives Award to the Municipal Governments of Aringay, Pugo, and Santo Tomas; Outstanding LGU Implementer of Tourism Statistics Reporting Award to Municipal Governments of Bauang, Agoo and Naguilian; and Accredited Entities for Three Consecutive Years Award for selected Hotels, Resort, Mabuhay Accommodations, Restaurants, Farm Sites, Travel and Tour Agencies, Tourist Land Transport Operators and Tour Guides.

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