San Fernando City, La Union, Philippines

San Fernando,  La Union is within Region 1-Ilocos, in the Republic of the Philippines.

Population of San Fernando City, La Union

• As of the 2020 Census, San Fernando City had a population of 125,640 residents.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 121,812, reflecting a steady growth rate of approximately 0.6% annually.

Location of San Fernando City, La Union

• San Fernando City is located along the western coast of Luzon, facing the South China Sea. It serves as the provincial capital of La Union and the regional center of the Ilocos Region.
• Most visitors arrive via:
  • Land: Buses such as Partas, Dominion, and Viron Transit operate daily routes from Metro Manila, with travel times of 5–6 hours.
  • Air: The nearest airport is in Baguio (Loakan Airport), about 2 hours away by car. Clark International Airport is approximately 4.5 hours away.
  • Sea: The Port of San Fernando is active for cargo and limited passenger services, with access to nearby coastal towns and Mindoro.

Tourist Attractions of San Fernando City, La Union

• Ma-Cho Temple: A majestic Taoist temple overlooking the sea, built in honor of the Chinese sea goddess Mazu.
• Pindangan Ruins: Remnants of a 1764 Spanish church, offering a glimpse into colonial architecture and early settlement history.
• La Union Botanical Garden: A sprawling ecological park showcasing native flora and themed gardens.
• San Fernando Cathedral: Also known as the Cathedral of Saint William the Hermit, a historic religious site in the city center.
• The city celebrates the Ma-Cho Festival every September, blending Filipino and Chinese traditions through parades, rituals, and cultural performances.

Economy of San Fernando City, La Union

• San Fernando is the financial and industrial center of La Union, with key sectors including:
  • Retail and commerce
  • Tourism and hospitality
  • Agriculture and aquaculture
  • Port-based logistics and shipping
• In 2024, La Union’s economy expanded by 5.6%, with San Fernando contributing significantly as the province’s capital and regional hub.
• While city-level GDP is not separately published, San Fernando ranks among the top-performing component cities in Region I in terms of infrastructure, services, and investment readiness.

Educational Institutions of San Fernando City, La Union

• San Fernando hosts several major institutions:
  • Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) – Mid La Union Campus, offering programs in agriculture, education, and engineering.
  • Union Christian College – A private institution known for liberal arts, nursing, and theology.
  • AMA Computer College – La Union Campus – Specializing in IT and business programs.
  • La Union School of Arts and Trade – Offers vocational and technical training, now part of DMMMSU’s system.

History of San Fernando City, La Union

• San Fernando was founded in 1786 as a coastal settlement called Pindangan, meaning “a place for sun-drying fish”.
• It became the provincial capital of La Union in 1850 and was named after King Ferdinand III of Castile.
• The city witnessed key historical events including anti-Spanish revolts, American occupation, and World War II resistance.
• San Fernando achieved cityhood on March 20, 1998 through Republic Act No. 8509, becoming the first city in La Union.

Elected Officials of San Fernando City, La Union

• Based on the 2025 Halalan results, the city is led by:
  • Mayor: Hermenegildo A. Gualberto
  • Vice Mayor: Alfredo Pablo R. Ortega
  • Representative: Francisco Paolo P. Ortega V
• For a full list of councilors and barangay officials, visit the official election results page: San Fernando City Election Results.

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