SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union — The La Union government launched its 176th founding anniversary celebration on Feb. 15 with a series of activities highlighting unity, culture and shared progress across the province.
Carrying the theme “Rikna ti Agkaysa” (Feel the Unity), the festivities began at SM City La Union with the Agkaysa Walk, Unity Fun Bike and the Lagip ti Umili Photo Exhibit, which showcased key milestones and historical moments that shaped the province’s identity.
Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega, joined by Vice Governor Eric Sibuma and other provincial officials, led the opening rites.
“Open communication and sincere hands extended to our fellow leaders will always be returned in kind. What we are showing in La Union today is not just unity for our province, but a national example at a time when the country itself is politically divided,” Ortega said.
Hundreds of cyclists participated in the Unity Fun Bike, traversing routes from Rosario to Sudipen, symbolizing cooperation among youth groups, government agencies and civic organizations.
The month-long anniversary celebration will feature major events such as 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.
Organizers said the activities aim to further strengthen La Union’s position as a cultural and tourism hub in the Ilocos Region.
The opening day concluded with the sashing ceremony of the Mutia ti La Union candidates, formally introducing them as part of the province’s anniversary highlights.