THE province of La Union kicked off its 176th founding anniversary Sunday with a photo exhibit led by Gov. Mario Ortega in a popular mall in San Fernando City. (Liezle Basa Inigo)
The province of La Union kicked off 176th founding anniversary on Sunday, Feb. 15, with the theme “Rikna ti Agkaysa” (Feel the Unity).
The event started with a unity walk, unity fun bike, and photo exhibit in a popular mall in San Fernando City.
The exhibit featured a curated collection of photos on the province’s cultural heritage and significant milestones that have forged its identity today. Hundreds of cyclists joined the unity fun bike from Rosario to Sudipen.
Gov. Mario Eduardo C. Ortega, Vice Gov. Eric Sibuma, and provincial officials graced the opening of the exhibit.
"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.
Ortega said that this year’s event will be meaningful, happy, and historic because of the cooperation of every local government official, stakeholders, and the community.
“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.”
The month-long event includes the Battle of La Union Festivals Street Dancing, Grand Electric Float Parade, Culture and Arts Festival, Elyulympics, Rescuelympics, Agkaysa Concert, and Mutia ti La Union 2026.
Today’s events were capped by the official sashing of the Mutia ti La Union candidates whose coronation night will be held on March 2. (With a report from Zaldy Comanda)