Ilocos Region’s Coastal Gem
Economic Strengths
- Tourism (beaches, surfing)
- Agriculture (tobacco, rice, corn)
- Fishing and aquaculture
- Manufacturing (food processing, textiles)
Demographic Advantages
- Young population (28.36% aged 14 and below)
- Growing workforce (64.88% aged 15-64)
- Median age: 27
Key Attractions
- San Fernando City (capital, regional center)
- Pinganduen River (rafting, kayaking)
- Urbiztondo Beach (surfing)
- Tangadan Falls (hiking, trekking)
Opportunities
- Eco-tourism development
- Agricultural modernization
- Infrastructure upgrades (roads, ports)
- IT-BPO industry growth
Challenges
- Coastal erosion
- Environmental conservation
- Traffic congestion
- Public health
Why Invest in La Union?
La Union offers:
- Strategic location (near Metro Manila)
- Skilled workforce
- Natural attractions
- Government support
- Growing infrastructure
| Name | City/ Municipality | Population (2020) | Population (2015) | Annual Population Growth Rate (2015‑2020) | Area (km2) | Density (2020), per km2 | Brgy count |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agoo | municipality | 66,028 | 63,692 | 0.76% | 52.84 | 1,250 | 49 |
| Aringay | municipality | 50,380 | 47,458 | 1.27% | 84.54 | 596 | 24 |
| Bacnotan | municipality | 44,388 | 42,078 | 1.13% | 78.18 | 568 | 47 |
| Bagulin | municipality | 14,428 | 13,456 | 1.48% | 107.33 | 134 | 10 |
| Balaoan | municipality | 40,339 | 39,188 | 0.61% | 68.70 | 587 | 36 |
| Bangar | municipality | 38,041 | 35,947 | 1.20% | 37.36 | 1,018 | 33 |
| Bauang | municipality | 78,449 | 75,032 | 0.94% | 73.15 | 1,072 | 39 |
| Burgos | municipality | 9,006 | 8,067 | 2.35% | 70.80 | 127 | 12 |
| Caba | municipality | 23,119 | 22,039 | 1.01% | 46.31 | 499 | 17 |
| Luna | municipality | 37,318 | 35,802 | 0.88% | 42.90 | 870 | 40 |
| Naguilian | municipality | 52,189 | 54,221 | -0.80% | 104.60 | 499 | 37 |
| Pugo | municipality | 19,337 | 19,690 | -0.38% | 62.84 | 308 | 14 |
| Rosario | municipality | 60,278 | 55,458 | 1.77% | 73.98 | 815 | 33 |
| San Fernando | city (CC), capital, regional center | 125,640 | 121,812 | 0.65% | 102.72 | 1,223 | 59 |
| San Gabriel | municipality | 18,943 | 18,172 | 0.88% | 129.87 | 146 | 15 |
| San Juan | municipality | 40,507 | 37,188 | 1.82% | 57.12 | 709 | 41 |
| Santo Tomas | municipality | 40,846 | 39,092 | 0.93% | 64.00 | 638 | 24 |
| Santol | municipality | 14,166 | 12,476 | 2.71% | 93.70 | 151 | 11 |
| Sudipen | municipality | 17,187 | 17,056 | 0.16% | 97.59 | 176 | 17 |
| Tubao | municipality | 31,763 | 28,729 | 2.14% | 50.75 | 626 | 18 |
| La Union Total | 822,352 | 786,653 | 0.94% | 1,499.28 | 548 | 576 | |
Economy
La Union is a province in the Philippines known for its diversified economy, which encompasses various sectors, including service, manufacturing, and agriculture. The province has several factors contributing to its economic diversity and growth:
Service Sector: The service industry plays a significant role in La Union’s economy. This sector includes businesses such as retail, hospitality, healthcare, education, and other service-oriented enterprises. The province likely benefits from tourism, with visitors enjoying its beautiful beaches, scenic spots, and cultural attractions.
Manufacturing Sector: La Union has a manufacturing sector, which includes various industries such as food processing, textiles, and other production activities. Manufacturing contributes to job creation and economic development in the province.
Agricultural Sector: Agriculture is a vital component of La Union’s economy. The province’s fertile land and favorable climate make it suitable for various crops such as rice, corn, tobacco, and fruits. Fishing is also an important activity along its coastal areas.
Port of San Fernando: The Port of San Fernando serves as a crucial shipping point, connecting La Union to other parts of the Philippines and facilitating trade. Its increasing activity suggests a growing import and export business in the province.
Wallace Air Station: The conversion of the former American airbase, Wallace Air Station, into a business and industrial area has likely attracted investments and commercial activities. This transformation has likely contributed to the economic development of La Union by providing space for various businesses and industries.
Tourism
La Union is a popular destination for tourists, especially those looking to surf. The province is home to several surfing spots, including San Juan, Bauang, and Urbiztondo. These beaches are known for their consistent waves and are suitable for surfers of all levels.
Aside from surfing, La Union also has several historical landmarks and cultural attractions. The Ma-Cho Temple in San Fernando is a Taoist temple that was built in the 1970s. It features intricate carvings and colorful murals that depict Chinese mythology.
The Baluarte Watchtower in Luna is another popular tourist spot. It is a centuries-old stone tower that was built by the Spanish to protect the province from pirates and other invaders. The tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is a great place to watch the sunset.
