La Union, Philippines

List of Municipalities in the La Union province within Region I in the Republic of The Philippines
Agoo || Aringay || Bacnotan || Bagulin || Balaoan || Bangar || Bauang || Burgos || Caba || Luna || Naguilian || Pugo || Rosario || San Gabriel || San Juan || Santo Tomas || Santol || Sudipen || Tubao
Cities in the Province of La Union: San Fernando City (Capital)

Location of La Union, Philippines

La Union is a coastal province located at approximately 16.5° N latitude and 120.42° E longitude in the northwestern part of Luzon. It is part of the Ilocos Region (Region I). The province borders Ilocos Sur to the north, Benguet to the east, Pangasinan to the south, and the South China Sea to the west. Its capital and regional center is San Fernando City. La Union is about 273 kilometers north of Metro Manila and 57 kilometers northwest of Baguio City. It covers an area of approximately 1,499 square kilometers.


People of La Union, Philippines

The population of La Union was reported at 822,352 in the 2020 census, up from 786,653 in 2015. The majority of the population are Ilocano, and Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion. The province registered over 510,000 voters as of 2019, reflecting active civic participation. The people of La Union are known for their rich cultural heritage and strong community values.


Government

La Union is governed by elected officials who serve three-year terms. The most recent elections held in May 2025 resulted in the following key officials:

  • Governor: Mario Eduardo C. Ortega (re-elected)

  • Vice Governor: Eric O. Sibuma

  • Congressmen: Paolo P. Ortega V (1st District, re-elected) and Dante S. Garcia (2nd District, re-elected)

The province is composed of 1 city (San Fernando) and 19 municipalities, subdivided into 576 barangays. The provincial government focuses on economic development, infrastructure, disaster preparedness, and improving the welfare of its constituents.


Festivals Celebrated by La Union

  • WonderUnion Festival: Launched in 2025, it is a beach music, art, and culture festival held in San Juan, combining tourism promotion with local creative industries through free and ticketed events.

  • San Juan Surfing Festival: Celebrates La Union as a premier surfing destination in the Philippines.

  • Agoo Semana Santa: A traditional Holy Week celebration with deep religious significance.

  • Baggak Festival (Bauang): A week-long cultural celebration featuring music, dance, and local traditions.


Tourist Attractions in La Union

La Union is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and cultural sites including:

  • San Juan Surf Resort: Known as the surfing capital of Northern Luzon.

  • Tangadan Falls: A stunning waterfall ideal for hiking and swimming near San Gabriel.

  • Ma-Cho Temple: A striking Taoist temple located in San Fernando City.

  • Baluarte Watch Tower: Historical Spanish-era structure in Luna municipality.

  • Pindangan Ruins: Remains of an 18th-century church of historical importance.

  • La Union Botanical Garden: A lush natural park showcasing local flora.

  • Beaches in Bauang, Luna, and San Juan: Famous for vibrant nightlife, food, and water activities.

  • PUGAD (Pugo Adventure): An eco-tourism and adventure park offering family-friendly activities.

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