La Union

For the railway station, see Los Angeles Union Station.

Not to be confused with La Unión or L'Union.

La Union
Province
(from top: left to right) Baluarte Watch Tower, Eagle of the North, San Juan, Namacpacan Church, Ma-Cho Taoist Temple, and Mt. Kimmallugong
Flag Seal
Nickname:  Elyu
Motto(s):  "Love, Union, Concord"
Anthem: La Union Hymn
Location in the Philippines
OpenStreetMap
Coordinates: 16°30′N 120°25′E
Country	Philippines
Region	Ilocos Region
Founded	March 2, 1850
Capital and largest city	San Fernando
Government
• Governor	Raphaelle Ortega-David (NPC)
• Vice Governor	Mario Eduardo C. Ortega (PFP)
• Legislature	La Union Provincial Board
Area
• Total	1,497.70 km2 (578.27 sq mi)
• Rank	69th out of 81
Highest elevation (Mount Talalang)	1,520 m (4,990 ft)
Population  (2020 census)
• Total	822,352
• Rank	37th out of 81
• Density	550/km2 (1,400/sq mi)
• Rank	9th out of 81
Demonyms	La Unionen La Unionense
Divisions
• Independent cities	0
• Component cities	1 San Fernando
• Municipalities	19 Agoo Aringay Bacnotan Bagulin Balaoan Bangar Bauang Burgos Caba Luna Naguilian Pugo Rosario San Gabriel San Juan Santo Tomas Santol Sudipen Tubao
• Barangays	576
• Districts	Legislative districts of La Union
Time zone	UTC+8 (PHT)
ZIP code	2500–2520
IDD : area code	+63 (0)72
ISO 3166 code	PH-LUN
Languages	Ilocano (official) Pangasinan Kankanaey Ibaloi Tagalog English
Website	www.launion.gov.ph

La Union (Tagalog pronunciation: [lɐ ʔʊˈɲon]), officially the Province of La Union (Ilocano: Probinsia ti La Union; Tagalog: Lalawigan ng La Union), is a coastal province in the Philippines situated in the Ilocos Region on the island of Luzon. The province's capital, the City of San Fernando, is the most populous city in La Union and serves as the regional center of the Ilocos Region.

Bordered by Ilocos Sur to the north, Benguet to the east, and Pangasinan to the south, with the South China Sea to the west, La Union is located 273 kilometers (170 miles) north of Metro Manila and 57 kilometers (35 miles) northwest of Baguio City. The province spans an area of 1,497.70 square kilometers (578.27 square miles). As of the 2020 census, La Union had a population of 822,352, resulting in a density of 550 inhabitants per square kilometer or 1,400 per square mile. The province had 538,730 registered voters as of 2022. The province official language is Iloco (Ilocano), as declared by the provincial government of La Union.

La Union is renowned for its picturesque coastal towns, popular surfing spots, and pristine beaches. The province is rich in natural and cultural attractions, offering activities such as red clay pottery, grape picking, loom weaving, and pilgrimage tours to historic churches, alongside beautiful waterfalls and eco-tours. The population includes both the Ilocano people from the lowlands and the Igorot people from the highlands, contributing to its diverse cultural heritage.

History

Early History

See also: History of the Philippines (900–1565)

During its early history, the province was inhabited by various ethnolinguistic groups, including the Ilocanos, Pangasinenses, and Cordillerans (Igorots), who actively engaged in trading and bartering while practicing animistic and polytheistic indigenous religions and traditions.

In the northern region, early settlements were established along the coastal plains of Purao (now Balaoan), Darigayos, and the areas surrounding the Amburayan River. These settlements were primarily inhabited by the Samtoy (Ilocanos). Historian William Henry Scott documented that Balaoan was historically referred to as being "rich in gold" due to its proximity to the gold mines in the Cordillera region. The town served as an emporium for the exchange of Igorot gold through barter and trade among lowlanders, highlanders, and foreign merchants in Tagudin. Similarly, Baratao (now Bauang) has been identified by historians as a settlement of comparable importance to Purao.

In the southern region, the areas of Agoo and Aringuey (now Aringay) were early settlements of the Pangasinenses. Agoo functioned as a trading port with Sual as its only rival, frequented by Japanese and Chinese ships, whose merchants engaged in commerce or bartered gold with natives. Aringuey served as a coastal maritime trading hub and the terminus of the Aringay-Tonglo-Balatok gold trail, located along the delta of the Aringay (Ifugao) River. This route facilitated the transport of gold from the Ibaloi villages of Acupan and Balatok in the southern areas of present-day Benguet to the trading centers of Aringay, with further distribution to the port settlement of Agoo.

These trading activities were part of a larger maritime exchange network that extended across the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea. Products exchanged within this network included porcelain, silk, cotton, beeswax, gems, beads, and precious minerals, with gold being a significant commodity. Artifacts like porcelain and pottery, uncovered during the renovation of the Catholic church in Agoo and now housed in the Museo de Iloko testify to this trade activity.

Spanish Colonial Era

See also: Spanish Colonial Era (Philippines)

16th Century

A year after Miguel Lopez de Legazpi made Manila the capital of the Philippines on June 24, 1571, the Spaniards started the colonization in Northern Luzon "to pacify the people in it".

Spanish Conquistador Don Juan de Salcedo

In June 1572, Spanish explorers led by conquistador Juan de Salcedo, the grandson of Miguel López de Legazpi, navigated the Angalacan River to the Lingayen Gulf, where they encountered and attacked three Japanese ships. Following the retreat of the ships, Salcedo pursued them and arrived at a Japanese settlement in Agoo. The Japanese mercenaries and local natives were subjugated and required to pay tribute to the Spanish Crown. Although some resisted initially, those who complied were allowed to remain. This interaction earned Agoo the title "el puerto de Japón" (Japanese Port) as it had long been a hub for trade among Japanese, Chinese merchants, and natives.

Japanese in the Philippines c. 1590s

Salcedo continued his expedition northward and arrived at what is now San Fernando. When he demanded tribute from the natives, they sought permission to ascend the mountains to gather their offerings but failed to return. Salcedo then proceeded to Atuley (modern-day San Juan) and encountered a large Ilocano settlement called "Purao," referring to the gleaming white sands of its beaches along the South China Sea.

When the residents of Purao refused to pay tribute, it led to the first recorded conflict in the Ilocos region, known as the Battle of Purao. This encounter resulted in the shedding of the first Ilocano blood in defiance of foreign rule. The river "Purao" was later renamed "Darigayos," derived from the Iloco words "dara" (blood) and "ayos" (flowed), meaning "where blood flowed." Continuing his journey, Salcedo arrived at Bigan (now Vigan), a settlement of Chinese traders, and formally established it as Villa Fernandina de Vigan in honor of Prince Ferdinand, the son of King Philip II of Spain.

Darigayos Inlet Map circa. 1902

In Purao, the Spaniards confronted the Ilocanos, who bravely refused to pay tribute. A battle ensued, marking the first bloodshed by the Ilocanos in defiance of foreign rule. Following this conflict, the river was renamed "Darigayos," derived from the Iloco words "dara" (blood) and "ayos" (flowed), signifying "where blood flowed." Salcedo and his men continued north toward Vigan, where they eventually established an uneasy friendship with the Ilocanos, who reluctantly accepted Spanish rule.

17th Century

By the 17th century, the Spanish had established settlements, or pueblos, organized into sitios and rancherias, in Igorot land in La Union. These were governed by a cabeza de barangay, gobernadorcillo, and alcalde-mayor, with many of these settlements established by Augustinian friars during the 16th century's expansion phase.

Society during this period was divided into two classes: the babaknang and the cailianes. The baknang or babaknang means "the rich" and agtuturay or agturay refers to "the powers-that be" or "the authorities." Propertied, landed, and educated, they formed the local elite class or were the principalia or insulares who spoke Castilian, On the other hand, the unlearned cailianes had less or no property that spoke Iloco, Pangasinan, Kankanai and Ibaloi. Iloco served as the province's lingua franca.

The Spaniards' search for gold (oro) in Igorot territories fueled their expeditions. Religious orders were also motivated by opportunities for missionary work. By 1620, however, the gold trade had begun to decline in the province. Captain Garcia de Aldana led expeditions into areas like Aringay, Bauang, and San Juan, while Sargento Mayor y Capitan Alonso Martin Quirante centralized the industry in 1624, deploying a force of 1,748 troops, including Spaniards, Chinese, Japanese, Mexicans, and 500 Ilocanos. Natives and mercenaries were often forced to reveal gold sources. Many converted to Christianity to avoid persecution, while others fled to the Cordilleras.

By 1660, Agoo became a strategic departure point for raids led by Pangasinan’s self-proclaimed king, Andres Malong, who attacked Ilocos towns with an army of Pangasinenses, Zambals, and Negritos.

18th Century

In the early 1700s, Spanish missions in Agoo, Bauang, and Bacnotan aimed to convert resettled Igorots through the Spanish reducción policy, which subjected natives to harsh treatment. By 1739, friars discovered that Bangar engaged in barter trade with the Igorots in the east. Smuggling became rampant under the Tobacco Monopoly in the late 1700s, impacting Spanish revenues significantly by 1788. Despite Spanish efforts to control the highlands, the Igorots retained their autonomy well into the 19th century.

In 1754, Igorot chieftain Lacaaden of Bukiagan (now part of Tubao) negotiated with the Spaniards to avoid punitive expeditions by requesting missionaries for his people. This led to the baptism of Igorot leaders in Tondo under Governor-General Pedro Manuel de Arandía Santisteban. However, resistance resumed in 1759, prompting Pangasinan Governor Arza to launch a military campaign. On March 18, Lacaaden led a five-hour battle against Spanish forces armed with rifles and artillery. The Igorots held their ground, forcing the Spaniards to retreat along what is now Naguilian Highway, burning villages along the way.

The town of Caba became notable as the birthplace of Diego Silang, leader of the Ilocos Revolt (1762–1765) during the British occupation of Manila. Silang persuaded the gobernadorcillo of Balaoan to encourage Ilocanos and Igorots in the town to join his anti-British struggle, which extended to the revolt in Vigan.

19th Century

On February 2, 1818, the Real Cédula divided Ilocos Province into Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. Balaoan, Bangar, and Namacpacan (Luna) were incorporated into Ilocos Sur on February 10, 1819.

In 1820, Bangar’s gobernadorcillo Don Agustin de Valencia and Igorot headman Don Agustin Decdec of Kayan (now Sudipen) signed a bodong (peace pact), which revived trade between the lowlands and highlands. By 1826, the Spanish established the Commandancia del Pais de Ygorrotes y Partido del Norte de Pangasinan to combat tobacco smuggling. Lieutenant Colonel Guillermo Galvey led campaigns into the Cordilleras, using towns like Agoo, Bauang, Bacnotan, and San Juan as military bases.

Baluarte Watch Tower, Luna

San Juan Watchtower, La Union

Coastal towns frequently faced raids by Moro marauders locally know as tirongs (raiders, attackers, pirates) and Chinese pirates, who looted barrios or villages and captured women and children. To counter these attacks, the Spaniards built circular adobe watchtowers, or baluartes, in 1836. These structures, ranging from 6 to 7 meters in height, were constructed along the coastline in towns such as Namacpacan (Luna), Balaoan, San Fernando, and Bauang. These baluartes played a crucial role in protecting coastal settlements and securing trade routes throughout the 19th century.

Formation of La Union

La Union was officially established on March 2, 1850, through the unification of territories from the provinces of Ilocos Sur, Pangasinan, and the Cordillera, making it the 34th province of the Philippines. After Cebu became the first provincia in 1565, new provinces have been created by the Spaniards. Three main functions were considered so: Political-Civil Administration, Ecclesiastical governance and Geographical considerations. For more than two and one-half centuries, the original Ilocos province remained intact until 1818 when it split into llocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. In 1846, Abra was created by Governor General Narciso Zaldua Claveria.

1899 Philippine Administrative Divisions

Governor General Narciso Zaldua Claveria was a visionary administrator who recognized the need for innovative solutions to address the demands of political and civil administration. He proposed combining three contiguous areas that were far from their respective provincial capitals, seeing it as a viable approach to improve governance. Claveria also recognized the agricultural and commercial potential of the territory. Moreover, he saw this initiative as an opportunity to extend Hispanic civilization and Christianity to the area.

Distance posed significant challenges to local administration. From Vigan, the capital of Ilocos Sur, the three southernmost pueblos (Balaoan, Namacpacan, and Bangar) were located approximately 13 to 14 hours away on foot. The cailianes and the babaknang often complained about the physical distance from their officials in the cabecera or capital town. Similarly, from Lingayen, the capital of Pangasinan, the nine northern pueblos (Santo Tomas, Agoo, Aringay, Cava, Bauang, Naguilian, San Fernando, San Juan, and Bacnotan) were also burdened by the 13 ½ hours of travel required from Bacnotan.

The situation was even worse for the 40 to 45 rancherías located in the depths of the Eastern País del Igorotes. The commandancia established in 1826 proved ineffective in maintaining order among the Igorrotes, whose remoteness from central authorities led to rampant smuggling of tobacco and other merchandise, thereby disrupting the region's economic stability.

Thus on October 29, 1849, Governor General Claveria signed the promovido (proposal) to unite the Pangasinan-Ilocos-Cordillera areas into a new province called La Union (the official name designated by Claveria himself) as San Fernando as cabecera (capital) and Amburayan River in the north and Rabon River in the south as provincial boundaries. For 124 days, high and important Spanish colonial officers studied and deliberated on the proposition to create La Union or not. On March 2, 1850, Governor General Antonio María Blanco signed the superior decreto that founded La Union – the 34th province since the founding of Cebu in 1565. It was classified as a Gobierno Politico-Militar (Political-Military Government). Blanco appointed, on March 4, 1850, Captain Toribio Ruiz de la Escalera (Claveria's former trusted aide de camp) as the first Gobernador Military y Politico. La Union is the union of lands, people, cultures and resources. On April 18, 1854, Queen Isabella II of Spain issued the real orden (royal decree) from Madrid confirming Blanco's superior decreto.

Tubao and Rosario became towns in La Union in 1869 and 1885, respectively. In 1869, Governor-General de la Torre converted Concepcion into Rosario, which remained spiritually dependent on Santo Tomas. Despite the bishop's refusal to assign an assistant priest, Rosario became the 13th town, with its priest overseeing both towns. In 1885, after 12 years of petitions, Tubao was officially recognized as the 14th town as San Isidro de Tubao, named after the patron saint of farmers.

By 1860, there was significant progress in commerce and agriculture in the province. La Union became an exporter of tobacco, rice, and sibucao from the 1860s to the 1880s. Tobacco was the primary product and the reason for the province's economic growth. Spanish authorities relied heavily on the prized leaf for further economic development. The industry was so lucrative that a Tobacco Monopoly was established. All tobacco leaves were strictly monitored and purchased exclusively by the government at a fixed price.

Simultaneously, other provinces were also experiencing economic growth. Relying on its own indigenous resources, La Union did not import rice, palay, tobacco, sibucao, or other products during this period. By 1887, the province's population had grown to 100,775, and Don Manuel Esteban y Espinosa served as its last governor in 1898.

Philippine Revolution

See also: Philippine Revolution

Tubao Municipal Officials circa 1896-1901

The Philippine Revolution began in 1896, but La Union initially saw limited revolutionary activity. On November 15, 1896, the newspaper La Campaña de Filipinas reported that the provinces of Ilocos and La Union were "not up in arms" but showed "sympathy for the uprising." Despite this initial passivity, the province eventually joined the struggle against Spanish colonial rule. In response, Spanish authorities enacted severe reprisals, including torture and false accusations, often targeting local elites, clergy, and suspected rebels.

In 1896, three native coadjutor priests from La Union, Padre Adriano Garces of Balaoan, Padre Mariano Gaerlan of San Fernando, and Padre Mariano Dacanay of Bacnotan, were arrested and charged with masterminding a "supposed conspiracy" in La Union. They were brutally tortured by friars and the Guardia Civil in Vigan, enduring inhumane treatment that left lifelong scars on survivors like Padre Dacanay.

In Balaoan, a secret revolutionary group formed by seven prominent citizens namely; Luciano Resurreccion, Proceso Ostrea, Antonio Ostrea, Rufino Zambrano, Fernando Ostrea, Patricio Lopez, and Julian Peralta—sought to revolt against the tyranny of the Guardia Civil and Cora Parrocos. The group was betrayed by Captain Juan of Agoo to the friars. They were arrested, and without trial, executed by firing squad at the town cemetery. Only one of the men survived, having been wounded in the leg. In their honor, a Masonic lodge named Siete Martires was established.

In Agoo, around 60 suspected subversives were executed by the Guardia Civil and their bodies later interred in a corner of the town plaza. In nearby Aringay, 96 citizens were shot without trial by Spanish forces. A monument was later erected in the plaza to honor these patriots. On September 10, 1896, Spanish authorities, led by Friar Rafael Redondo, arrested Dr. Lucino Almeida, the highest-ranking native official in La Union, along with other suspected revolutionaries. They were accused of involvement in a fabricated conspiracy to assassinate Spanish officials, based on a false confession from a telegrapher. Almeida and 20 other prominent natives were exiled to Balabac Island, Palawan.

Despite these events, La Union was hailed as "una provincia modelo" (a model province) in 1897 by the pro-government El Comercio for its contributions to Spain's defense. However, in 1898, the relative tranquility of La Union was shattered when an uprising and massacre in Santo Tomas ignited widespread agitation.

Uprising of 1898

The revolution in La Union began on May 22, 1898, when a small uprising in Santo Tomas, triggered by the killing of the despised Augustinian friar Mariano Garcia, marked the end of Spanish rule in the province. The subsequent violence led to the massacre of various individuals, including Garcia and others. Women also became victims of brutal acts, with one storekeeper in San Fernando left mentally deranged. In San Juan, pro-Spanish inhabitants were massacred, while in Caba, pro-Spanish sympathizers were captured and held incommunicado in the mountains. In Bauang, revolutionaries clashed with Spanish soldiers and seized the town hall, led by Captain Remigio Patacsil.

Gen. Manuel Tinio, the leader who led the Philippine revolution in La Union

From May to August 1898, citizens of La Union fought several heroic battles against the Spanish forces in key towns such as Darigayos (Luna), Bacnotan, Rabon (Rosario), San Fernando, Bangar, and Balaoan. Despite heavy losses and diminishing supplies, Spanish forces under Lieutenant Colonel Jose Herreros mounted a five-day defense in Casa Real. However, they were eventually overwhelmed by revolutionaries in towns like Bangar, Bacnotan, and Balaoan, and the Spaniards were forced to surrender. The final stand in Balaoan saw Spanish forces barricaded in the convent, but despite their valiant defense, they were outmaneuvered, and many escaped to Ilocos Sur.

On July 22, Novo-Ecijano troops, reinforced to over 600 men, arrived in San Fernando after Dagupan surrendered to General Francisco Makabulos. The city was under siege by revolutionaries led by General Mauro Ortiz. Spanish forces, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Jose Garcia Herrero, fortified themselves in key buildings, awaiting reinforcements. The ensuing battle lasted for 120 hours, with the Spanish troops enduring extreme conditions. Major Ceballos, who had surrendered in Dagupan, attempted to negotiate the surrender of Spanish forces in San Fernando, ultimately convincing Herreros to capitulate. The proud Spaniards with the Cuerpos de Voluntaries (Corps of Volunteers) did not simply put up the white flag. This led to the signing of the Actas de Capitulaciones (Acts of Surrender), and San Fernando became the 13th of 29 towns to witness Spanish surrender, with 400 soldiers and eight officers capitulating.

After securing San Fernando, the Tinio Brigade and other revolutionaries continued north from July 31 to August 18, 1898. Key battlegrounds included the rice fields of San Juan, Bacnotan, Namacpacan, Balaoan, and Bangar. Many local Katipuneros joined the Tinio Brigade after this ordeal, which saw stubborn resistance from entrenched Spanish troops in the convent.

Final Victory

Katipuneros c.1890s

In the Amburayan Valley, Spanish forces built defensive trenches and placed bamboo traps. However, the revolutionaries, buoyed by previous victories, attacked with renewed vigor. In San Juan, they burned municipal buildings and the homes of Spanish insulares, resulting in a massacre of over 100 families attempting to flee. In Agoo, pro-Spanish sympathizers were captured and executed in the mountains.

As Spanish forces retreated, they reinforced their positions in Balaoan and Bangar, but revolutionaries quickly fortified their own defenses. Any potential reinforcements from neighboring regions were blocked. In Darigayos Cove, Filipino rebels burned all anchored boats, preventing escape by sea. The revolutionaries then moved to Bangar, successfully besieging the Spanish forces, resulting in a decisive victory on August 7, 1898. The surrender of 87 Spaniards marked a significant milestone, with the remaining forces fleeing to Ilocos after just four days of fighting, which saw minimal Filipino casualties.

By August 18, 1898, La Union had achieved final victory, marking the definitive collapse of Spanish resistance in the region. This victory brought the revolutionaries closer to their ultimate goal of freedom from Spanish colonial rule.

American Colonial Era

See also: American colonial era in the Philippines

San Fernando

Naguilian

Rosario

Aerial Landing Fields in La Union, American Regime, 1930-1940s

The American colonization of La Union began after the Spanish-American War in 1898 when the Philippines was ceded to the United States under the Treaty of Paris. Following the Philippine-American War (1899–1902), La Union was reorganized under American colonial administration, leading to significant political, economic, and social changes.

During the Philippine-American War, La Union experienced military conflicts and battles as American forces aimed to assert control over the province. The war was marked by significant abuses against the native population, including forced relocations, extrajudicial killings, and the destruction of property. These abuses led to widespread native resentment and resistance against American forces across the province, reflecting their strong desire for independence and resistance to foreign control. Local leaders emerged, organizing guerrilla warfare and skirmishes in rural areas, mobilizing their communities against the colonial authorities and highlighting the harsh realities of American imperialism.

After the Americans successfully took over the province, the American administration implemented democratic processes that were given equal importance, facilitating the election of La Union's first Civil Governor in 1901, Don Joaquín Joaquino Ortega, marking a significant step in local governance. One of the most notable contributions of American colonization was the establishment of a highly centralized public school system in 1901, using English as the medium of instruction. This effort involved bringing 600 teachers from the U.S., known as the Thomasites, to educate Filipino students. The Thomasites were deployed at several public schools, notably in San Fernando, Bacnotan, Luna, Balaoan, Bauang, Naguilian, Agoo, and Rosario. Additionally, agricultural reforms focused on increasing the production of cash crops like tobacco, sugar, and abaca, benefiting La Union's primarily agricultural economy while reinforcing colonial dependence on the export market.

Tubao Municipal Building, c. 1940s

The American colonial government also established an Insular Government in La Union, which aimed to provide a framework for local administration and governance while maintaining overall control from the central government. This included local elections and the establishment of municipal governments, allowing Filipinos to participate in their governance.

In 1935, the Philippines transitioned to the Philippine Commonwealth, which provided greater autonomy and self-governance while still under U.S. oversight. This period allowed La Union to experience more local political engagement and development initiatives, although it ultimately reinforced colonial structures that limited true self-governance until the Philippines gained full independence in 1946. While the American period contributed to the modernization of La Union, it also left a complex legacy of colonial influence, dependency, and abuses against the native population. The memory of resistance and the struggle for identity during this time remains a significant aspect of La Union’s historical narrative, shaping the province's path toward self-determination and national pride.

Nine other equally able governors followed Don Joaquin before the outbreak of World War II: Joaquín Luna 1904–1907, Sixto Zandueta 1908–1919, Pío Ancheta 1919–1922, Thomas de Guzmán 1922 1923, 1928–1931, Juan Lucero 1923–1929, Mauro Ortiz 1931–1934, Juan Rivera 1934–1937, Francisco Nisce 1937–1940 and Bernardo Gapuz 1940. Just as when the Filipinos were awaiting independence, as promised by the Americans under the Tydings-Mcduffie Law, World War II exploded.

Japanese Occupation

See also: World War II in the Philippines and Japanese Invasion of Lingayen Gulf

Lingayen Gulf Landings and the Japanese Advance, December 1941

The Japanese invasion of La Union during World War II was a pivotal moment in the province's history, given its strategic importance to both Allied and Japanese forces. In December 1941, Japanese troops landed in Agoo, swiftly securing control over the area by early 1942. Despite the overwhelming challenges, Filipinos, alongside American forces, mounted resistance against the occupation. During this turbulent period, Governors Bernardo Gapuz, Jorge Camacho, and Bonifacio Tadiar played key roles in leading and supporting the people of La Union. Under Japanese rule, the province endured strict military controls, forced labor, food shortages, and widespread violence. Yet, resistance movements emerged, with many locals engaging in guerrilla warfare to oppose the occupation. This period underscores the resilience and unwavering spirit of La Union's people in the face of great adversity.

Battle of Rosario (Japanese Invasion of Lingayen Gulf)

US Navy Battleship entering Lingayen Gulf, January 1945

A monument honoring WWII heroes, veterans, and guerrillas in Rosario, La Union.

On December 22, 1941, the Japanese 4th Tank Regiment and the 47th Infantry Regiment under the command of Col. Isamu Yanagi, supported by a massive flotilla of navy ships tried to land in Agoo to make it one of three major beachheads for the Japanese Invasion of Lingayen Gulf, although weather dispersed their forces and made them deploy on a wide stretch of beach that ranged from Poro Point (San Fernando) to as far south as Damortis. These forces later met the commonwealth defence forces—consisting of the 26th Cavalry Regiment (Philippine Scouts), the Philippine 21st Division, the Philippine 11th Division, and the newly formed Philippine 71st Division—in what would later be called the Battle of Rosario.

Battle of Bacnotan

Invading Japanese soldiers arrived at Bacnotan on December 21, 1941, during the early days of World War II. On January 4, 1945, the tides of war changed in La Union as Filipino-American soldiers captured Baroro Bridge in Bacnotan, a strategic bridge that connects the rest of Northern Luzon to San Fernando. The victory ensured the liberation of La Union. It was followed by the historic Battle of San Fernando and Bacsil Ridge. Defeated, the Japanese Imperial Army retreated to Baguio where they joined their comrades and made their last stand.

The Battle of Bacsil Ridge

The Battle of Bacsil Ridge was fought in March 1945 was one of the continued main battles of the Philippines Campaign of the Second World War are between the Filipino soldiers under the 121st Infantry Regiment, Philippine Commonwealth Army, USAFIP-NL, under the command of Russell W. Volckmann, and the Japanese Imperial forces under by General Tomoyuki Yamashita.

Vicinity of the NHCP Historical Marker for the Battle of San Fernando

The Monument of the Unknown Soldier, San Fernando City

The Battle of Bacsil Ridge ended the month-long battle for control of San Fernando. The Japanese defenders called the Hayashi Detachment, composed of 3,000 armed troops and 2,000 unarmed support forces, took hold of San Fernando and its surrounding areas which denied entry to the port of the city and a road leading to Baguio. As part of the San Fernando-Bacsil Operations, the 1st Battalion of 121st Infantry were sent to loosen the enemy positions starting late February with the assistance of the Allied Air Force.

The 1st Battalion made a general attack to the ridge on 16 March 1945 and fought the Japanese defenders until the capture of Bacsil on 19 March. On the same day, the 3rd battalion captured the Reservoir Hill. The Battle of Bacsil Ridge between the Filipino soldiers and recognized guerrillas and the Japanese Forces resulted in the recapture of the city of San Fernando, La Union. Which resulted in the capture of San Fernando, La Union on 23 March 1945, and Bacnotan, La Union and the military offensive throughout the province ended on 24 March after two months of fighting.

Liberation of Bauang

The Liberation of Bauang, La Union was part of the San Fernando-Bascil operations aimed to liberate the province of La Union and open one of the roads to Baguio. Units from Rosario, La Union including elements of the 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry of the United States Army Forces in the Philippines – Northern Luzon (USAFIP-NL) under the command of Major Diego Sipin, were tasked to make the northward advance to Bauang. The 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry, USAFIP-NL reinforce the other battalions in the efforts to capture San Fernando. Meanwhile, combat units from the “B” company, 1st Battalion, 121st Infantry, USAFIP-NL attacked the defensive lines in Bauang to aid the 1st Battalion, 130th Infantry (US) in its advance from the south. Bauang was first liberated on 19 March 1945, followed by the declaration of the end of operations at La Union on 24 March 1945. On January 4, 1945, La Union was liberated by the Battle of San Fernando and Bacsil Ridge.

Approach of U.S. Naval Forces to Lingayen Gulf, January 1945 (Map)

As San Fernando was in ruins at the time, Bacnotan became the provisional seat of the province administration after the war. The La Union National High School was also relocated to Bacnotan as a result of this relocation. When things returned to normal, the provincial government was relocated to San Fernando, followed by the La Union National High School. The North Provincial High School was established after the provincial high school in Bacnotan was transferred (now Bacnotan National High School).

Post-war Era

See also: Tobacco production in the Philippines and Stonehill scandal

Harry Stonehill, Accused in the Stonehill Scandal

The postwar recovery period marked a return of the tobacco industry to the Ilocos Region. Ever since the end of the tobacco monopoly, tobacco production had declined in the Ilocos as filipinos started shifting from locally made cigars to foreign made cigarettes. But after reading a feature article series by Maximo Soliven which explained why Virginia tobacco would grow well on Ilocos soil, businessman Harry Stonehill was convinced to invest extensively in rebuilding the industry, establishing the Philippine Tobacco Flue-Curing and Redrying Corporation (PTFCRC) in 1951 and recruiting farmers from throughout Region 1 to produce tobacco. The following year, La Union Congressman Manuel T. Cases filed a bill to "limit the importation of foreign leaf tobacco," which was eventually signed by President Elpidio Quirino as Republic Act 698. This allowed Stonehill's investments to make a handsome profit, and the newly-rebuilt local industry to bloom. Stonehill was later deported a decade later, in the 1960s, for tax evasion and bribery of government officials, in what would later be called the Stonehill scandal, but the tobacco industry continued to grow.

During the Marcos Dictatorship

See also: Martial law under Ferdinand Marcos, Armando Palabay, Human rights abuses of the Marcos dictatorship, and Bantayog ng mga Bayani

Marcos Declares Martial Law: September 24, 1972, issue of the Sunday Express (Sunday edition of the Philippines Daily Express)

Although economically affected by the rapid peso devaluation brought about by unbridled election spending heading into the 1969 presidential elections, political life in La Union was not significantly impacted by Ferdinand Marcos’ declaration of Martial Law in 1972.

The powerful family factions which had dominated La Union politics since before the American colonial era largely remained in place, although the family of Congressman Jose D. Aspiras became much more prominent after he became Marcos’ Tourism Minister. The main political change was the increased power of regional and provincial offices of national agencies, whose directors were answerable directly to Marcos.

This technique used by Marcos to consolidate political power did not get much resistance in the Ilocos Region, including La Union, which had strong ethnic associations with the Marcos family. The Marcos administration's use of violent methods for stifling dissent thus mostly took place in other, non-Ilocano provinces, such as nearby Abra, Kalinga, and Mountain Province. Long-time second district congressman Manuel T. Cases had formed an alliance with Marcos along with the other strongman congressmen of the Ilocos Region, and his successor Jose D. Aspiras was also a close associate of Marcos who was made Minister of Tourism after Martial Law was declared.

Wall of Remembrance at the Bantayog ng mga Bayani including Armando Palabay

But there were still La Union natives who were willing to object to the authoritarian practices and abuses of the Marcos administration, despite personal risk. This included San-Fernando-raised student activists Romulo and Armando Palabay, UP Students and La Union National High School alumni who were imprisoned for their protest activities, tortured at Camp Olivas in Pampanga, and later separately killed before the end of Martial Law. Romulo (age 22) and Armando (age 21) were posthumously honored when their names were etched on the Wall of Remembrance at the Philippines' Bantayog ng mga Bayani, which honors the heroes and martyrs who fought the authoritarian regime.

Agoo, La Union, native Antonio L. Mabutas had become Archbishop of Davao by the time of Martial Law, and spoke actively against the human rights abuses of that time, particularly the torture and killings of church workers. The pastoral letter he wrote against Martial law, “Reign of Terror in the Countryside,” is notable for having been the first pastoral to be written against Marcos' martial law administration, and even doubly notable because Mabutas was considered a conservative within the Catholic church hierarchy in the Philippines.

Contemporary

1990 Luzon earthquake

Main article: 1990 Luzon earthquake

La Union was severely hit by the 1990 Luzon earthquake. Five municipalities in La Union were affected: Agoo, Aringay, Caba, Santo Tomas, and Tubao with a combined population of 132,208. Many buildings, including the Agoo Municipal hall, the Museo de Iloko, the parish church of Aringay, and the Basilica Minore of our Lady of Charity, collapsed or were severely damaged. 100,000 families were displaced when two coastal villages sank due to liquefaction. The province suffered many casualties leaving 32 people dead.

2010s Tourism Boom

See also: Tarlac–Pangasinan–La Union Expressway and Manuel Arguilla

San Juan Surf: Surfing Capital of the Northern Philippines

From the mid-2000s to the early 2010s, an influx of entrepreneurs began putting up establishments such as boho-chic-style art hostels and third-wave coffeeshops in San Juan and Agoo. They were initially attracted to the already-established surfing scene of Barangay Urbiztondo in San Juan, but eventually envisioned business in the province as an alternative to the stresses of city-based employment. This coincided with the phase-by-phase opening of the Tarlac–Pangasinan–La Union Expressway (TPLEX), which made La Union more accessible to tourists from Metro Manila.

Alongside the rising influence of social media outlets Twitter and Instagram, these factors led to a drastic tourism boom that made San Juan—previously been seen as just one of the Philippines' many surfing venues—a major backpacker's destination whose attractions centered on surfing and art.

San Juan began to be featured prominently in independent films such as Jay Abello's 2015 film Flotsam and JP Habac's 2017 film I'm Drunk, I Love You, and the province began to be referred to by the colloquial initialism “ElYu.”

Among Philippines literary circles, the town of Bauang has also become a pilgrimage site of sorts for celebrating the life of and works of writer and World War II martyr Manuel Arguilla, with writers visiting the author's hometown to experience the landscapes that inspired him, and which featured prominently in his stories. The most prominent event celebrating Arguilla was the 2017 run of the Taboan Literary Festival, a celebration of Philippine literature which changes venues every year, organized by the National Commission on Culture and the Arts during every National Arts Month in February. Among the prominent artists who spoke about Arguilla at the festival were writer-academic Butch Dalisay and National Artist of the Philippines for literature Bienvenido Lumbera.

Geography

Baroro River Basin, San Gabriel

Aringay River, Aringay

La Union, located in the southwestern part of the Ilocos Region, is bordered to the north and northeast by Ilocos Sur, to the south by Pangasinan, to the east by Benguet, and to the west by the Lingayen Gulf and South China Sea. Geographically, it lies 273 kilometers north of Metro Manila and 57 kilometers northwest of Baguio City. Among the provinces in the Ilocos Region, La Union is the smallest in terms of land area, covering 149,309 hectares, which constitutes 11.60% of the region's total land area and about 0.5% of the entire country. The province is divided into two districts. District I, comprising 70,069 hectares (46.93% of the province's land area), includes San Gabriel, the largest municipality, with 15,500 hectares, followed by the City of San Fernando with 10,688 hectares, while Luna is the smallest. District II covers 79,240 hectares (53.07% of the province), with Bagulin having the largest area, followed by Aringay, while Santo Tomas occupies the least space.

Topography

Mt. Kimmallugong in Caba

Marchland in Agoo

La Union's terrain is predominantly hilly, gradually rising eastward from its coastal plains. This landscape is shaped by coral alluvium (sand and clay) deposited by flowing water. The province’s coastal plains are narrowest in the south, near Damortis in Santo Tomas, and widest in the north, near Balaoan, where they extend up to 15 kilometers inland from the sea. The eastern part of the province is predominantly mountainous, though the elevations are lower compared to the nearby Cordillera Mountain Range in Benguet and Mountain Province. The highest peak is in Bagulin, at 1,200 feet, with additional elevated areas in San Gabriel and Burgos.

Balili River Rock Formation, Naguilian

Sea Cliff, San Fernando City

Land use in La Union is varied. Forests and wooded areas cover 41,240 hectares (27.62%), enhancing its biodiversity. Agriculture dominates, occupying 54,701 hectares (36.64%), while grasslands and shrublands account for 22,834 hectares (15.29%). Urban development takes up 15,555 hectares (10.42%), alongside 14,788 hectares (3.30%) of bare land, and 191 hectares (0.13%) are classified as wetlands.

Several major rivers run through the province, including the Amburayan River, which stretches along the boundary between La Union and Ilocos Sur, as well as the Baroro River, Naguilian River, Aringay River, and Bued River. La Union also has an abundance of creeks, lakes, and streams.

Tapuacan River, Pugo

Damortis Beach, Sto. Tomas

Terrains along Balili River, Bagulin

Climate

According to PAGASA, La Union experiences a Type I climate, with a rainy season that typically begins in May and lasts until October, followed by a dry season from November to April. The heaviest rainfall occurs from June to September. La Union is also affected by tropical cyclones, with 85 such weather systems recorded between 1948 and 2009, including one super typhoon. These storms, which occur most frequently from July to October, have adverse effects on tourism, agriculture, and infrastructure. During strong typhoons, businesses often close, power outages are common, transportation becomes limited, and crops suffer damage, reducing agricultural production.

Administrative Divisions

La Union comprises 19 municipalities and 1 component city, all of which are organized into two legislative districts. The First Congressional District consists of 8 municipalities and 1 city, while the Second Congressional District consists of 11 municipalities.

Political map of La Union

•  †  Provincial capital and component city
•   Municipality

City or municipality		District	Population			±% p.a.	Area		Density		Barangay	Coordinates[A]
			(2020)		(2015)		km2	sq mi	/km2	/sq mi
Agoo		2nd	8.0%	66,028	63,692	0.69%	52.84	20.40	1,200	3,100	49	16°19′20″N 120°21′58″E
Aringay		2nd	6.1%	50,380	47,458	1.14%	84.54	32.64	600	1,600	24	16°23′45″N 120°21′19″E
Bacnotan		1st	5.4%	44,388	42,078	1.02%	78.18	30.19	570	1,500	47	16°43′18″N 120°20′59″E
Bagulin		2nd	1.8%	14,428	13,456	1.34%	107.33	41.44	130	340	10	16°36′27″N 120°26′15″E
Balaoan		1st	4.9%	40,339	39,188	0.55%	68.70	26.53	590	1,500	36	16°49′15″N 120°24′09″E
Bangar		1st	4.6%	38,041	35,947	1.08%	37.36	14.42	1,000	2,600	33	16°53′37″N 120°25′22″E
Bauang		2nd	9.5%	78,449	75,032	0.85%	73.15	28.24	1,100	2,800	39	16°31′35″N 120°19′45″E
Burgos		2nd	1.1%	9,006	8,067	2.12%	70.80	27.34	130	340	12	16°31′11″N 120°26′36″E
Caba		2nd	2.8%	23,119	22,039	0.92%	46.31	17.88	500	1,300	17	16°25′52″N 120°20′38″E
Luna		1st	4.5%	37,318	35,802	0.79%	42.90	16.56	870	2,300	40	16°51′10″N 120°22′35″E
Naguilian		2nd	6.3%	52,189	54,221	−0.72%	104.60	40.39	500	1,300	37	16°31′56″N 120°23′45″E
Pugo		2nd	2.4%	19,337	19,690	−0.34%	62.84	24.26	310	800	14	16°19′13″N 120°28′02″E
Rosario		2nd	7.3%	60,278	55,458	1.60%	73.98	28.56	810	2,100	33	16°13′46″N 120°29′16″E
San Fernando	†	1st	15.3%	125,640	121,812	0.59%	102.72	39.66	1,200	3,100	59	16°36′52″N 120°18′57″E
San Gabriel		1st	2.3%	18,943	18,172	0.79%	129.87	50.14	150	390	15	16°40′27″N 120°24′04″E
San Juan		1st	4.9%	40,507	37,188	1.64%	57.12	22.05	710	1,800	41	16°40′12″N 120°20′14″E
Santo Tomas		2nd	5.0%	40,846	39,092	0.84%	64.00	24.71	640	1,700	24	16°17′04″N 120°23′19″E
Santol		1st	1.7%	14,166	12,476	2.45%	93.70	36.18	150	390	11	16°46′22″N 120°27′35″E
Sudipen		1st	2.1%	17,187	17,056	0.15%	97.59	37.68	180	470	17	16°54′27″N 120°27′52″E
Tubao		2nd	3.9%	31,763	28,729	1.93%	50.75	19.59	630	1,600	18	16°20′49″N 120°24′45″E
Total				822,352	786,653	0.85%	1,499.28	578.88	550	1,400	576	(see GeoGroup box)
^ Coordinates mark the city/town center, and are sortable by latitude.

Barangays

Further information: List of barangays in La Union

La Union consists of 576 barangays, which are spread across its 19 municipalities and 1 city. According to the 2020 census, the barangay with the highest population is Sevilla, located in the City of San Fernando, boasting a population of 11,316. When cities are not taken into account, Central East (Poblacion) in the municipality of Bauang ranks as the most populous barangay, with 4,249 residents. In contrast, Caggao in Bangar has the smallest population, totaling just 192 inhabitants.

Demographics

According to the 2020 census by the Philippine Statistics Authority, La Union had a population of 822,352, with a population density of 550 people per square kilometer (1,400 per square mile). The household population was nearly evenly split, with 50.6% male (414.86 thousand) and 49.4% female (405.48 thousand). In terms of age distribution, 26.3% of the population were young dependents (under 15 years old), 66.1% were of working age (15 to 64 years), and 7.6% were elderly (65 years and above).

Population census of La Union

Year Pop. ±% p.a. 1903 137,847 —     1918 178,400 +1.73% 1939 207,701 +0.73% 1948 237,340 +1.49% 1960 293,330 +1.78%	Year Pop. ±% p.a. 1970 373,682 +2.45% 1975 414,635 +2.11% 1980 452,578 +1.77% 1990 548,742 +1.95% 1995 597,442 +1.61%	Year Pop. ±% p.a. 2000 657,945 +2.09% 2007 720,972 +1.27% 2010 741,906 +1.05% 2015 786,653 +1.12% 2020 822,352 +0.88%
Source: Philippine Statistics Authority

Males slightly outnumbered females in younger age groups, making up 85.5% of those aged 0 to 54, while females accounted for 82.2%. Among the elderly (55 years and older), however, females surpassed males, constituting 17.8%, compared to 14.5% for males. This shift reflects a higher life expectancy or lower mortality rate for women in La Union. The overall sex ratio was 102 males for every 100 females, with notable variations by age: 108 males per 100 females in the under-15 group, 105 males per 100 females in the working-age population, and 70 males per 100 females among those 65 and older. The median age of the population was 28.5 years, with senior citizens (60 and older) comprising 11.5% of the total population, 56.4% of whom were women. These statistics reflect a young and primarily working-age population, with a notable rise in the elderly segment. Additionally, La Union boasted the longest life expectancy in the country as of 2012, at 78.3 years.

In the first quarter of 2022, La Union registered 1,697 deaths. The City of San Fernando recorded the highest number with 581 deaths (34.24% of the total), followed by Agoo (171 deaths or 10.08%), Bauang (115 deaths or 6.78%), Balaoan (94 deaths or 5.54%), and Naguilian (86 deaths or 5.07%). The lowest death tolls were recorded in Burgos (16 deaths or 0.78%), Bagulin (21 deaths or 0.64%), and Santol (26 deaths or 1.49%). Males accounted for 56.16% of the total deaths, while females made up 43.84%, resulting in a ratio of 128 male deaths per 100 female deaths.

Christopher Parish Church, Bangar

Ma-Cho Taoist Temple, San Fernando City

Iglesia ni Cristo Church, Aringay

Black Nazarene devotees, Naguilian

Religiously, the 2020 census for Religious Affiliation in llocos Region shows that La Union's household population was predominantly Christian, with Roman Catholics comprising 16.0% of the population (695,867 people). Iglesia ni Cristo had 23,374 members, Islam had 1,932 adherents (15.49%), and Buddhism accounted for 24.96%.

Culturally, according to a 2020 report by the Philippine Statistics Authority, La Union is predominantly home to the Ilocano ethnic group, with a population of 673,312. In the southwestern part of the province, there are 10,319 Pangasinan people. Indigenous communities, such as the Kankanaey (42,552), Bago (24,757), and Ibaloi (9,107), reside in the mountainous areas of Sudipen, Santol, San Gabriel, Bacnotan, Tubao, Pugo, Bagulin, and Burgos. In Bagulin alone, 85% of the population (11,539 individuals) belong to indigenous groups. These groups have faced displacement, including eviction from the Mount Shontoug area in Pugo during the construction of the Marcos bust. Other ethnic groups include 23,518 Tagalog people; 10,025 Bisaya/Binisaya people and others, contributing to the province's cultural diversity. In September 2012, La Union officially recognized Ilocano (Iloco) as its provincial language, alongside the national languages, Filipino and English.

Language

Iloco or Iloko is the main language of La Union. Iloco is recognized as the official language of La Union since 2012. Pangasinan is spoken in the southern part of the province near the border with Pangasinan. Whilst Kankanaey and Ibaloi are spoken by the Igorot people dwelling among the highlands of La Union.

Economy

Poverty incidence of La Union

5 10 15 20 25 30 2006 25.99 2009 29.29 2012 18.50 2015 17.53 2018 4.43 2021 6.60 Source: Philippine Statistics Authority

La Union’s economy is driven by three primary sectors: agriculture, industry, and services. The service sector plays a dominant role, comprising 81.28% of all business establishments, while industry contributes 17.21% and agriculture makes up 1.51%. In 2022, La Union emerged as the second fastest-growing economy in the Ilocos Region, with a growth rate of 7.7%. According to preliminary estimates from the 2019 Provincial Human Development Index by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), La Union scored 0.76, indicating a high level of development. The province’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2022 was valued at ₱118.60 billion, representing an 18.1% share of the region’s total economy. La Union ranked second in terms of per capita GDP, which was recorded at ₱140,840 and ₱124,580 over two different measures. However, the 2021 data from the PSA showed an increase in poverty incidence, with 13.90% of the population and 10.70% of families living below the poverty line, up from 5.20% and 3.70% in 2018, respectively.

Industries and Products

Poro Point Freeport Zone in the City of San Fernando, La Union

San Fernando Domestic Airport

La Union boasts a well-rounded economy, blending agriculture, industry, and services. The Poro Point Freeport Zone or the Port of San Fernando serves as an active shipping hub, while the San Fernando Airport former Wallace Air Station has been transformed into a business and industrial area to support commercial activities.

Basi wine Naguilians' One Town, One Product

Tiger grass used in making soft brooms, Bagulin

In line with the One Town, One Product (OTOP) initiative, La Union’s local government actively promotes entrepreneurship and job creation and supports micro to medium enterprises by identifying and developing products that capitalize on the province's rich raw materials. Major products from La Union include handwoven blankets (Inabel), soft brooms (buyboy), baskets, pottery, rice wine (tapuey), sugarcane wine (basi), sugarcane vinegar (sukang Iloco), woodcraft, bamboo craft, native rice cakes (kankanen), antique-finish furniture, tobacco, coconuts, sea urchins, malunggay, and pebble stones.

Tobacco farmer, Caba

Fisherfolks in Agoo

Additionally, the province produces rice-based products from Agoo, honey (diro) and mushrooms from Bacnotan, as well as grapes and guapple from Bauang. Other notable offerings include yellow corn from San Juan, green corn from Tubao, highland vegetables and tiger grass from Santol and San Gabriel, dried fish from Sto. Tomas, milkfish (bangus) from Aringay, sea urchin from Balaoan, pebble stones from Luna, bamboo crafts from Caba, and home furnishings and wood carvings from Pugo and Rosario. The province is also known for the paintings and sculptures created by local artists.

Rice Terraces, Bagulin

Vineyard Farm, Caba

Tobacco field in La Union is home to a variety of multinational industries, contributing to its economic growth by focusing on financial statements, sales and marketing strategies, competitive analysis, and firmographic insights. These industries include prominent players such as Universal Leaf Inc., HOLCIM Cement Inc., and Shell Liquefied Petroleum Filling Station. Additionally, Bauang Private Power Plant Corporation, Pepsi Cola Plant, Fortune Tobacco Corporation, and Amianan Motors play key roles in the region. Other notable firms include Coca Cola Plant, Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corporation, Poro Point Industrial Corporation, Steel Corporation, and major depots like Petron, Caltex, and Shell. La Union also supports specialized industries like Soil Tech Agricultural Products Filipino and B-Meg Satellite Plant, which further diversify the province's industrial landscape.

Tourism

Grape Farm in Bauang

Centennial Tunnel, Aringay

La Union is positioning itself as the Heart of Agri-Tourism in Northern Luzon by 2025. The expansion of innovative agricultural practices has boosted the province’s tourism sector, with many farms transforming their sites into destinations that offer various activities for visitors. In 2022, the province welcomed 494,387 tourists, a figure that increased to 550,359 in 2023, generating over ₱1 billion in tourism receipts. During the first half of 2024, La Union attracted 237,868 overnight visitors, with an average length of stay of 1.37 days, bringing in an estimated ₱462,210,706.59 in tourism revenue. These numbers underline the significance of tourism to La Union's economy, with strong visitor arrivals and considerable financial contributions.

Surftown, San Juan

Immuki Island, Balaoan

The top three tourist destinations in 2023 were San Juan, which attracted 215,645 visitors, Bauang with 100,762 visitors, and San Fernando City, with 97,726 visitors. These destinations highlight the province’s appeal as a tourism hub, contributing both to the local economy and to La Union’s growing reputation as a premier destination in Northern Luzon.

Culture

Ilocano merchants in the mid-19th century

La Union's culture is a rich and diverse tapestry, deeply rooted in its history, geography, and the influences of its people. It is a unique blend of Ilocano traditions, contributions from the Igorot tribes of the highlands, and centuries of colonization and foreign interactions. This confluence of influences has shaped the province’s distinct cultural identity.

The province is renowned for its traditional industries, including weaving, pottery, and wine-making, as well as its vibrant and colorful fiestas, which are essential aspects of its cultural expression. With a population that is predominantly Ilocano (93%) and overwhelmingly Roman Catholic, La Union's customs and practices are strongly anchored in Ilocano heritage. Over time, however, these traditions have evolved through interactions with neighboring Pangasinan communities in the south, the Igorot tribes particularly the Ibaloi, Kankanaey, and Bag-o in the Cordilleran foothills, and the Chinese communities within its urban centers.

La Union’s contributions to Philippine arts and culture are significant, as it is the birthplace of prominent national figures such as writer and World War II hero Manuel Arguilla and National Artist for Music, Lucrecia Kasilag. Their legacy further highlights the cultural richness and artistic heritage of the province.

Abel weaving (Panagabel)

Abel Weaver

The municipality of Bangar is known for its local loom-weaving industry, which produces the Abel Iloko cloth, a traditional Ilocano fabric that the town has been producing for centuries. Abel is the Ilocano word for weave, and inabel refers to any type of woven fabric. However, in the world of weaving, inabel is specifically used to refer to textiles that are distinctly Ilocano in origin.

Basi winemaking

The tradition of making basi is still prevalent and relevant in the municipality of Naguilian, where it has been practiced for centuries. Basi is a fermented alcoholic beverage made from unas (sugarcane) that, if fermented for a longer time period, turns into sukang Iloco. Basi is the "One Town, One Product" of Naguilian, and the Basi Festival is held annually. Unlike in Ilocos and Pangasinan, the method of making basi in Naguilian is distinct. The Naguilian method entails the preparation of bubod or starter, as well as the 24-hour binubudan (steamed rice plus starter), boiling sugarcane juice, and additives such as one-year-old duhat bark, tangal bark, and green guava leaves.

Even before the arrival of the Spaniards, drinking basi was an important part of Ilocano culture, from marriage to childbirth to death. It is a part of their rituals, traditions, and daily life. That is why, on September 16, 1807, the Basi Revolt, which lasted 13 days in Piddig, Ilocos Norte, occurred when the Spanish rulers effectively prohibited private production of basi wine. The series of unrest also led the colonial government to divide the province into the now Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur.

Festivals (Fiestas)

Basi Festival float made from sugarcane stalk

Festivals in the Philippines are vibrant, large, and celebrated with a lot of pomp and show. Every month and every city has its own vibrancy bursting forth from their festivals for at least a week, if not more. Each town in La Union has its own fiesta, and the people of La Union have a strong celebration game. Aside from that, there are several other special festivals held throughout La Union each year:

• Pindangan Festival - A festival that commemorates the founding anniversary of San Fernando as a city, which was ratified in a plebiscite on March 20, 1998. Pindangan is an Ilocano term for a location "where meat is sun-dried". The area was named "Pindangan" because the locals used to make a lot of sun-dried meat (with salt) to preserve it.
• Sillag Festival - Summer festival in La Union, Sillag Poro Point Festival of Lights. Sillag is an Ilocano word meaning "moonbeam" or "illumination" from the Moon. The festival was anchored on that theme of lights, with various activities kicking of as soon as the sun goes down at Poro Point.
• Diro Festival - "Diro" is an Ilocano word for "honey" that represents unity and oneness for Bacnoteñans. It is also "One Town, One Product" of Bacnotan under the DTI program. Officers and staff from the Head Office and the Bacnotan branch participated in the float parade and distributed giveaways to the residents.
• Dinengdeng Festival - The Dinengdeng Festival is the official festivity event of the municipality of Agoo. It is held annually in summer in celebration of a dish by which its name is derived from. Dinengdeng is the Ilocano term for any vegetable-simmered dish. Usually cooked in a banga, a local term for a cooking clay pot being used by the descendants of the local settlers in the ancient times.
• Tinungbo Festival - An annual celebration in the town of Pugo. The Tinungbo festival took its name from the local dialect tinungbo, which is an indigenous way of cooking rice and fresh water and other local delicacies light young bamboo internode, locally called as tubong, grilled over charcoal or low fire.
• Timpuyog Festival - A festival celebrated at the town of Caba, shat showcases its One Town product bamboo crafts. Timpuyog is an Ilocano word for "unity, teamwork, cooperation" or "solidarity".
• Baggak Festival - Every month of January, the town of Bauang comes alive to stage this colorful festival. Typically baggak means "morning star" in Ilocano and stands for the dawning of a new day. During this event, it portrays the Ilocano spirit of unity and diversity of culture.
• Daing Festival - The town of Santo Tomas is known for its Damortis dried fish (daing stalls along the national highway) local trade, and exports. Daing Festival is held every April 20, followed by the annual town Fiesta every April 24 and 25.
• Basi Festival - Held every third week of February in the town of Naguilian to celebrate the basi traditional wine made from sugarcane which is its namesake. The festival mainly promotes Basi as a local product and the usual activities include street dancing, sport events, agri-trade fair & other amusement games.
• La Union Foundation Anniversary Celebrations - Held around March, festivity for the La Union Foundation Anniversary celebrates the formation of the province in 1850. One of its highlights is the Miss La Union or Mutia ti La Union contest.

In its 174th Foundation Anniversary, Governor Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David, a licensed pilot, on March 2–3, 204, led the Second La Union Hot Air Balloon Show at Poro Point bay-walk in San Fernando, La Union. Other activities include La Union Static Display and the La Union Car Show will and drift show.

Provincial Government and Politics

La Union Provincial Capitol

Legislative Building

Bulwagan ng Katarungan (Regional Trial Courts, in San Fernando

Just as the national government, La Union provincial government is divided into three branches: executive, legislative, and judiciary. The judicial branch is administered solely by the Supreme Court of the Philippines. The LGUs have control of the executive and legislative branches.

The executive branch is composed of the governor for the provinces, the mayor for the cities and municipalities, and the barangay captain for the barangays.

The legislative branch is composed of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (provincial assembly) for the provinces, Sangguniang Panlungsod (city assembly) for the cities, Sangguniang Bayan (town assembly) for the municipalities, Sangguniang Barangay (barangay council), and the Sangguniang Kabataan for the youth sector.

The seat of government is vested upon the mayor and other elected officers who hold office at the City Hall of San Fernando. The Sangguniang Bayan is the center of legislation, stationed in the Speaker Pro-Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Building, the Legislative Building at the back of the Capitol.

Elected Officials

La Union is governed by Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David, the chief executive, her vice governor, Mario Ortega, and 13 board members.

Governors

Main article: Governor of La Union

Court System

The Supreme Court of the Philippines recognizes La Union (inter alia) regional trial courts and metropolitan or municipal trial courts within the province and towns that have an overall jurisdiction in the populace of the province and towns, respectively.

Batas Pambansa Blg. 129, "The Judiciary Reorganization Act of 1980", as amended, created Regional, Metropolitan, Municipal Trial and Circuit Courts. The Third Judicial Region includes RTCs in La Union xxx Sec. 14. Regional Trial Courts. (a) Fifty-seven Regional Trial Judges shall be commissioned for the First Judicial Region. Nine branches (Branches XXVI to XXXIV) for the province of La Union, Branches XXVI to XXX with seats at San Fernando, Branches XXXI and XXXII at Agoo, Branch XXXIII at Bauang, and Branch XXXIV at Balaoan;

The law also created Metropolitan Trial Courts in each metropolitan area established by law, a Municipal Trial Court in each of the other cities or municipalities, and a Municipal Circuit Trial Court in each circuit comprising such cities and/or municipalities as are grouped together pursuant to law: three branches for Cabanatuan City; in every city which does not form part of a metropolitan area, there is also a Municipal Trial Court with one branch, except as provided: Two branches for San Fernando, La Union;

The courts of law are stationed in Halls of Justices of the Province and towns. In La Union, the Regional Trial Court is stationed at the Bulwagan ng Katarungan or Halls of Justice in San Fernando, La Union and other Regional Trial Courts in Bauang and Agoo, La Union.

Education

La Union is home to a diverse and robust education system, offering a wide range of learning opportunities to its residents. The province boasts 333 public elementary schools and 56 private elementary schools, providing foundational education across its communities. For secondary education, there are 79 public high schools and 51 private secondary schools, ensuring access to both public and private options. Higher education in La Union is also well-represented, with 20 colleges and 5 state universities that cater to various academic interests and professional aspirations.

DMMMSU-Mid La Union Campus

Saint Louis College, La Union

DMMMSU-South La Union Campus

Colleges:

• Saint Louis College La Union
• Union Christian College
• AMA Computer College – La Union Campus
• LORMA Colleges
• CICOSAT Colleges
• Northern Philippines College for Maritime Science and Technology
• STI College La Union
• Saint John Bosco College of Northern Luzon
• Sea and Sky Colleges
• La Finn's Scholastica
• Sta. Veronica Colleges
• South Ilocandia College of Arts and Technology
• La Union College of Science and Technology
• La Union Christian Comprehensive College
• Agoo Computer Colleges
• Polytechnic College of La Union
• Philippine Central College of Arts, Science and Technology

Universities:

• Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University-MID La Union Campus (MLUC)
• Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University-North La Union Campus Don (NLUC)
• Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University-South La Union Campus (SLUC)
• Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University-Open Uviversity

Notable people

Leaders and Politicians

• Diego Silang (December 16, 1730 – May 28, 1763) – Filipino Revolutionary
• Anacleto Diaz (1878–1945) – 31st Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines
• Magnolia Antonino (1915–2010) – former Senator of the Philippines
• Manuel Arguilla (1911–1944) – writer, patriot, and martyr
• Jose D. Aspiras – 1st Secretary of the Department of Tourism and former congressman
• Fortunato Abat (1925–2018) – 20th Secretary of the Department of National Defense (DND), Ambassador to the People's Republic of China, and Commanding General of the Philippine Army.
• Armando "Mandrake" Ducusin Palabay (1953–1974) - Filipino student leader and activist from San Fernando La Union, honored at the Philippines' Bantayog ng mga Bayani as a martyr of the resistance against the Marcos dictatorship.
• Clare R. Baltazar (1927-2024) – National Scientist of the Philippines for Systematic Entomology
• Rolando Joselito Bautista – retired Filipino lieutenant general and 26th Secretary of Social Welfare and Development
• Rafael Buenaventura – Governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
• Samuel Gaerlan – 187th Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines
• Mario Lopez — 185th Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines
• Antonio Mabutas – Agoo-born first bishop of Diocese of Laoag and the second Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Davao, historically noted as the first Roman Catholic Archbishop to write a pastoral letter to criticize human rights violations under the Marcos dictatorship.
• Camilo Osias (1889–1976) – Filipino politician, 6th and 8th President of the Senate of the Philippines.
• Doña Laureana Novicio Luna y Ancheta (July 4, 1836 – August 18, 1906) — Mother of Antonio Luna and Juan Luna.
• Wenceslao Padilla – Filipino Scheut priest who from 2 August 2003 was the Apostolic prefect of the Apostolic Prefecture of Ulaanbaatar, a diocese of the Roman Catholic Church in Mongolia.

National Artists

• Lucrecia Roces Kasilag (1918 2008) – National Artist of the Philippines for Music
• Bienvenido Nebres (born 1940) – academic, National Scientist of the Philippines for Mathematics, former Provincial Superior of the Society of Jesus in the Philippines
• Jessica Soho — Multi-awarded (Asia Journalist of All Times, Peabody Award) Filipina broadcast journalist dubbed as the Asia's Powerhouse Journalist and known as the host of the news magazine program Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho on GMA Network and formerly anchored the newscast State of the Nation with Jessica Soho on GMA News TV.

Actors

• Vice Ganda – Singer, actor, comedian and host. from San Juan, La Union.
• Edward Barber — Filipino-British actor and host who came to prominence in 2016 Pinoy Big Brother: Lucky 7, 4th placed. from Aringay, La Union.
• Gloria Diaz (born 1951) – Miss Philippines 1969, Miss Universe 1969, Actress, from Aringay, La Union.
• Carina Cariño — Miss Millennial 2017 1st Runner up, Binibining Pilipinas La Union. from Agoo, La Union.
• Coleen Garcia — is a Filipino actress, host, and model from the City of San Fernando, La Union.
• JB Magsaysay (born 1980) – Pinoy Big Brother (season 1) housemate; actor, public servant, and businessman. from San Juan, La Union.
• Cheska Garcia Kramer — is a Filipino actress and model from Bauang, La Union
• Ashley Ortega — is a Filipino-German actress well known for her roles in Dormitoryo and My Destiny on GMA Network. She is formerly a co-host of the variety show Wowowin. from the City of San Fernando, La Union.

Athletes

• Carlo Biado (born 1983) — Filipino Athlete and professional pool player “2021 US Open Pool Grand Champion”. from Rosario, La Union.
• Roger Casugay — Filipino surfer who competed for the Philippines at the 2019 Southeast Asian Games gold medalist. He is the first Filipino to receive the Pierre de Coubertin Act of Fair Play Award of the International Fair Play Committee in recognition of saving a competitor in longboard semifinals of the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. from the City of San Fernando, La Union.
• José B. Nísperos (1887–1922) First Asian and Filipino to win US Medal of Honor

External links

• Media related to La Union at Wikimedia Commons
• Geographic data related to La Union at OpenStreetMap
• Official Website of the Provincial Government of La Union
• Philippine Standard Geographic Code