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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider San Juan, La Union deserves to be tagged 'Surfing Capital of the North', says Ortega

San Juan, La Union deserves to be tagged 'Surfing Capital of the North', says Ortega

Published Jul 5, 2025 05:24 pm

At A Glance

  • House "Young Guns" bloc member La Union 1st district Rep. Paolo Ortega V is pursuing a measure that--if enacted--will further his province's growing reputation as a summer destination.
La Union 1st district Rep. Paolo Ortega V (PPAB)
La Union 1st district Rep. Paolo Ortega V (PPAB)


House Young Guns bloc member La Union 1st district Rep. Paolo Ortega V is pursuing a measure that--if enacted--will further his province's growing reputation as a summer destination.
Filed by Ortega in the 20th Congress was House Bill (HB) No.1214, which sought to formally declare the municipality of San Juan, La Union, as the “Surfing Capital of the North.
The measure will also secure appropriations for the development and promotion of San Juan town as such. This initiative underscores San Juan’s pivotal role in boosting tourism and economic growth in La Union, which aspires to become the Agri-Tourism Center of Northern Luzon by 2025.
“San Juan’s natural beauty, world-renowned surf breaks, and warm, hospitable community make it a jewel of Northern Luzon,” said Ortega.
“By formally recognizing San Juan as the Surfing Capital of the North, we aim to unlock greater opportunities for tourism, infrastructure development, and job creation, ensuring sustainable growth for our people,” explained the second termer in the House of Representatives.
San Juan--part of La Union’s Central Circuit alongside San Fernando City, Bacnotan, and San Gabriel--has emerged as a premier surfing destination, contributing significantly to the province’s growing tourist arrivals.
The town's surfing tourism generated an impressive P2 billion in revenue in 2023 and 2024. This highlighted its economic potential.
The municipality’s reputation as a surfing hub was cemented when it successfully hosted the surfing events of the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, and drew global attention to its world-class waves and vibrant local culture.
The Ortega bill seeks to enhance San Juan’s tourism infrastructure, promote its surfing culture, and attract more domestic and international visitors. This aligns with La Union’s broader vision of leveraging its endowed resources and natural attractions to strengthen competitiveness in the region.
Ortega’s advocacy for San Juan is just one facet of a broader legislative agenda focused on uplifting his district.
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