Under the dynamic leadership of Rep. Christopher “Toff” de Venecia, Pangasinan’s Fourth District has become a vibrant center for arts, culture, and tourism. Known for its diverse cultural heritage and natural beauty, the district continues to innovate through landmark initiatives that celebrate local creativity and community spirit.
Cultural Initiatives Anakbanwa Creative Residency
Launched in 2021, the Anakbanwa Creative Residency provides artists with an immersive experience in Pangasinan’s rich cultural landscape. This residency invites creatives from all disciplines to connect with local communities, learn from diverse artistic practices, and engage with the ecological and cultural heritage of the district. It emphasizes sustainable arts practices, encouraging artists to respond to social and environmental issues while collaborating with local artisans and craftspeople.
GALILA Arts Festival
The GALILA Arts Festival is a testament to Rep. de Venecia’s commitment to fostering creativity and community engagement. This multi-arts festival celebrates the cultural richness of the Fourth District by providing a platform for residents to express their artistic identities. The festival champions public spaces and local businesses, promoting a future where creativity and community empowerment go hand in hand.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag
A pilgrimage destination, this iconic basilica draws thousands of devotees and tourists every year, offering a serene space for reflection and prayer in the town of Manaoag.
MacArthur House
Located at West Central Elementary School in Dagupan City, this historic building served as General Douglas MacArthur’s command post during World War II. Thanks to Rep. de Venecia’s efforts, it has been restored and transformed into a heritage site, inviting visitors to explore a piece of history.
Tondaligan Blue Beach
Situated in Barangay Bonuan Gueset, Dagupan City, Tondaligan Blue Beach is a beloved local destination, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance, as it is one of the alleged landing sites of General MacArthur in Pangasinan.
Calamansian ed Lekep Butao
This agri-tourism site in San Fabian boasts of approximately 6,000 calamansi trees, producing popular products like Calamansi Juice and Calamansi Crinkles, showcasing the district’s agricultural bounty.
Tiblong Salt Refinery
Located in San Fabian, this salt refinery not only produces high-quality salt but also supports local women through the Tiblong’s Flavored Salt initiative, creating sustainable livelihoods.
Mangaldan Blacksmiths
Famed for crafting swords used in the film “Braveheart,” the blacksmiths of Barangay Bari in Mangaldan highlight a unique aspect of the district’s artisanal heritage.
Dragon Fruit Farm
The Fortune Dragon Fruit Farm is located in Barangay San Juan, San Jacinto. Established in 2015, the 12 hectare farm is home to different farm and exotic animals. It is mostly known for the Drgaon Fruit that they produce.
Through these creative and cultural initiatives, along with its rich array of tourist attractions, the Fourth District of Pangasinan under Rep. Toff de Venecia’s leadership is a beacon of innovation and cultural pride. By investing in the arts and celebrating local history, the district continues to enrich the cultural tapestry of the Philippines, embodying a vibrant future for Pangasinenses and visitors alike.
