La union: Aside from surfing, beach parties, and the overall La Union (colloquially called Elyu) vibe, the province also has its raw, serene, culture-grounded, and community-driven agri and eco-tourism sites in its southern part.
According to Philippines News Agency, the circuit was introduced to 60 media practitioners and content creators from Baguio City, Pangasinan, and La Union during the 'Media Agkaysa Ronda for Information Optimization' from November 26 to 27 by the provincial government of La Union and local government units. Mary Joy Castillo, a media affairs officer, highlighted the initiative to promote the 'ridge to reef' project of Governor Mario Eduardo Ortega, showcasing the lesser-known attractions in La Union.
In the mountainous town of Burgos, visitors can explore Libtong Lake, originally named Imelda Lake. Barangay Libtong is working to change its name officially. The lake offers a natural charm with opportunities for fishing and bamboo raft cruises. Edwin Moya, the barangay captain, emphasized the area's safety and the mystical stories surrounding the lake that locals share with visitors.
Bagulin features Kudal Park, a foggy and cold nature conservation area offering breathtaking views of the West Philippine Sea and surrounding regions. Visitors can enjoy Baguionas Coffee and local delicacies like Bagulin Suman. Jennifer Guilanda, an agricultural technologist, noted the coffee farmers' annual production of 1,000 kilos of coffee beans.
Naguilian's Tourist Rest Area, a collaborative project with the Department of Tourism, provides amenities and showcases local products like Bacagan Bamboo handicrafts and Magungunay Labtang baskets. The town is renowned for its traditional Basi, a sugarcane wine, and emerging lemon products from the L and D Citrus Farm.
In Bauang, a 152-hectare mangrove eco-tourism park highlights the importance of preserving natural environments. Doris Marie Bambao, an environmental management specialist, explained the mangroves' role in biodiversity and storm-surge protection. The park charges an environmental fee, with proceeds supporting the local community.
Caba is recognized for its bamboo furniture products and 'Cabalicious' offerings like pickled papaya and vegetable chips. Tubao's Halog West Producers Cooperative produces chichacorn, a crunchy white corn snack, providing an additional income source for its members, as shared by Vanessa Mapalo, the cooperative's secretary.
Pugo's TonyBeth Mushroom Farm attracts business-minded tourists interested in mushroom cultivation. Tony Loredo, the farm's owner, offers tours and lectures on growing mushrooms. Rosario's West Croft Farm and Garden captivates plant enthusiasts with its diverse plant species and plans for future development.
Agoo is developing 'Tapao' in Barangay Macalva Norte, offering scenic views and local delicacies like cocopie. Mayor Frank Sibuma and board member Alyssa Kristine Sibuma discussed plans to enhance the area for tourism.
Santo Tomas features the Holy Family Chapel surrounded by fishponds, with aquaculture as a primary livelihood. The Sanglad Festival, a fluvial procession, is a key annual event celebrating local culture.
Vice Gov. Eric Sibuma expressed hopes of boosting tourism and one-town-one-product sales through cooperation among officials and local government units. Gov. Mario Eduardo Ortega emphasized the importance of media partnerships in promoting new attractions and transparency in governance.
