La Union

In the early history of La Union, the coastal plains along the northwestern part of the region, extending from Tagudin, Ilocos Sur in the north to Sudipen, Bangar, Purao (now Luna & Balaoan), and Bacnotan in the south, as well as the areas surrounding the Amburayan River, were home to the Samtoys or Ilocanos. These early settlers had a vibrant animistic culture and religion. ^[3][4]

The southern coastline, historically known as Aroo or Agoho (present-day Agoo), was part of the northern territory of Caboloan, or Pangasinan, a sovereign pre-colonial Philippine polity with vibrant culture and tradition, and shared ethnic ties with the Pangasinan people. This area included the modern coastal towns of Agoo, Aringay (formerly Alingay or Alinguey), Caba, Santo Tomas, and Rosario.^[5]

Historian William Henry Scott noted that La Union was a notable trading hub, particularly for Igorot gold and local gold. The trade route, known as the Aringay-Tonglo-Balatok path, connected southwestern Cordillera with the lowlands, establishing Aringay and Agoo as key commercial centers. This trade network linked La Union to maritime routes across the Indian Ocean and South China Sea, as well as to trade with the Tagalog, Chinese, and Japanese. Goods exchanged included porcelain, silk (abel), cotton, beeswax, honey, gemstones, beads, precious minerals, locally crafted burnáy (stoneware jars), and especially gold.^[6][7]

Artifacts like porcelain and pottery, uncovered during the renovation of the Catholic church and now housed in the Museo de Iloko, testify to this trade activity.^[8] Japanese merchants and fishermen later arrived, forming settlements along La Union’s coast actively traded with their Ilocano, and Igorot neighbors, as well as merchants from China, and Southeast Asia. The region’s natural harbors along Lingayen Gulf made it a welcoming point for foreign vessels.

In the highlands of La Union resided the Igorot people, primarily the Kankanaey and Ibaloi, who practiced headhunting as part of their warrior culture and followed animistic beliefs, worshipping nature spirits and ancestral gods. They were skilled agriculturalists and crafts, producing woven textiles, gold and metalwork, which they actively traded with their lowland Ilocano and Pangasinan neighbors. This exchange fostered a dynamic relationship between the highland and lowland communities, contributing to a rich, interconnected cultural landscape in early La Union.^[9]

A year after Adelantado 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".

In June 1572, conquistadores led by Juan de Salcedo, grandson of Miguel López de Legazpi, sailed up the Angalacan River to the Lingayen Gulf and landed in Aroo or Agoho, now known as Agoo. Upon their arrival, Salcedo's expedition encountered three Japanese ships, which they pursued to a Japanese settlement. The Spaniards demanded tribute to the Queen of Spain from both the natives and the Japanese, though some initially refused. Those who complied were permitted to remain and converted to Christianity after paying tribute. This encounter led to Agoo being referred to as "El Puerto de Japon" or the "Japanese Port," as enterprising Japanese and Chinese merchants had been trading with the local population through this port. Consequently, Agoo played a significant role in commerce with other Southeast Asian countries.

In her book “Pangasinan 1572–1800”, Rosario Mendoza-Cortes notes that La Union, particularly Agoo, served as the primary port for Japanese and Chinese traders, with Sual, Pangasinan, as its only rival. This prominence was due to the presence of a Japanese colony in Agoo. Traders at this port had access to a larger population, and its proximity to both China and Japan made it a strategic location. The principal export from the region was deer pelts, shipped to Japan. However, Agoo's importance as a port began to decline when the Spanish closed the Philippines to foreign trade. Eventually, the port was closed, prompting the Japanese to leave, but not before imparting valuable knowledge to the locals about fish farming, rice cultivation, deerskin tanning, duck breeding, and weapon production.^[10]

Furthermore, the Spanish conquistadores continued their expedition further north, encountering natives in what is now known as San Fernando City. The Spaniards demanded tribute to the Queen of Spain, but the natives requested time to go to the mountains to gather what they could offer. However, they did not return. The conquistadores then proceeded north through Atuley or Dalandan, now known as San Juan, demanding tribute from the natives, establishing Spanish rule, and converting the natives to Christianity, without further resistance until they reached a large river known as 'Purao or Puraw,' meaning 'white' in Iloco, named for the pristine appearance of the shore and river. This area is now part of Balaoan and Luna.

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 Ilocano 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.^[11]

This encounter marked the beginning of early Spanish colonization in Northern Luzon and sparked a hundred years of resistance against Spanish rule. It also led to the establishment of new religious, cultural, and administrative institutions, resulting in the formation of pueblos, rancherias to towns that later constituted the province of La Union.

Before its formation, the province was divided among the provinces of Ylocos and Pangasinan, as well as the rancherias of eastern Pais del Igorotes (Benguet). It had several barrios and pueblos headed by a cabeza de barangay, gobernadorcillo, and alcalde-mayor, most of which were established by Augustinian friars in the 16th century during the early expansion phase of Spanish rule. The civil government established under the Spanish Maura Law was probably instituted in 1700. Most of the barrio and towns were once part of an encomienda administered by Spanish insulares and Mestizos, which included several rancherias and catechumens who inhabited the Igorot mountains.

Like other towns in Ylocos, the social classes were divided into two: the babaknang or agtuturay, and the cailianes. The babaknang or agtuturay were the principalia or insulares who spoke the Castilian language, while the cailianes were the natives who spoke either Iloco, Kankanai, Ibaloi, or Pangasinan. Iloko, however, served as the province's lingua franca. ^[12]

Coastal settlements were frequently raided by tirongs or Moro pirates, who looted and burned villages while capturing women and children. In response, watchtowers called baluartes were build along the coast from Baratao (Bauang), San Vicente de Balanac / Pindangan (San Fernando), Dalandan (San Juan), Bacnotan, Purao (Balaoan) to Namacpacan (Luna). These towers served as defensive structures and lookout points, alerting local residents and authorities to impending threats from the sea. During the 18th and 19th centuries, these baluartes played a crucial role in safeguarding the coastal towns of La Union and other parts of the Philippines, protecting the people and securing vital trade routes.

During Spanish Colonization, a secret society of insurrectos was organized in Balaoan with the aim of revolting against the tyrannical abuses of the "Guardia Civil" and "Cora Parrocos”. Among its members were Luciano Resurreccion, Primo Ostrea, Artemio Ostrea, Fernando Ostrea, Patricio Lopez, Rufino Zambrano, and Mariano Peralta collectively known as the Siete Martires. These seven young men became the first Ilocanos to be executed for their revolutionary activities or for being suspected sympathizers of the movement. ^[12]

On the eve of the revolution, a traitor revealed their plans to the Spanish authorities, leading to the arrest of the seven men, who were executed without investigation. Fernando Ostrea escaped death despite sustaining a thigh wound, and his miraculous survival allowed him to inform the local population about the tragedy. Following this incident, he was pardoned by the authorities in accordance with Spanish custom. At the time of his martyrdom, Fernando was a Cabeza de Barangay and later served as the town's vice president. As a key figure in the revolution, he guided his people in their struggles against both Spain and the United States. In honor of the seven martyrs, the Siete Martires Lodge No. 177 was established as a masonic lodge.^[13][14]

La Union was formed on March 2, 1850, and became 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 llocos 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.

Governor General Claveria was a visionary administrator. He believed that combining three contiguous areas that are far from their respective provincial capitals was a viable solution to the demands of political-civil administration. He also saw the territory's agricultural and commercial growth potentials. And the kicker was the extension of Hispanic civilization and Christianity to the area. Bangar, Namacpacan (Luna) and Balaoan in the southern portion of llocos Sur was quite a distance from the cabezera of Vigan and in almost like manner, Sto. Tomas, Agoo, Aringay, Caba, Bauang, Naguilian, San Fernando, San Juan and Bacnotan were that far from Pangasinan's capital of Lingayen. The 40–45 rancherias in the depths of Central Cordillera of the Benguet (Eastern Pais del Igorotes) district bordered by the three Ilocos Sur towns and the nine of Pangasinan have even worse problems.

Thus on October 29, 1849, Governor General Claveria signed the proposal (promovido) to unite the Pangasinan-Ilocos-Cordillera areas into a new province called La Union (the official name designated by Claveria himself). 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 Maria 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 royal decree (real orden) from Madrid confirming Blanco's Superior Decreto.

By 1860, there was a dramatic progress in commerce and agriculture in the province primarily because of Tobacco. Spanish authorities banked 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 bought exclusively by the government at a fixed price.

In 1896, growing unrest in La Union arose from years of Spanish oppression, highlighted by the torture of local priests and the execution of the Balaoan Siete Martires, torture of the native priests, Padres Adriano Garces of Balaoan, Mariano Gaerlan of San Fernando and Mariano Dacanay of Bacnotan. This discontent reached its peak on May 22, 1898, when a gunshot killed the much-hated Friar Mariano Garcia of Santo Tomas a shot heard across the province, igniting the revolution in what the Spaniards once called "Una Provincia Modelo." Manuel Tinio y Bondoc, a young general allied with Emilio Aguinaldo, led the charge against the Spanish forces, ultimately driving them from La Union, although some retreated to Vigan. Following their defeat, a Revolutionary Government was established, with Aguinaldo as president and Tinio initially serving as de facto governor, later replaced by Dr. Lucino Almeida.

On July 22, Novo-Ecijano troops, bolstered to over 600 men, arrived in San Fernando after Dagupan surrendered to General Francisco Makabulos and found the city under siege by revolutionists led by General Mauro Ortiz. The Spaniards, commanded by Colonel Jose Garcia Herrero, fortified themselves in key buildings, waiting for reinforcements. Despite Tinio's attempts at peaceful negotiation, the besieged Spanish forces refused to surrender. On July 31, after days of stalemate, Tinio launched an assault, resulting in a fierce battle that ended with the Spaniards capitulating. The surrender included 400 soldiers, 8 officers, and significant military resources.

After securing San Fernando, the Tinio Brigade advanced to Balaoan, where they faced stubborn resistance from entrenched Spanish troops in the convent. Despite the local populace's support, the siege lasted five days and claimed over 70 Filipino lives. Witness Camilo Osías noted that many local katipuneros were incorporated into the Tinio Brigade after this ordeal. The rebels then moved to Bangar, successfully besieging the Spanish forces, which resulted in a decisive victory on August 7, leading to the surrender of 87 Spaniards after just four days of fighting with minimal Filipino casualties. This string of victories marked a significant chapter in La Union's contribution to the broader Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule.

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.^[15] 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.

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.^[16]

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) ^[17]

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.^[17]

Battle of Bacnotan ^[18]

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 ^[19]

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.^[20]

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.^[19]

Liberation of Bauang ^[21]

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.^[21] On January 4, 1945, La Union was liberated by the Battle of San Fernando and Bacsil Ridge.

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).

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.^[22] 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.^[23][24] 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.^[25] This allowed Stonehill's investments to make a handsome profit,^[26] and the newly-rebuilt local industry to bloom.^[23] 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,^[26] but the tobacco industry continued to grow.^[24][26]

Although economically affected by the rapid peso devaluation brought about by unbridled election spending heading into the 1969 presidential elections,^[27][28] political life in La Union was not significantly impacted by Ferdinand Marcos’ declaration of Martial Law in 1972.^[29]

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.^[29]

This technique used by Marcos to consolidate political power did not get much resistance in the Ilocos Region,^[29] including La Union, which had strong ethnic associations with the Marcos family.^[30] 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.^[30] Long-time second district congressman Manuel T. Cases had formed an alliance with Marcos^[31] along with the other strongman congressmen of the Ilocos Region,^[31] and his successor Jose D. Aspiras was also a close associate of Marcos who was made Minister of Tourism after Martial Law was declared.

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.^[32][33] 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.^[34] 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.^[35]

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,^[36][37] 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,^[36] and even doubly notable because Mabutas was considered a conservative within the Catholic church hierarchy in the Philippines.^[38]

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,^[39] the Museo de Iloko, the parish church of Aringay,^[40] and the Basilica Minore of our Lady of Charity,^[8] 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.

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.^[41] 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.^[42][43] 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.^[44]

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.^[45][46]

San Juan began to be featured prominently in independent films such as Jay Abello's 2015 film Flotsam^[47] and JP Habac's 2017 film I'm Drunk, I Love You,^[46] and the province began to be referred to by the colloquial initialism “ElYu.”^[48]

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.^[49][50] 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.^[51]

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

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.

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.

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. ^[1][1]

La Union comprises 19 municipalities and 1 component city,^[2] all of which are organized into two legislative districts.^[52]

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.^[54]

According to the 2020 census by the Philippine Statistics Authority, La Union had a population of 822,352,^[2] 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).^[56]

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.^[57]

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.^[58]

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%.^[59]

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.^[60] 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.^[61] These groups have faced displacement, including eviction from the Mount Shontoug area in Pugo during the construction of the Marcos bust.^[62] 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.^[63][64][65]

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%.^[74] 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.^[74] 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.^[75][76]

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 former Wallace Air Station has been transformed into a business and industrial area to support commercial activities.

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),^[77][78] soft brooms (buyboy),^[79] 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. 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,^[80] 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.^[81] The province is also known for the paintings and sculptures created by local artists.^[82]

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.^[83]

Tourism

La Union is positioning itself as the Heart of Agri-Tourism in Northern Luzon by 2025.^[84] 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. ^[85]

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.

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.^[86]

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.^[87] 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.^[88]

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.^[89]

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.^[90] 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 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.^[91]

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.^[92]

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.^[93]

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.^[94]

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.^[95]

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.^[96]

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.^[97]

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.^[98][99]

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.^[100]

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.^[101]

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.

La Union is governed by Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David, the chief executive, her vice governor, Mario Ortega, and 13 board members.^[102]

American period:

Japanese occupation:

• Jorge Camacho (1941–1942)
• Bonifacio Tadiar (1942–1944)

Postwar and present era:

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.^[103]

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;^[104]

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.

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. ^[105]

Colleges:

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

• Diego Silang (December 16, 1730 – May 28, 1763) – Filipino Revolutionary
• 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.
• Clare R. Baltazar (1927-2024) – National Scientist of the Philippines for Systematic Entomology
• Edward Barber — Filipino-British actor and host who came to prominence in 2016 Pinoy Big Brother: Lucky 7, 4th placed. from Aringay, La Union.
• Rolando Joselito Bautista – retired Filipino lieutenant general and 26th Secretary of Social Welfare and Development
• Carlo Biado (born 1983) — Filipino Athlete and professional pool player “2021 US Open Pool Grand Champion”. from Rosario, La Union.
• Rafael Buenaventura – Governor of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
• Carina Cariño^[106] — Miss Millennial 2017 1st Runner up, Binibining Pilipinas La Union. from Agoo, 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.
• Anacleto Diaz (1878–1945) – 31st Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines
• Gloria Diaz (born 1951) – Miss Philippines 1969, Miss Universe 1969, Actress, from Aringay, La Union.
• Samuel Gaerlan – 187th Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines
• Coleen Garcia — is a Filipino actress, host, and model. from the City of San Fernando, La Union.
• Cheska Garcia Kramer — is a Filipino actress and model. from Bauang, La Union
• Paolo Gallardo^[107] — Mister Grand International 2019 2nd Runner-up. from the City of San Fernando, La Union.
• Lucrecia Roces Kasilag (1918 2008) – National Artist of the Philippines for Music
• 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.^[36][37]
• JB Magsaysay (born 1980) – Pinoy Big Brother (season 1) housemate; actor, public servant, and businessman. from San Juan, La Union.
• José B. Nísperos (1887–1922) First Asian and Filipino to win US Medal of Honor
• Doña Laureana Novicio Luna y Ancheta^[108] (July 4, 1836 – August 18, 1906) — Mother of Antonio Luna and Juan Luna.
• Bienvenido Nebres (born 1940) – academic, National Scientist of the Philippines for Mathematics, former Provincial Superior of the Society of Jesus in the Philippines
• 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.
• Camilo Osias (1889–1976) – Filipino politician, 6th and 8th President of the Senate of the Philippines.
• 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.^[109]
• 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.^[110][111]
• 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.
• Vice Ganda – Singer, actor, comedian and host. from San Juan, La Union.

•   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