The Province of La Union commemorated its milestone, people’s resilience, progress as it marked its 175th Founding Anniversary on March 2, 2025- a very significant celebration since its establishment as a province in 1850.
The celebration kicked-off with the Dawn Watch Prayer and Oplan Dalus Probinsya.
The Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) held a Simultaneous Flag Raising at the Provincial Capitol Grounds. Gov. Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David led the ceremony, and was attended by Provincial and Municipal Officials, PGLU department heads and employees, and civil society leaders.
“As we come together to raise our flag, we do not only honor the symbol of our independence but we also give life to the spirit of freedom and unity that we have achieved through our heroism, bravery, love, and service instilled by our ancestors,” Gov. Ortega-“This is an opportunity to once again pledge our commitment to our beloved La Union and the Philippines – a promise to fight for our rights and our freedom,” she added.
Held at the Mabanag Grounds, City of San Fernando, La Union, PGLU hosted various activities to keep the vibrant celebration alive including the Aldaw ti Kaprobinsiaan that offered various free social services such as medical and dental services that catered to more than 200 patients.
A legal consultation and Real Property Tax campaign was also set-up.
249 individuals availed free seedlings through the Community Pantree and Sukat Bukel Program. The Provincial Government-Environment and Natural Resources Office were able to distribute 1,750 seedlings.
Fur parents also enjoyed the different veterinary services such as free anti-rabies vaccination and spaying to dogs and cats.
Jobseekers meanwhile converged at the La Union Job Fair. 248 applicants applied for job openings in various employers such as banks, supermarkets, hospitals, accommodation establishments, gas stations, and restaurants. There were also overseas work offered by overseas recruitment agencies.
Quality local products were displayed and sold at a cheaper price at the Kadiwa ng Pangulo, benefitting more than 20 farmers and Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises exhibitors.
Hundreds of Catholic devotees also joined the Thanksgiving Mass offered by the PGLU at the St. William the Hermit Cathedral.
Highlighting the province’s cultural significance and creativity, contingents from the different participating towns showcased their enthusiastic performance and vibrant community spirit in the Street Dance Showdown Competition.
The crowd cheered as bands BRYN and DREAM 7 together with prominent performers KZ Tandingan Kalokalike Vyan De la Cruz, Michael Dutchi and Sowhunly, took the centerstage.
The stage heated up as special guest performers OPM stars Maki and Janine Tenoso hyped the crowd while performing their best hits.
Through the celebration, the whole people of the province will continue to uphold the spirit of Love and Unity that has always been the foundation of La Union.