The local government of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte is considering filing legal charges and declaring a social media vlogger persona non grata over alleged misleading claims about fees collected at the Saud Municipal Beach Park.

The controversy arose after the vlogger claimed in a video that visitors were being charged P600 as a two-hour entrance fee.

Municipal administrator Atty. Corpuz denied the allegation, clarifying that the P600 is the rental fee for a cottage from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with an additional P100 per hour for extended use. He said the actual environmental fees are P50 for adults, P40 for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and students and P25 for children aged 8 to 12. Children aged seven and below, those measuring three feet or shorter, and Pagudpud residents are exempt.

Corpuz said the fees are authorized under Municipal Ordinance No. 2025-039 and noted that the vlogger allegedly did not verify the rates with beach park personnel.

The municipal government believes the content may have been intended to generate online engagement and is now evaluating possible legal remedies, including declaring the vlogger persona non grata.

In a statement, the LGU stressed that all fees at Saud Municipal Beach Park are transparent and authorized by ordinance. It also collects parking fees of P150 for light vehicles and P300 for buses and trucks for up to 10 hours, with an additional P100 per hour for extended parking.

The municipality said the revenues fund beach maintenance, environmental conservation, sanitation, public safety, tourism facilities, and livelihood programs for residents.

The LGU urged tourists to verify information through official channels and reaffirmed its commitment to responsible, transparent and sustainable tourism.