LA UNION — For years, La Union has been synonymous with the surf and sand of its beaches, mostly located in the province’s First District.

A concerted effort by the people — joined by the Provincial Government, municipal administrations, and barangay leaders — has shown a determination to bring a share of the spotlight to the rich, untapped treasures waiting in the province's uplands and interior, specifically in District 2.

In a move to unveil these hidden gems to the world, La Union hosted the "Media Agkaysa Ronda" (Media Unity Tour) from November 26 to 27, 2025. The tour gathered media practitioners from La Union, Pangasinan, and Baguio City, alongside local social media personalities and vloggers for a comprehensive two-day exploration of the Second District's cultural, agricultural, and scenic destinations.

Lakes, mountains, and local craftsmanship

The journey into La Union's heartland began with nature's serenity and the vibrant life of indigenous communities.

Barangay Libtong, Burgos, is home to the tranquil Libtong Lake. Visitors enjoyed the scenic view from a floating rest area and witnessed the agricultural dynamism of the community, which cultivates rice, various vegetables, and the native tiger grass used to produce "boyboy" or soft brooms.

Barangay Tagudtud, Bagulin, is rich in indigenous culture and primarily inhabited by the Kankanaey ethnolinguistic group. This part of the province offers breathtaking mountain scenery and the Kudal Peoples Park in Sitio Libaong. Visitors were treated to native delicacies like Suman and patupat, alongside local coffee and fresh vegetables, offering a taste of authentic upland cuisine.

Before seeing the baskets, lemon trees, and sipping the basi, a brief stop at the Naguilian Tourist Rest Area provided a comfortable break. Naguilian's agricultural prowess was highlighted at the "Perres" or squeeze Farm, a sprawling more than one-hectare plantation of lemon trees. Local basket weavers demonstrated their intricate skills and visitors learned about the production of Basi, the province's traditional sugarcane wine.

In Barangay Parian Oeste, Bauang, hectares of mangrove trees provide natural protection against flooding and storm surges. This ecological sanctuary is also home to "Kannaways" or seagulls. The fisherfolk community’s commitment to environmental preservation earned Bauang third place in the 2025 Para-ElMar Best Mangrove Award. Visitors enjoyed boat rides touring the wide mangrove area.

Emerging agro-tourism, floriculture, and religious heritage

Pugo: Mushroom Farming as a Livelihood Booster

Barangay Ambalite East, Pugo, houses TonyBeth Mushroom Production. The farm serves as both a commercial enterprise and a potential agro-tourism site, employing many students to help fund their education and personal expenses.

Rosario: Floral Beauty at Westcroft

At the Westcroft Farm and Garden Center in Barangay Inabaan, Rosario, visitors enjoyed a vibrant display of flowers and ornamental plants, along with the calming scents and landscaped gardens.

Agoo: Scenic Heights and Sustenance

The Tapaw in Barangay Macalva Norte, Agoo, offers a magnificent view of the sea and the lower areas of Agoo and other parts of La Union. Residents practice diverse agriculture, planting vegetables for local sale and rice for their own consumption.

Sto. Tomas: A Shrine of Faith and Fishery

The Holy Guardian Angels Parish in Barangay Rains, Sto. Tomas, houses the Miraculous Nuestra Señora Virgen del Mar Cautiva, enshrined there for 180 years. The surrounding barangay also features numerous fishponds, integrating faith and livelihood.

From its unique culture and scenic attractions to its burgeoning agri-tourism and authentic handicrafts and delicacies, the province proves it is far more than just a beach destination. While further developments and improvements are taking place, the places in District 2 of La Union can offer a truly holistic experience that can "satisfy and provide the tourist what they deserve."