Showing posts with label Philippine Tourists destination. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Philippine Tourists destination. Show all posts

Saturday, April 10, 2010

Philippines, Pearl of the Orient Seas



Etravel Pilipinas is your guide to your vacation getaway to the top tourist destination here in the Philippines. You will find comprehensive travel information and Philippine travel guide about traveling to the Philippines, first class hotel and accommodation, adventure travel Philippines, natural and man-made tourist attraction, breathtaking natural landscapes, magnificent diving sites and world-class beach resorts with lots of fun, excitement and total relaxation.

Philippines is the Land of Freedom and Beauty. It is a country, which has its own origin, history and culture. Its identity has been rooted from the heritage of its forefathers. Each and every Filipino citizen should value the legacy of a glorious past, the greatness of its race and the character and traits that are distinctly Filipino.


Boracay White Sand Beach ResortTravel to Philippines and discover the wonders of the country. Come across the beautiful world-class white sand beach resorts like Boracay and Panglao. Visit the well-known and enchanting diving spots in Palawan, Bohol, Cebu, Puerto Galera, Subic and Coron Bay. Uncover the captivating view of the volcanoes in Taal, Albay and Negros and mountains like Baguio where travel adventure seekers want to go. Explore the hundreds of scenic tourist destinations that Philippines can offer. Philippines is one of the destinations in Asia that foreigners want to spend their vacation holidays. Because of the tropical settings that the Island Philippines is located, people around the world want to experience the enchanting and romantic moment living in the paradise. Etravel Pilipinas will give you an overview to the Philippine travel directions, travel guide, travel accommodations and travel tips in the Philippines.


Bacolod Massara FestivalWitness the amazing Philippine festivals and events that Filipinos are celebrating. Philippines celebrate hundreds of colorful and electrifying festivals all year round. Every City and Town celebrates different festivals or fiesta in different dates and different culture and tradition. There are many festivals in the Philippines. Join us in celebrating the Philippine festivals and experience these exciting events that captivates the unifying power of the festive spirit. Sinulog in Cebu, Masskara in Bacolod, Ati-atihan in Kalibo and Moriones in Marinduque are one of those popular festivals in the Philippines. Street dancing is one the most popular event in the festival in which is also the highlight of the festivities. Different group competes in each other wearing colorful costumes with those electrifying dance moves.


Travel to Philippines and experience the richness of culture, history and heritage. These are among the tourist attractions that the country is offering to business and leisure tourist travelers. Tourist will experience the cultural, historical and architectural heritage when they travel around the country in their business trips or leisure adventure travel to the Philippines. Philippine culture that are handed down in generations from our ancestors. Historic events from Pre-Spanish period up to the present. Architectural designs of buildings and houses that are build since the Spanish Period that visitors want to catch a glimpsed of its beautiful structure.


Philippines people are known for its hospitality. Tourists and guest are always welcome in their homes. Filipino people are very friendly, well-educated accommodating and fun-loving. Tourist can communicate well because most of the people in the Philippine understands and can communicate in English.


The Philippines offers everything you could ever desire on a paradise getaway from strolling along sandy white beaches to fascinating scuba diving adventures. A timeshare in this region will give you the opportunity to explore the enchanting mountains and tropical warm waters year after year. Timeshares are the perfect way to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore the rich legacy of the Philippines islands. Let the luxurious and exotic appointments unfold around you as you breathe in the aroma of sampaguita, the national flower of this beautiful country. Book Philippines timeshares right now and by your next vacation you can be strolling the white sandy beaches of Boracay Island or diving Puerto Galera. Timeshare resales can be your key to a truly scrumptious vacation.

Friday, March 26, 2010

CARAMOAN, CAMARINES SUR Philippines



"The name Caramoan has been officially adapted since 1619, the year it was founded by a zealous missionary, the venerable Spanish friar Francisco De La Cruz Y Oropesa. This 60-year old priest penetrated the thick virgin forest of the Caramoan Peninsula and found a small settlement in a place called Baluarte. Later on, this settlement was turned over to the administration of the Holy Bishopric in 1696.

The small town of Caramoan was then located at the tip of Caramoan Peninsula, a rugged place of land extending into the waters of the Maqueda Channel on the North and East and Lagonoy Gulf on the South.

It was determined that the first name given to this place was Guta de Leche by the Dutch traders who operated a gold mine in Lahuy Island and frequented the area to trade with the natives, prior to the arrival of the Spaniards. The name was perhaps derived from the milkdrop stalagmites found among the rocks of Guta Port. But upon the arrival of the Spaniards, the place came to be called "Carahan" for the sea turtle, which was at that time to be found in great number along the shores of the Peninsula.

Caramoan is one of the thirty-five municipalities of the Province of Camarines Sur and is situated at the heart of the Caramoan Peninsula at the southernmost tip of Luzon. It occupies the lower eastern portion of the Province of Camarines Sur. It is bounded on the north by the town of Garchitorena and the Pacific Ocean; on the northeast by the island province of Catanduanes; on the south by Lagonoy Gulf; on the east by the Maqueda Channel and on the west by the municipality of Presentacion.

The municipality is situated between east longitude 124o59" and 13o46" north latitude. It covers approximately 27,741 square kilometers with approximately 71 kilometers of irregular coastline surrounded by the vast ocean, bay, seas and swamps. It is approximately 501 kilometers away from Metro Manila; 95 kilometers from the municipality of Pili, where the seat of the provincial government and the Pili Domestic Airport are located; and 110 kilometers away from Naga City, the heart of Bicol."

Monday, February 22, 2010

Tourist Attractions in Vigan Islands Philippines




"Vigan Houses: Vigan City Islands PhilippinesThe Vigan Houses
The Vigan ancestral houses were built by Chinese taipans who made fortunes out of indigo dye, abel fabrics, gold, tobacco and other export items. The massive brick and plaster houses with red tiled roofs and imposing doorways, grand staircases, broad narra floorboards and piedra china, sliding capiz windows and ventanillas and cool azotea reflect the artistic and technological craftsmanship of the 18th and 19th century native artisans who developed an architectural style adapted to the earthquake-prone tropics.

Calle Crisologo: Vigan City Islands PhilippinesCalle Crisologo
Further south of the Cathedral, one finds the stretch of Calle Mena Crisologo lined with ancestral. These houses, built by the Biguenos of Chinese ancestry engaged in trade, barter and manufacture o findigo dye, abel (woven) fabric, gold, tobacco and other goods. Being the only surviving colonial city in the country, Vigan has more than 180 ancestral houses and historical landmarks tightly strung along the narrow streets of the old Mestizo District, popularly known then as Kasanglayan (Chinese quarters).

St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral
The cathedral was build by the Augustinians 1790-1800 in distinctive "Earthquake Baroque" architecture. It has three naives , twelve altars and a choir loft. Chinese influence is evident in its baptistry altar, China-forged brass communion handrails, a pair of Fu Dogs and moldings on the facade. Most of the original church interior features and artifacts are still in place. The octagonal church belfry is located 15 meters south of the cathedral.

St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral: Vigan City Islands Philippines

Just recently, its museum Museo San Pablo was opened to public which showcases ecclesiastical artifacts and other religious crafts of the past."

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Nasugbu, Batangas, Philippines






"A 1st class municipality of the province of Batangas, Nasugbu is a short distance (about 70 kms) from the province's capital Batangas City. The municipality is accessible by tourists coming from Metro Manila, roughly 100 kilometers in distance, via Tagaytay City.

Nasugbu is located on the eastern coast of Batangas adjacent to mountains with rolling terrain and gentle slopes providing the inhabitants with rich fields which are very conducive to agriculture life. Two of the main industries of the town is farming and aquaculture. When one visits the town, fields of rice, corn, coconuts and vegetables dot the countryside.

The town has a rustic feel yet rich in historic relevance; as seen in the romanesque facade of one town church. The design is reminiscent of the time when Spanish law ruled the land. Nasugbu has something to be proud of in terms of vacation spots; some of the beaches lining Nasugbu's coastline rival those of the best beaches in the Philippines and the town's best travel destinations are found in or around these beaches including exquisite dive sites.

Here are some of these to name a few.

Coral Garden

One of the most popular divesite in Nasugbu, the site is speckled with groups of corals in varied forms and types. Sting rays are commonly seen in this area.

Pink Wall

The site is aptly named as it is abundant with pink-colored corals. Complementing the beauty of the divesite is a selection of exotic fishes in varied colors.

Awash South

As with all other divesites in the area, it splattered with corals of different shapes and sizes scattered in all directions. Fishes are in abundance and make the area alive with a spectacle of colors.

Fuego Point

This point is a horseshoe-shaped lagoon with a variety of soft corals and sponge lining every area on its bottom. It is becoming a top destination for divers because of its magnificient canyon walls, caverns and different kinds of fishing adorning the bottom of the lagoon."

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Tagaytay, Philippines




"Tagaytay City, about 60 kms south of Manila, the Philippine capital is one of the prime tourist spots in the Philippines. Up to the late 1990s, people came mainly for Tagaytay’s year-round cool climate and Taal Volcano, which, surrounded by the blue waters of Taal Lake and framed by lush mountains is quite a breathtaking vision.

There were no other sites at that time except for Picnic Grove - a picnic and horseback riding site, Palace in the Sky - abandoned mansion of deposed Philippine president Ferdinand Marcos and Halfway – a mini-zoo. Dining was confined to Mushroom Burger, Taal Vista Hotel (the only hotel in the area at that time) and hole in the wall restos offering “bulalo” (boiled beef shank with bone marrow).

In 2000 under a younger administration, Tagaytay’s tourism got a boost by welcoming new establishments and franchises.

Foremost is the exclusive Highlands in Tagaytay’s northern part where golf, cable cars and world-class dining and accommodation can be enjoyed by availing of membership starting at P600, 000.00. It is an ideal site for weddings and conventions. Less expensive alternatives are Tagaytay Convention Center, Royale Tagaytay and Phinma. Mid-priced hotels like Bed & Breakfast, Days, Hotel Dominique and Royal Parc are scattered in the area. There are plenty of budget rooms and picnic huts for less than a thousand pesos.

Transportation is never a problem as busses ply the Manila-Tagaytay route 24 hours.

For fine dining there’s Antonio’s (seats must be reserved at least a month before) located farther south on the way to Batangas City, Carlos Restorante which offers Spanish cuisine and Aurelio’s, famed for its steaks. Those who prefer native Philippine dishes like “sinigang” and “kare-kare” (variations of beef and pork preparations) have a wider selection of reasonably priced restaurants in the main road - Dencio’s, LZM, RSM, Leslie’s, and Josephine’s. In the same strip, a horseback riding facility is available in Viewsite’s ranch-inspired surroundings. Beside it is Taalena, where diners get to be serenaded by a string quartet. Fast food chains like Jollibee, McDonalds and Chowking coffee shops, pizza parlors and delicacy stores also abound.

The health conscious will enjoy Nurture Spa and Sonia’s Garden where message therapy is offered side by side with organic food.

Commerce is thriving with the presence of the country’s premiere banks, telecom companies, beauty salons and branches of government agencies. Students and employees from nearby towns flock here for the retreat houses tucked in the more inconspicuous areas of the city.

At night, the main streets are lined with multi-colored lamps. Live bands perform daily in Café Lupe, G-point, Chandler’s, Casino Filipino, among other bars and cafes.

Yet despite its modernization, Tagaytay City has managed to preserve its picturesque countryside ambiance. In fact, all establishments are prevented to erect anything that will obstruct the views. It’s a must-see spot that has a bit of something for everybody."

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Canibad Beach Resort, Philippines



"Canibad Beach Resort (at Aundanao, Samal Island) is located at the other side of Samal Island facing Davao Oriental a 20km drive from Babak proper. Another place to relax and unwind at Samal Island.

Canibad is actually a sea by the foot of the mountains. So when you get there, you will see the vastness of the sea on top of a hill while coconut trees and mountains greet you welcome to Canibad! You’ll have to go down a very steep trail before reaching the white sand and the cool blue waters of the beach. The coastline is just about two kilometers with very fine white sand, pebbles and some big pile of rocks on its edges.

It is one of the beach resorts that is less developed, so tourists and guests should not expect to see class restaurants and air-conditioned rooms. For those who want to stay overnight at the beach, it is advisable to bring a tent with you, but cottages are also available for around P200 pesos per night. Since there is no restaurants in the area, cooking your own food in designated areas is a good idea.

The people on Canibad seemed joyous as they gathered around their bonfires, drinking, eating, cajoling, and doing other forms of merrymaking by the beach or in their tents. After all, in that paradise that has escaped the usual crowd at the more accessible beaches onthe other side of Samal Island, one couldn’t help but feel free and far away, in a place that affords everyone more private space."

Saturday, January 2, 2010

Mag-aso Falls, Bohol Philippines



"The Mag-aso Falls is located in the barrio of Mag-aso in the town of Antequera, Bohol, Philippines. It is about 20 kilometers from Tagbilaran City, roughly a 30 minutes ride away. The falls is a major attraction of the town together with karst caves such as the Buhong Tiawan, Hagakgak, Inambacan, and Antequera.

Antequera is an inland town situated in the western part of Bohol and composed of 21 barangays. With good roads, the town is bounded in the west by the municipality of Calape & Loon, the municipality of San Isidro in the northeast, and the municipality of Maribojoc in the southwest; in the southeast by the municipality of Cortes and in the east by the municipality of Balilihan.

Aside from being blessed with rolling & rugged terrains interspersed with rivers, streams and brooks, the town is also known as the basket capital of Bohol. Sundays, Antequera’s market day, is the day when baskets of different sizes and shapes are displayed in the local market and traders from out of town, hailing from Cebu and far-off Manila come to buy their products for export to other countries throughout the world.
Overview

Mag-aso Falls is one of the main attractions of Bohol but rarely included in day tour itineraries since it is relatively out of the way. Situated inland, it does not lie in the pathway towards Loboc town, the Loboc river cruise, tarsier viewing, and on towards Bilar’s mahogany man-made forest and the Chocolate Hills, Bohol’s main attraction.

Travelers who have come to know about the twin falls in advance often request tour operators to include it in their itinerary but usually dole out an additional fee to cover gas consumption. Yet if you have contacts in Bohol and can get a private ride, visiting the falls will not be a problem.

The town may be so out of the way, yet travelers who make the trip find it worthwhile. Intermittent verdant rice fields with hilly backdrops are stunning to look at aside from the picturesque ancestral homes that dot the way.

For the adventuresome spirits who want to visit the falls in their own pace and time, and likewise avoiding the high prices of tour agencies, the area where the falls is located is very accessible. Buses and jeepneys ply the route to the town from Tagbilaran City. Disembarking in the town proper, tricycles and motorcycles are available to bring one to the falls."

Monday, December 28, 2009

Banaue Rice Terraces, Philippines



"Banaue Rice Terraces, which has been recently named as one of the 50 greatest travel destinations in the world, has gained another distinction on the pages of TNT, one of the top travel magazines in the United Kingdom. The premier travel and lifestyle magazine came out with a four-page, full-color article, and a front-page mention of the rice terraces.

Prior to this, the National Geographic Traveler magazine, in its October 2009 anniversary edition, included the Rice Terraces of the Cordillera in the 50 places of a lifetime, highlighting the world's greatest travel destinations. The National Geographic described the rice terraces as "masterpieces of agrarian art."

On the latest article by TNT, seasoned writer/photographer Mike Stratton featured a stunning view of the Banaue Rice Terraces, with the expanse of the green mountains. The Department of Tourism (DOT) confirmed that it hosted Stratton’s summer visit to Banaue, in cooperation with Cathay Pacific Airways and local ground handlers and suppliers"


“The Philippines is definitely a place that tourists would not forget about even after they have returned to their home countries. Our diverse attractive spots and rich culture leave lingering impressions that travel enthusiasts just couldn’t resist---so they keep coming back,” said Tourism Secretary Ace Durano.

Stratton shared that Filipinos have long regarded the over 2000-year old rice terraces as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”.

A chat with a local guide added thoughtful insight to Stratton’s article as he found out that younger locals prefer going to the cities for better-paying jobs, making the effort to preserve the Banaue rice terraces a difficult feat.

“Every country is faced with the challenge of safeguarding its natural sites. What’s important is that we are bravely addressing these concerns, and are continuously boosting community tourism through dialogues and active campaigns,” said Eduardo Jarque, Jr., Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions.

Stratton underlined Batad as the finest place to view the rice terraces, and described how Batad’s rustic way of life, its people, and its wildlife have made Banaue truly awe-inspiring.

As if bringing along the readers to the tricky path he treaded to Tappiya Falls, Stratton also engagingly described his Batad rice terraces hike survival. Beholding his destination, he wrote: “…Tappiya falls was more cappuccino than skinny latte—its powerful, foamy flow plunged 40m, thudding with real fury into a pool. At that moment I didn’t need to be told that I was experiencing one of the great natural wonders of the world. I knew it.”

Another highlight of the article was the travel guidelines provided by the author, alongside the Banaue main feature. From Filipino food choices to the best time to visit and how to get around, to the best islands to suit one’s activity fancy, and the story of the jeepney, Stratton has provided readers things they need to learn and anticipate for a visit in the Philippines. Cloud 9 in Siargao Island, Puerto Princesa in Palawan, and the Philippine jeepney were among the Philippine sights featured in photos."

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Zamboanga Philippines

"This Zamboanga sightseeing guide will give you a tour of the place known as the Little Spain in the Philippines. You’ll immediately notice the heavy mix of Spanish with the vernacular the minute you talk to any of the locals. Nowhere has there been heavier Spanish influence here in the Philippines than in Zamboanga City.

Let’s begin our Zamboanga sightseeing guide with the natural attractions you’ll find here. Zamboanga has a lot of beautiful beaches that bring in local and foreign tourists. Three of the most popular beaches here are Bolong Beach, the pink sandy coral beaches Santa Cruz Island, and ever-famous La Vista del Mar. Another interesting place to see here is Pasonanca Park, which is also known as Little Baguio. Pasonanca Park is famous for camping and a cool retreat from summer due its elevation of 500 feet above sea level.

We now move on to the man-made attractions in our Zamboanga sightseeing guide. You’ll find traces of Spanish architecture all over Zamboanga City. Some of the surviving structures you’ll find would even date back to the Spanish era. For instance Fort Pilar was built in 1635 to ward off marauders. Today it stands as a shrine that marks a historical site in the Philippines.

Zamboanga’s City Hall was built in 1905. The construction was initiated by the Spanish but was taken over by the Americans when they took over. Five minutes from the city hall is the Pettit Barracks, named after James S. Pettit, a colonel in the United States Army when they captured the city.

Another reason to visit Pasonanca Park, aside from the cool soothing temperature, is its aviary. Located seven and a half kilometers from the city proper, you’ll find various local and foreign species of birds on display. It won’t be uncommon to find families spending an afternoon here.

We’ll now look into some of the delectable highlights in our Zamboanga sightseeing guide. A tour of Zamboanga won’t be complete without sampling the delicacies that make it famous. You can visit any of the alfresco and outdoor restaurants to sample the best of Zamboanga cuisine. Much of the food served are Spanish with a local twist, which is a bit unique in this part of the Philippines. Some of the must sample dishes are pochero, callos de andalucia, and arroz valenciana.

To cap off our Zamboanga sightseeing guide we have the cultural celebrations that occur year round. Zamboanga City is famous for its cultural activities that include enchanting song and dance festivals. The city streets become one of the most colorful ones in the Philippines. The most popular festival here is the Regatta de Zamboanga. It is a festival of many colorful sailboats that highlights a race across the nearby waters.

This Zamboanga sightseeing guide highlights many of the unique features of the city. It is truly one of the peculiar places in the Philippines that deserves the title of Little Spain."

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Davao City



"Close to Davao City is Mt. Apo, the country's highest peak and home to the monkey-eating Philippine Eagle, an endagered species, and the waling-waling, a rare ochid of exceptional beauty.

BACKGROUND
Davao City is one of the most alluring gateways to the Philippines. There are two reasons which make Davao unique: its people and its warm hospitality. Within bucolic highlands, migrants from all over the country live in harmony with indigenous tribal folk.
Close to Davao City is Mt. Apo, the country's highest peak and home to the monkey-eating Philippine Eagle, an endagered species, and the waling-waling, a rare ochid of exceptional beauty.

Of late, Davao has become a booming tourist destination as evidenced by the rise of leisure establishments in the region.
Davao is also the biggest cutflower producer in the country and a major exporter of tropical fruits.
A tour of the city and its outskirts will bring the visitor to Dabaw Etnica, a tiny settlement of the Mandaya Tribe; Dabaw Museum whose diaplay includes tribal artifacts and costumes; and the Taoist and Lon Wa Buddhist Temples.
Davao is also known for its exquisite beaches, there is even an old Perl Farm that has been converted into a world-class resort. These beaches are all easily accessible by banca (out-rigger boat) or land travel."

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Barcelo Asturias Hotel





"The Barceló Asturias Hotel is conveniently situated in the city outskirts. It is located along the South National Highway, Tiniguiban Heights. Public transportation can easily be used to reach the hotel. A 55-minute plane ride or a 24-hour boat ride from Manila and a 10-minute car ride from the airport will bring you directly to the beautiful hotel. Just minutes away from the city's commercial districts, the hotel is ideally located for pure fun and relaxation. The Palawan Museum and the Palawan State University is just a short car ride away, and one can reach Honda Bay without any worries. Just a few more reasons why you should come and visit the Barceló Asturias Hotel."

Friday, November 13, 2009

Batanes Philippines



"The Batanes island group is the smallest province in the Philippines in terms of population and land area. The capital of Batanes, Basco is 280 kilometers north of Apari, Cagayan (the tip of main island of Luzon) while it is only 190 kilometers south of Taiwan. Batanes lies in the vast waters of the Pacific ocean where the Pacific meets China sea. An area that for generations is almost isolated from the rest of the Philippines. Batanes consist of 10 tiny islands and islets namely: Batan, Sabtang, Itbayat, Mavudis, Siayan, Diogo, North Island and Y'ami. Only the first three islands are inhabited.

The wind swept islands of Batanes are beautiful and enchanting and they are like no other in the Philippines. Since Batanes is separated from the country by miles of rough waters, the Ivatans (the name of the people of Batanes) have developed a different culture. Ivatans are honest, gentle and polite but brave and robust. They are proud of their their heritage and their land.

View overlooking the beach sea and mountainsThe landscape of Batanes is also distinct from other Philippine provinces - steep cliffs, rolling hills, deep canyons and boulder-lined shores - not unlike New Zealand in some way. But the most noticeable of all features of Batanes is the architecture of the houses - stone walled and thick thatched roofs to withstand the battering of typhoons.

Batanes BeachThe weather of Batanes is cool and windy. And it rains any month of the year. It has an almost temperate temperature from December to February where temperatures dip as low as 7 degrees centigrade. Although Batanes lies along the typhoon belt and gets hit by strong typhoons, it get it's fare share just like other provinces on the north. But in spite of the reputation of Batanes as a backward region, it now has modern conveniences like mobile phones (cell sites by Smart & Globe Telecoms), electricity and cable television but hardly any vehicles.

Batanes Stone House on Batan Island There are a lot of things to do and see in Batanes, swim on the many beaches, see the fishing villages, the churches and lighthouses, island hop, but best of all, it is a beautiful place to reflect and admire nature."

Friday, September 11, 2009

La Union Philippines



"La Union has predominantly hilly terrain which gradually rises eastward from the shore.The western border is a coastal plain of raised coral and alluvia (sand or clay deposited by flowing water) overlaying older sediments. East of this palin are rolling hills parallel to the coast covering a wide portion of the central area. The province has two pronounced seasons - dry from November toApril and from May to October.

HISTORY
The natives of what is now La Union were already trading with the Japanese when the Spaniards came to the Philippines, the area of Agoo was then known as "Puerto de Japon". Captain Juan de Salcedo explored the region in 1572, followed by Augustinan missionaries who founded the towns of Balaoan, Bauang, and Agoo in the late decades of the 16th century. The province was created on March 2, 1850 out of towns then belonging to Ilcos Sur and Pangasinan. Luciano Almeda headed the provincial government for a time during the Philippine Revolution while General Manuel Tinio occupied San Fernando in May 1898. After the battle in Aringay River on November 19, 1899, the American troops took controll of the province. A civil government was established in La Union in 1901. A year later, La Union ceded a narrow strip of land to Amburayan which later became a sub-province of the old Mountain Province.

The majority of the population are Ilocanos. Some Pangasinenses are found in the southern part of the province, while a substantial group of Chinese Filipinos are in San Fernando, the commercial center. Ilocano is the predominant language of the people. La Union has 20 municipalities which are subdivide into 576 barangays. The Northern towns of Sudipen, Bangar, Luna, Balaoan, Santol, San Gabriel, Baonatan, San Juan and San Fernando comprise the First District. Belonging to the Second District are Bagulin, Naguilian, Burgos, Bauang, Caba, Aringay, Agoo, Tubao, Sto. Tomas, Rosario and Pugo. San Fernando is moving forward to become a component city.

Commerce and Industy:
The main sources of livelighood are farming and fishing. The pricioal product are rice, corn tobacco, garlic, sugarcane and cassava. Grapes are extensively grown in Bauang. The rich Lingayan Gulf is the main fishing ground. Cottage industries include blanket-weaving, basketry, shellcraft, pottery and furniture-making. La Union is also well known for its basi-making industry, the Ilocano native wine mande from fermented sugarcane juice."