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.
