GOAT — Greatest of All Time? In La Union, that title isn’t just for sports legends. It’s proudly worn by the four-legged stars of the livestock industry, and they showed up in style. As one of the province’s strongest economic pillars, livestock production continues to power local livelihoods. The Provincial Government isn’t just focused on it. It is cultivating, nurturing, and championing the industry to ensure it grows stronger each year. This commitment was on full display when the Provincial Government of La Union, through the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian, paraded 17 of the cutest goats around the San Fernando City Plaza during the opening of the La Union Agri Trade Fair on February 23, 2026. The delightful parade was part of the festivities for the 176th La Union Founding Anniversary. Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Domingo Bobby C. Calub III said this activity aimed to spotlight the province’s booming goat industry and highlight goat meat as a vital economic resource for La Union’s farmers and communities. Seventeen goats — coming in male-female pairs —  proudly represented different towns across the province. Their respective Municipal Agriculture Offices and City Veterinary Office carefully scouted the most mesmerizing mekmek, the Ilokano nickname for goat, to take part in the parade. The entries showcased not only healthy livestock but also the dedication and hard work of local raisers behind them. And what’s a parade without a little flair? The mekmek strutted around the plaza in colorful and creative costumes. There was a bride and groom duo that looked ready to say “I do,” a swaggering cowboy mekmek straight out of the Wild West, and other charmingly dressed contenders that drew cheers, laughter, and countless photo snaps from the crowd. The mekmek of the Municipality of Naguilian, both doe and buck, stole the spotlight and was hailed as the Most Amazing Mekmek. Municipality of Balaoan, both buck and doe, got first place. The municipality of Santol got the second place for buck category and Municipality of Tubao got the third place for doe category. Indeed, being the GOAT is both an honor and a spectacle. Meanwhile, Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega reaffirmed the PGLU’s unwavering support for farmers and livestock raisers, emphasizing that agriculture remains a major economic thrust of the province. With initiatives like the Agri Trade Fair and the Parade of GOATs, La Union continues to celebrate not only its heritage but also the hardworking hands and hooves that help drive its progress. Because in this province, the GOAT isn’t just the greatest of all time. It is also the greatest of the farm.        

  SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Philippines – The Mais Festival of the town of Tubao was crowned champion in the first-ever Battle of La Union Festivals: Street Dancing Competition, one of the highlights of the 176th La Union Founding Anniversary celebration. The 20 towns of La Union, including the city of San Fernando, excelled in their hometowns festivals wearing colorful costumes as they danced to the tune of the tourism jingle “Feel La Union” along the city’s main streets last afternoon and in a showdown competition at night at the Francisco Ortega Convention Center, on February 21. Apart from being the champion of the Mais Festival with a cash prize of P300,000, they were also crowned Best in Production Design with a prize of P20,000. The Panagyaman Festival of the town of Balaoan was crowned First Runner-up. The Abel-Panday Festival of Balaoan was named 2nd Runner-up, receiving P200,000 and an additional P20,000, after one their team was selected to be the Reyna Ti Agkaysa title, while the Tinungbo Festival of Pugo and Best in Street Dance was the 3rd Runner-up, with a total prize of P170,000 and the Kawayan Festival of Sudipen was the 4th Runner-up with a prize of P100,000. With the theme ‘RiknaTi Agkaysa’, the anniversary of La Union, sincerely reflects the spirit of the promoted “LaUnionAgkaysa” which highlighted the celebration, where the municipalities once again united in showcasing the rich culture and eternal pride of their respective towns. As the Elyucanos proudly showcase their talents, the Provincial Government of La Union continues to elevate platforms that celebrate and preserve the unique cultural identity and heritage of each town. 𝗚𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗵𝗮𝗿𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁, 𝗴𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝘃𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 Tubao Mayor Atty. Jonalyn Garcia Fontanilla-Piayas this journey was guided by a clear vision and united purpose, said in her post at social media. From preparation to performance, the whole municipality moved as one – proving that when leadership is firm and the community stands together, excellence follows. Behind the brilliance on stage were countless sleepless nights, exhausting rehearsals, tired bodies, and silent sacrifices. Yet our performers never wavered. Led by the pride of Tubao, Sta. Teresa National High School, together with other participating schools, carried our culture and story with pride onto the grand stage of La Union. This success was made even stronger by the creative minds and leadership behind the performance: Head Choreographer: Ralph Ancheta Instrumentalist: STCB Musical Director: Leonard Paul Barrozo Props Director: Raymond Ancheta and Company Street Dance Coordinators: Vanessa Paula Abiog, Riza Diaz and John Paul Danao Chairman: Renz Delizo Co – Chairman: Melanio Danao TNHS Principal: Robert Estoesta SAMA Principal: Marianita Romero “To all teachers, choreographers, musicians, props team, parents, volunteers, Barangay officials, and all who believed and supported — thank you. This victory reflects your dedication, talent, and unity. Not every seed is applauded when it is planted – but when it blooms, it speaks for itself. This is more than a trophy; it is proof that perseverance, trust, and collective effort yield golden results.” (By Zaldy Comanda)

LA UNION, Philippines – Driven by a call to serve the public during its 176th Founding Anniversary, the various offices of the Provincial Government of La Union have stepped up their game—not just to lead, but to demonstrate a deep sense of servitude in leadership. Central to this mission is the Aldaw iti Umili, on February 20, 2026 in Aringay, La Union. This reflected the provincial leaders’ unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality public service in honor of the Kailians of La Union. The event delivered essential government services directly to the community, providing medical-dental care, agricultural and environmental support, veterinary services, and legal consultations. As the festivities continue to shine, PGLU remains steadfast in its commitment to serve in excellence. By aligning their agendas with a focus on inclusive growth, the provincial leaders are working towards a sustainable model of development tailored to the unique needs of our kailians in La Union.

  LA UNION, Philippines — The Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) in close collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) Region 1, reinforced their shared commitment to environmental protection during the blessing and inauguration of the newly constructed Environmental Laboratory Building of the DENR-EMB Region 1 on February 5, 2026 in Brgy. Sevilla, City of San Fernando. Gov. Mario underscored the importance of collaboration in delivering public infrastructure projects, citing the laboratory as a product of shared responsibility among national and local agencies. “We cannot realize a project without working together for it,” the governor said, highlighting the facility’s role in strengthening environmental monitoring and regulation in the region. The project was realized through a multi-agency partnership involving DENR-EMB Region 1, with support from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) under its infrastructure program, and the donation of land by the PGLU. Among those present at the inauguration were DPWH Region 1 Director Engr. Richard A. Ragasa, DENR-EMB Region 1 officials including Engr. Maria Dorica Naz-Hipe and Engr. Nicanor C. Esteban, and DENR Region 1 OIC Regional Executive Director Atty. Ronnel C. Sopsop. This joint initiative between the PGLU and DENR-EMB marks a significant step in reinforcing La Union’s proactive approach to environmental protection and regulation to continue to support the province’s long-term ecological stewardship.

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Philippines  – Governor Mario Eduardo Ortega led the Agkaysa (Unity) Walk, on February 15, as a signal for the opening of activities in the celebration of the 176th Founding Anniversary of the province of La Union. Bannering the theme “Rikna ti Agkaysa”, the celebration kicked-off with the Agkaysa Walk, Unity Fun Bike, and the “Lagip ti Umili” Photo Exhibit. Ortega led the opening of the events together with Vice Governor Eric Sibuma and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members during the opening ceremony at SM City La Union. “We are bringing back the glow and joy of this celebration for my fellow ka-Elyucanos. This is more than just a celebration but also a grand showcase of our pride, unity, and resilience throughout the years”, Ortega said. This year’s founding anniversary goes beyond the celebration but also a reminder of a united and resilient La Union that continues to bind the people together towards solidarity and sustainable growth and progress. Ortega said that the celebration of the founding anniversary this year will be meaningful, happy and historic, because of the cooperation of every local government official, stakeholders and the community. He said, “This year’s founding anniversary goes beyond the celebration but also a reminder of a united and resilient La Union that continues to bind the people together towards solidarity and sustainable growth and progress.” Ortega also led the official sashing of the beautiful Mutia Ti La Union 2026 candidates, whose Coronation Night will be held on March 2. In a tribute to the province’s rich cultural and historical legacy, PGLU immersed visitors in a journey back in time as it launched the “Lagip ti Umili” Photo Exhibit. The exhibit featured a curated collection of photos that revisit the province’s cultural heritage and significant milestones that have forged La Union’s identity today. The people of La Union are set to witness the major crowd-drawing festivities that are set to return this year, such as the Battle of La Union Festivals Street Dancing Competition, which will feature performances from contingents of the 20 component Local Government Units, showcasing their vibrant artistry and culture. La Union is also ready to light up the streets as it welcomes back the Grand Electric Float Parade in a dazzling display of colorful lights and intricate designs. The lineup of activities also features the Culture and Arts Festival, Aldaw ti Umili, Am-among ti La Union 2026, and the Rescuelympics. Other highly anticipated highlights include the Elyulympics, Agkaysa Concert, and the prestigious coronation night of Mutia ti La Union 2026. (By Zaldy Comanda)                

  SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union –Governor Mario Ortega expressed his full support and commitment to the province’s compliance with the directives of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. regarding the national budget during the “Badyet ng Bayan at Mamamayan” (BBM) Usapang Budget Natin Forum held at the Bacnotan Public Market in Bacnotan, La Union, which hosted the Luzon portion of the forum, on February 13. Ortega and Bacnotan Mayor Divina Fontanilla welcomed cabinet secretaries, including DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon; heads of provincial and regional agencies, national officials from various departments, and other distinguished guests who attended the occasion. Fontanilla also expressed his deep gratitude to the national agencies for recognizing and choosing Bacnotan as the first-ever Luzon forum. According to Ortega, the importance of transparency in the use of the national budget to further strengthen priority sectors in line with the development goals of his administration. He also emphasized the important cooperation between the Provincial and National Governments in delivering accessible and quality services to the people of La Union and accelerating growth. “We are here to serve and I open my heart to all of them, let’s unite to improve La Union,” said Ortega. Secretary Dizon assured the province that they will complete the Bauang–San Fernando Bypass Road project by 2027, to completely relieve traffic in downtown areas and to benefit residents and tourists. In his statement at the forum, Dizon said that efforts are being made to expedite projects to further boost tourism in the Ilocos Region, including the Naguilian–Bagulin–Kapangan Road, both of which are targeted for completion also by 2027. He also said that the construction of the Rosario Bypass Road and the TPLEX Extension, are being expedited with the help of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and San Miguel Corporation. “This is the lowest budget of the DPWH. The DPWH budget is almost half, if we compare it to last year, because this year’s allocation is small, but don’t worry, the agency will work within its budget.” (By Zaldy Comanda)          

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan, Philippines — Pangasinan continues to post strong tourism figures, recording sustained visitor arrivals and employment generation following the courtesy call of Department of Tourism (DOT) Region I Regional Director Benjamin D. Manahan Jr. with Governor Ramon V. Guico III on February 4, 2026. For 2025, Pangasinan logged 846,341 visitor arrivals, generating approximately ₱1.109 billion in tourist receipts and 17,564 tourism-related jobs, reflecting continued growth in tourism activity across the province. Tourism rankings for 2025 overnight guest arrivals in Region I placed Bolinao, Pangasinan at the top, with 248,942 visitors. Several municipalities in the province also ranked among the leading destinations, including San Nicolas, Alaminos City, Dasol, San Fabian, Sta. Barbara, Anda, Urdaneta City, and Labrador, demonstrating Pangasinan’s broad contribution to regional tourism movement. During the meeting, Governor Guico emphasized the need for stronger assistance in tourism promotion to further expand Pangasinan’s reach to both domestic and international markets, citing promotion as a key factor in sustaining visitor growth and maximizing tourism assets. Meanwhile, RD Manahan expressed his appreciation for Pangasinan’s direction and conveyed the agency’s readiness to assist, particularly in promotional efforts and the development of tourism programs that can generate more economic activity across the province. The courtesy call was attended by 1st District Congressman Arthur F. Celeste, Provincial Tourism Officer Maria Luisa Elduayan, DOT Region I Assistant Regional Director Evangeline Dadat, and other officials of the Department of Tourism. Recently, a newly built Pangasinan’s first Tourist Rest Area (TRA) was opened to the public at Capitol Beach Park, Lingayen under the leadership of Gov. Ramon V. Guico III, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism and TIEZA. The Tourist Rest Area is a one-stop facility with a café, comfort rooms, lactation room, charging stations, information counters, and a pasalubong center for MSMEs. (Danna Laureano, photo by JP De Vera | PIMRO)

By Zaldy Comanda   SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union – The Provincial Government of La Union through the Provincial Treasurer Office has launched the ‘Bida Ka Lounge’, which aims to provide a welcoming and stress-free environment for taxpayers while processing their payments. “It’s tax season, so we know that our taxpayers are tired of waiting in line and processing their paperwork, so we thought of setting up a space here at the Provincial Treasurer’s Office to serve as a lounge or a place to rest and relax while our employees assist them,” said Governor Mario Ortega. According to Ortega, his administration aims to provide good service and make their transactions with the provincial government pleasant and to make them feel the ‘Agkaysa La Union’ program. Taxpayers at the said office will receive free food and tokens as a simple token of gratitude for their cooperation and support. This initiative is part of the province’s ongoing BIDA KA Campaign, which promotes good governance, mutual respect, and positive citizen participation. According to Ortega, early tax payment not only helps avoid penalties and last-minute hassles, but also allows the provincial government to better plan and fund programs, projects, and services that will benefit all residents of La Union. Through initiatives like the BIDA KA Lounge, the Provincial Government reaffirms its commitment to recognizing responsible taxpayers and making public services more accessible, efficient, and citizen-centered.          

  LA UNION, Philippines — In line with the local government’s recovery interventions for typhoon-hit constituents, the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) in coordination with the Local Government Units (LGU) has commenced the distribution of essential housing materials and various assistance on January 21, 2026 to another batch of families whose homes were totally damaged due to the wrath of typhoons last year. Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega led the ceremonial turnover of assistance to beneficiaries from various municipalities, together with the municipal mayors, members of the Sangguniang Bayan, and officials of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, exemplifying a collective commitment to rebuild communities and a public service grounded in empathy and compassion. Beneficiaries received colored roofing, coco lumber, plywood, and nails from the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD). Complementing this, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) provided additional assistance, including a sack of rice, gallons of potable water, hygiene kits, shelter repair kits, and food packs.