Local History Book: Lingayen

Book Cover Book Cover

Title Page Title Page

Copy Right Page Copy Right Page

Dedication Dedication

Table of Contents Table of Contents

Table of Contents Table of Contents

Foreword Foreword

Acknowledgement Acknowledgement

Preface Preface

Prologue Prologue

Prologue Prologue

All about Lingayen All about Lingayen

Lingayen is a first-class municipality and is the capital of the province of Pangasinan, Philippines officially called the Municipality of Lingayen. Lingayen has a colorful history and is the home of some historical events, people, and fiestas in the Philippines. The municipality is famous for the historical Lingayen Gulf Landing/Invasion of Lingayen where General Douglas MacArthur landed on January 9, 1945. Moreover, it was the hometown of the late former President of the Philippines, Fidel V. Ramos. It is also known for its local products like Lingayen Bagoong, which is already exported internationally to Korea, Canada, the United States of America, and Saudi Arabia. Its principal trade and occupation are farming, fishing, carpentry, wood furniture making, and primary cottage industries.

Geography Geography

Lingayen is a municipality in Pangasinan, a part of the Ilocos Region (Region 1) of the Philippines. It has 32 barangays with a land area of 67.70 kilometers and a population of 107,728. It lies on the North of the Lingayen Gulf, south by Bugallon, east by Binmaley, and west by Labrador.

Barangays Barangays iin n Lingayen Lingayen

Origin Origin

Lingayen was founded by the Augustinian Missionaries and the Spanish conquistadores or conquerors. In 1614, they drew the layout of Lingayen based on the national pattern wherein they first designed the plaza, then the church, and last the Presidencia building or the office of the gobernadorcillo during the colonial period. There are two origins of the name Lingayen. The first one was it was named Lingayen in accordance with the natives’ suggestions. It was said that there was a big Tamarind tree in the plaza that made all the other trees surrounding it seem small.

The natives in the town used to look back on the tree whenever they passed by until it disappeared from their sight, and when they came home, when someone asked them which way they took, they will instantly answer, “ sa lingayen," which means “through lingayen”. The second story about the origin of the town’s name was, according to Gregorio Zaide, it was named Lingayen because of a Chinese adventurer named Ling Ah Yen, who established his kingdom in that area.

The Rise of Fidel The Rise of Fidel V. Ramos V. Ramos

Fidel V. Ramos Fidel V. Ramos

Fidel “Eddie” Valdez Ramos was born on March 18, 1928, in a provincial elite family in Lingayen, Pangasinan, under American Colonial Rule. The house where his family lived stands just at walking distance from their provincial capitol and the Lingayen Gulf where General Douglas MacArthur and his men landed in January 1945.

Eddie’s grandfather, Placido Ramos, was Sa veteran of the Katipunan who fought in the infamous battle of Dagupan (1898) that ended the Spanish Rule in Pangasinan. Fidel’s father, Narciso Ramos, was a reformist that started as a journalist before he took part in politics and diplomacy. Meanwhile, Eddie’s mother, Angela Valdez Ramos, worked as a teacher who specializes in English.

The career of her mother had two significant impacts on Fidel’s life. His nickname “Eddie,” given by his mother, was inspired by a contemporary poet Edgar Albert Guest; And, he grew up with punctiliousness in the English language and a love for reading due to his mother’s influence.

Friends and relatives of young Eddie unanimously described him as respectful, humble, friendly, and easy to get along with.

Despite belonging to an elite family, Ramos describes himself as a middle-class boy who can talk to and get along with anyone regardless of social class.

As a child, he often felt guilty for riding a car to school while he saw others walking barefoot, so he invites them to join the ride despite being squeezed with his sister Letty to make room for others. Aside from his humility, his classmates also praised him for being quiet and adventurous, showing signs of leadership at a young age. When World War 2 broke out, his family moved to Manila for his father’s political duties; meanwhile, Eddie remained in Pangasinan for one year to graduate with his class as the valedictorian.

During the war, Eddie helped in the underground anti-Japanese movement, the Maharlika, under his father, Narciso Ramos, and his cousin Ferdinand Marcos. Young Eddie worked mainly in the intelligence unit by monitoring and distributing broadcasts and serving as a courier from ages 14 to 16. At that point, he found interest in mnemonics which enhanced his memorization skill, a skill that he found beneficial in the later part of his life.

Regarding his education, Eddie continued learning in Manila despite his participation in the war. Eddie claimed his high school diploma at Centro Escolar University. In June 1945, the months after he graduated, he enrolled at the College of Engineering at National University –Manila, nearby his high school. His choice of engineering education was influenced by the devastation the war brought to the Philippines. Later in the same year, after the victory of the United States against the Japanese, the U.S. Military Academy West Point offered one slot for a Filipino cadet to by a competitive examination.

Ramos won the slot and embarked for New York in July 1946 after completing a year of civil engineering. In his autobiography for Japan’s Nikkei, Fidel stated that one of the primary reasons he chose to compete for the West Point slot is to continue his engineering studies for free and to receive the tools he need for the reconstruction of the country.

In West Point, Ramos was recognized as a remarkable teen who was marked to achieve great things. Even Former NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) Supreme Commander John Galvin, recalled him with praises, stating that “he was known to be special before he arrived.” Eddie performed well in the tough four-year regimen, acing in English, Mathematics, and Spanish. He mentioned in records that his motivation to do good in West Point is the idea that he represents the country. He developed a sense of identity with the country, believing that his success or failure would mean that of the country

In 1950, Eddie graduated as part of the top ten percent of his batch of 672 graduates. During those years, the most significant lessons he learned are the meaning of duty, honor, and county (which meant two things to him), as he mentioned in a speech. After West Point, he pursued a master’s degree in civil engineering at the University of Illinois.

Following his graduation from West Point comes the beginning of officer Ramos’ career. He participated in and even led multiple military operations, which are significant to our history. Among his best contributions as an officer are his relevant roles in the Philippine Civic Action Group (PHILCAG), in confrontations against the Huks, NPA, and the Mindanao

Insurgency, his contributions to National Development and Security, and more. He later became a significant individual in the government and the army. He was given high positions and roles during the regime of his cousin Ferdinand Marcos.

During Martial Law, Eddie served as the law enforcer and jailer since he was assigned to the highest position in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Chief-of-Staff. He defended the need for martial law at that time though he was said to be trying to soften the punishments imposed by the dictator. Furthermore, after the assassination of Senator Ninoy Aquino, Ramos distanced himself from the Malacañang. He was sick of the crimes and greediness behind martial law, so he opposed the administration. Then General Fidel V. Ramos became one of the most influential motivators for the EDSA Revolution that ended the Martial Law and the Marcos Regime.

Two years after the successful revolution, General Ramos was appointed as the Secretary of National Defense. This appointment marks the rise of conversations regarding making Ramos the next Filipino President. From 1988 to the year of the elections, senators and congressmen stated ambitions of having Ramos in the highest office. The people who expressed this idea directly to the media include Congresswoman Lorna Verano Yap, Senator Ernesto Maceda, and Senator Edgardo Angara. Moreover, organizations and draft movements supporting Ramos for president sprang up. However, following those movements are the Anti-Ramos plots which directly oppose the idea of Ramos being the president.

Ramos fought a tough campaign period for the 1992 election, against the late senator Miriam Defensor Santiago. However, one of the advantages he had was the endorsement by President Cory Aquino and her political party, which is said to be the deciding factor in the presidential elections. In addition, he had several supporters in provinces outside Manila, especially in the Ilokano region, which resulted in him securing the presidential office in May 1992.

The Ramos Presidency The Ramos Presidency

Prioritizing this objective led to commendable progress as the sector most affected positively by the Ramos Administration is the country’s economy. During his presidency, the project “Philippines 2000” emerged in the country as the primary economic program of the administration. Moreover, the Philippines, which came from a devastating economy, ended up with admirable records. The Philippines ranked high in global competitiveness as assessed by international development institutions.

The main objective of the Ramos Administration was to restructure the country’s political and administrative arrangement to prioritize economic development.

In addition, the agricultural and industrial sectors of the country recorded healthy growth rates compared to the average growth rates among ASEAN countries. Unfortunately, the performance in the service industry is low, and the country had one of the highest unemployment rates at the time compared to neighboring countries. However, the statistics still showed healthy growth rates in those sectors, considering their records. Furthermore, the Ramos Administration drastically improved its financial position through liberalization, deregulation, and privatization. These financial and economic activities enabled the government to reduce the country’s debt problems and paved the way for future opportunities since the country had been regarded with high credit lines.

Ambrosio Bibby Padilla Ambrosio Bibby Padilla

Ambrosio Bibby Padilla was born on December 7, 1910 in Lingayen, Pangasinan. He is the eighth of eleven children of Dr. Nicanor Padilla and Ysabel Bibby. On May 4, 1941, he married the lovely Lourdes "Lily" de las Alas, who had been President Manuel L. Quezon's Secretary of Finance. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree as a summa cum laude from Ateneo de Manila University and completed his Bachelor of Laws at the University of the Philippines as salutatorian; and placed third overall in the 1934 bar examinations. He received his Doctorate Degree in Civil Laws (D.C.L.) meritissimus at the University of Sto. Tomas.

The Athletic Career of Ambrosio Bibby Padilla

Padilla captained the 1928 Ateneo de Manila Blue Eagles varsity basketball team, which won the 1928 NCAA (Philippines) basketball championship under coach James A. Martin, S.J. At the 1936 Berlin World Olympic Games, he captained the national basketball team finishing sixth, the bestever result for the nation, with just one loss to the United States. He also served as the team's playing coach.

The Political Career of Ambrosio Padilla

In 1954, Padilla was appointed solicitor general by President Ramon Magsaysay. Later, in 1957, he resigned to run for the Senate and succeed. Padilla was a senator until President Ferdinand Marcos proclaimed martial law in 1972. Despite his stature and disregarding the risks associated with his resistance to the martial law government, he openly opposed the Marcos regime using his legal expertise and commitment to freedom.

President Corazon Aquino selected Padilla to the 1986 Constitutional Commission to draft a new constitution for the nation following the dethroning of Marcos in the People Power Revolution in 1986. Former Supreme Court Associate Justice Cecilia Muoz Palma was chosen as the commission's head, and Padilla became its vice-chairman. In a referendum held on February 2, 1987, the Filipinos formally accepted the new Constitution.

Gabriel Singson Gabriel Singson

Gabriel “Gabby” Singson was born on March 18, 1929, in the town of Lingayen, Pangasinan. He was married to Moonyeen Singson and had three children: Carissa Singson-Mabasa, Gabriel Singson Jr., and Gerard Singson. He is a respected professional central banker who has dedicated 43 years of his life to public service.

The First Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor

Former President Fidel V. Ramos chose Singson to serve as the BSP's first governor when the cash-strapped Central Bank of the Philippines was disbanded by Congress and transformed into a new organization under the name BSP in 1993. From July 6, 1993, until July 5, 1999, he headed the BSP. During that time, he supervised several career central bankers, including Governor Amando Tetangco Jr.

The Financial Crisis

According to Malacañang, Singson established the groundwork for a more solid banking and financial sector, allowing the country to overcome the problems of the Asian financial crisis in 1997. Many local and foreign observers credit his competent management of the BSP with helping the Philippines avoid the worst effects of the economic downturn that swept the region beginning in July 1997 when a number of neighbors saw severe currency devaluations. When he left his position as head of the BSP, the Philippines had record-high gross international reserves, multi year low interest rates, single digit inflation, and a peso that was more stable than the Indonesian rupiah or the Thai baht.

Gabriel Singson’s Awards and Achievements

Singson has also had a variety of executive positions with numerous businesses. He was named Management Man of the Year by the Management Association of the Philippines in 1998.

Geronima Josefa Tomelden Pecson Geronima Josefa Tomelden Pecson

The Early Life of Geronima Pecson

Geronima Josefa Tomelden Pecson was born on December 19, 1896, in Bario Libsong, Lingayen, Pangasinan. She is the second child of Victor Lavarias Tomelden, a census inspector, and Pacita “Paz” Palisoc, one of the first Filipina teachers trained by Americans. The young Geronima completed her early education in her hometown. She earned her High School Teacher’s Certificate (HSTC) and Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degree from the University of the Philippines.

The Lifework of Geronima Pecson as Educator

Geronima Pecson first appeared on the Philippine scene in the role of a teacher. She grew and developed both personally and professionally as a teacher. Therefore, education was a big part of her life and job. Education was at the heart of her public career, from her first primary school classroom to the outstanding educational foundation she established for children.

In 1919, Geronima began her career as a classroom teacher at the Manila High School and Ermita Elementary School. After seven years, she became a teacher and later Principal of the Soler Intermediate School and the Santa Clara Primary School, later recognized as Gomez Elementary School. In 1934, she continued her career teaching at the Far Eastern College, later known as Far Eastern University and the Centro Escolar University, and became a professor in the College of Education, College of Liberal Arts, and the Graduate School of the University of Manila. At a later date, she joined the faculty of the Zamboanga Normal School as an instructor when her husband, Potenciano Pecson, a teacher, was assigned there.

The Crusade of Geronima Pecson in the 1947 Election

Before being senator, Geronima served as the personal secretary of President Jose P. Laurel and as President Manuel A. Roxas’ Assistant Executive Secretary. In the election conducted on November 11, 1947, she ran for Senator and competed against 22 contenders. She placed third among the eight elected, securing 47.8 percent votes for senator. She then became the first woman Senator of the Philippines, where she distinguished herself by authoring and/or sponsoring landmark measures adopted into laws on education, social, cultural, sports, women and youth, and agriculture, among other issues.

Geronima Pecson as Lawmaker

During her term as a senator, she headed three significant committees: the Senate Committee on Education, the Senate Committee on Health and Public Welfare, and the Joint Congressional Committee on Education. She was the prime mover of various remarkable laws, including the Free and Compulsory Education Act of 1953, the Vocational Education Act, the law allowing the development of training facilities for instructors in designated national schools of arts and trades, and the law converting the University of the Philippines' school of forestry into a college.

The Disciple of Rizal

Jose Rizal served as an intellectual and spiritual influence for Geronima Pecson as a teacher and educator. She was a fervent supporter of Riza. She certainly follows Rizalian ideas in both her personal and professional life.

For instance, Geronima Pecson's insistence on making compulsory education free up to the sixth grade level, her steadfast efforts to free the educational system of political meddling, and her campaign for greater pay and other perks for teachers are all Rizalian values, as the national hero stated when he was exiled in Dapitan.

Geronima Pecson was a passionate Rizal student. She diligently searched through Rizal's writings for nuggets of knowledge that she applied to her life and job. She rarely gave a speech or wrote an article for publication that did not include at least one quotation from Rizal.

Geronima T. Pecson’s Major Awards Geronima T. Pecson’s Major Awards and Honors and Honors

Academic Honors

Doctor of Pedagogy, honoris causa, Philippine Women’s University, 22 March 1949.

Doctor of Humanities, honoris causa, Centro Escolar University,24 March 1962.

Doctor of Humanities, honoris causa, University of the Philippines, 22 April 1979.

Doctor of Education, honoris causa, Pangasinan State University, 30 October 1986.

Doctor of Education, honoris causa, Philippine Normal College, 29 March 1988.

Most Outstanding Alumna, College of Education, University of the Philippines, 22 June 1958.

Most Distinguished Alumna, University of the Philippines, April 1977.

Librada Avelino Medal, Centro Escolar University, 18 January 1977.

Francisca Tirona Benitez Medal, Philippine Women’s University, 26 March 1983.

Phi Kappa Phi, International Honor Society, University of the Philippines Chapter, 1952.

Civic Awards

Outstanding Woman Citizen Award

Outstanding Senator Award

Aurora Aragon Quezon Medal, Philippine National Red Cross, 1959 Gold Vision Triangle, YMCA of the Philippines, 13 February 1963.

Silver Humanitarian Service Cross, Philippine National Red Cross, December 1963.

Carlos P. Romulo Award, United Nations Association of the Philippines, 10 December 1975. Tandang Sora (Melchora Aquino) Award, Himlayang Pilipino Foundation, 1976.

Outstanding Kaluyagan Award, Kalugayan nen Palaris, 20 May 1977. Tawid Award, Ilocano Heritage Foundation, 28 December 1981. Life Membership in Central Board of Directors

National Federation of Women’s Clubs 2 April 1950 League of Women Voters 19 July 1952 Girl Scouts of the Philippines, 1975

International Awards

Gran Cruz de Alfonso X el Sabio, Rank of Commander, Spain, 6 January 1953.

Award of Distinction, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Paris, France, 1989.

Government & Public Service

Awards

Presidential Merit Medal, (for services to Filipino womanhood), 3 July 1951.

Presidential Merit Medal (for services to education), 3 July 1951. Philippine Legion of Honor, Rank of Legionnaire, (for services in World War II), 8 April 1958.

Presidential Merit Medal, (for international services), 30 April 1954. Rizal Pro Patria Medal, 10 June 1961.

Posthumous Honors

Senate Resolution No. 125 dated 02 February 1998 names Senate Committee Room No.3 after Senator Geronima T. Pecson, inaugurated 04 June 1998 upon the closing of the 10th Congress.

Award of Honor for the First Woman Elected to the Senate of the Philippines by the Committee on Women, the National Centennial CommissionWomen’s Sector and the Ugnayan ng Kababaihan sa Pulitika, 25 June 1998, Manila.

Award of Honor for Services to Book Development by the National Centennial Commission-Women’s Sector, sponsored by the National Book Development Board, 25 June 1998, Angeles City.

Award of Honor for Services to the Nursing Profession by the College of Nursing, University of the Philippines Manila, on the occasion of its Golden Jubilee, 14 April 1998, Manila.

Award of Recognition for services to the Red Cross in the Philippines as member and chairman of the governing body, on the occasion of the Golden Jubilee of the Philippine National Red Cross, 8 December 1997, Manila.

Lingayen Capitol Lingayen Capitol

The Provincial Capitol of Pangasinan is a masterpiece of the Philippines' rich architectural heritage. Today, it is a national icon honored as one of the nation's classic examples of state architecture. The palace's gleaming exterior reveals tales of war, power struggles, and conflicts with natural disasters spanning a century. After Spain's military government gave the country to the U.S. through the Treaty of Paris, it became a civilian state at the start of the 20th century. This new political system quickly changed how people were governed, and architectural styles evolved roughly 300 years ago. Pangasinan was one of the first political units in the country to be put together. It already had a provincial government in 1580, which an alcalde mayor led. In 1840, the Casa Real became the center of power, but when the Americans built the Capitol 78 years later, it lost its political importance.

The Provincial Capitol was started on April 21, 1917, and finished in December 1918, during the term of the 7th governor, Daniel Maramba, known as the "Great Old Man of Pangasinan." Well-known urban planner Daniel Burnham oversaw the planning and construction of the Php400,000 structure designed by architects William Parson and Ralph Harrington Doane. This limestone and concrete tower was one of her grandest. It is built on a pedestal with steps and parterre gardens around it. Neoclassicism is the style of this building, which has a flat entrance supported by Ionic order columns, large hardwood doors, and huge windows that let in the cool breeze from the Lingayen Gulf. Upon entering, the minimalism of its outer walls is replaced with opulent volumes of sculpted arches and memorabilia-covered walls. It has sun-washed colonnades outside, and on the inside, a gilded arabesque staircase adds to the drama of light and shadow.

However, the Province of Pangasinan faced numerous obstacles before attaining its present splendor. It took a lot of damage during World War II, and typhoons hit it for years. During the time of Gov. Enrique Braganza and Gov. Victor Agbayani, it was rebuilt and then rebuilt again. Despite being an architectural masterpiece, the Provincial Capitol is a fully working government office. Here, things like board meetings and meetings with the governor take place. Ordinary individuals come and go in a leisurely palace-like manner. The Americans developed a wellplanned space around the Capitol to create an imposing classic building suitable to tropical climates.

This side of town is organized in a grid pattern, with a broad park avenue flanked by wide streets leading to the Capitol. At the entrance to its 25-hectare complex, two rows of trees, called French allées, line a sidewalk. Around the central Capitol are rebuilt historic buildings like Malong and Palaris used for local business. Behind it is the Veteran's Park, which has items from World War II. The House of Urduja also called the Governor's Residence, is right in front of it. The Capitol Resort Hotel, the Provincial Library, and other government offices are also located in the Capitol Complex, which houses Sison Auditorium. Yet the Baywalk on Lingayen Beach is one of the most popular features of the Capitol Complex. It's a beachside boulevard where folks picnic and watch the Pangasinan sunset. After undergoing extensive renovations in 2008, the Capitol regularly receives busloads of tourists. Tourists can take advantage of complimentary excursions organized by the tourism office, which include a trip to the rooftop observation deck for a bird's eye view of Lingayen. Pangasinan's provincial capitol building is a true architectural masterpiece. Besides being a

historical landmark, it is also a stunning tourist attraction in this part of the Philippines.

Place

Urduja Place Urduja

Urduja House, formerly called Urduja Palace, is where the governor of Pangasinan lives and a place for guests to stay. Since its construction in 1953 adjacent to the Pangasinan Provincial Capitol, it has served as the house of successive governors in the capital. Urduja House is named after Princess Urduja, a legendary warrior princess who lived in the 14th century in the dynastic Kingdom of Tawalisi in Pangasinan. Princess Urduja, tall and gorgeous with golden bronze skin and dark hair, wore gold and headed an army of strong women warriors excellent at sword warfare and horseback riding called Kinalakihan or Amazons. It is now a picture that embodies the magnificence of a palace where a beautiful princess resides.

In 1953, Juan de Guzman Rodriguez, the governor of Pangasinan at the time, chose the name Princess Urduja Palace as the official home of the province's governor. Under Governor Juan Rodriguez's administration, an official mansion was established for the first time because previous governors of the region were from various sections. To make travel more convenient, he ordered the construction of a governor's home directly across from the Pangasinan Provincial Capitol. He instantly gave the building the name "Urduja Palace," after the fabled Urduja, a princess of Tawilisi. It was formally known as "Urduja House" as a simplification because it was too little to be considered a palace. Its stunning interior and exterior architecture, with a fountain in the background, have made it a popular spot for engagement photos.

Limahong Channel Limahong Channel

One of Lingayen's most popular tourist destinations is the Limahong Channel, located at Sitio Bantayan, Pangapisan Norte. During the early 16th century, Chinese warlords Limahong, Lim Hong, or Lin Feng (also known as Ah Hong) constructed a tunnel in Domalandan for his escape to the China Sea and Korea, making this location historically significant. His continuous raids on Guangdong, Fujian, and Southern China ports earned him a reputation. In 1574, he was accused of making two unsuccessful attempts to dislodge the Spanish from the capital of Manila. Pirate Limahong began construction on thirty ships at his fort at the mouth of the Agno River, where all his warriors were accomplished craftsmen. The project was concluded on August 4, 1575. The Limahong Channel and Tourism Center is being groomed to be a worldclass river cruise and tourism park. House Bill 6682, sponsored by Bataoil when he was a lawmaker for the 2nd District of Pangasinan, designated the Limahong Channel as a tourism destination in 2018. The Limahong River, the beach, and the Labrador mountain sunset are

all fascinating sights. It is also an excellent area for pre-wedding or pre-nuptial photo shoots. You can get drinks and snacks at food stalls nearby.

Sison Auditorium Sison Auditorium

Sison Auditorium in Lingayen, Pangasinan, is a popular location for local or national cultural conventions and special events such as weddings, birthdays, concerts, plays, exhibitions, graduations, and government ceremonies. Locals also refer to it as the Pangasinan Cultural Center. The auditorium was constructed between 1926 and 1927, before World War II. In the 1930s, the structure was known as the Grand Provincial Auditorium of Pangasinan because it hosted operas and other cultural performances. It was then renamed after the late governor Teofilo Sison, the first person from Pangasinan to become Secretary of National Defense. The Sison Auditorium is an example of American

architecture in Pangasinan. It has a neoclassical style with arches and columns on the outside and inside of the building. Other features that make this location stand out are the state-of-the-art lighting and the magnificent chandelier from Austria. It is also located in the Capitol complex.

Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center Center

Narciso Ramos Sports Civic Center (NRSCC), also known as the Narciso Ramos Sports Center, is located along Alvear Street in Barangay Maniboc

Lingayen, Pangasinan, Philippines. It was established during the last term of Gov. Aguedo F. Agbayani (1992-1995). It was officially opened on February 11th, 1995 by His Excellency Fidel V. Ramos, and is named after Secretary Narciso Ramos, a well-known ambassador, and statesman, a proud son of Pangasinan.

The world-class sports complex is 3.5 hectares and has a grandstand that can facilitate a seat of 16,000 people together with a rubberized athletics track oval. Besides the track oval, outdoor courts such as volleyball, basketball, sepak takraw, and badminton are built. At the center is the court for javelin throw, football, and long jump. Additionally, it has an outdoor court system, a bowling alley, and a gym with a capacity of 2,500 people. There are also dorms in the complex, which can accommodate 698 people in total. There is also a restaurant and a lagoon.

The site is commonly the venue for various sports competitions, such as Palarong Pambansa in 1995 and 2012, the Philippine National Open for athletics in 2009, the National Milo Olympics in 2011, and the 2013 Regional competition of Region 1 Athletics Association (R1AA). NRSCC is also the training ground for the representative for international competitions like the Southeast Asian games in 2019. This center was also created and devoted to the Filipino youth's unwavering dedication, abilities, devotion, and fine unquestionable genius in order to capture the spirit of agreement, unity, and excellence required in our country's pursuit of self-fulfillment as outlined in the Philippines 2000. Because humanity owes its future leaders the young the best it has to offer, including a social environment

in which they may reach their full potential as Filipino leaders, it is the young who will inherit the planet. The nation's sports stars should always congregate at this facility as a light of hope for friendly and competitive competition in a joyous atmosphere. Sports are a tremendous leveler for all social classes, religions, and racial and ethnic groupings.

Lingayen Gulf Beach Club

Lingayen Gulf Beach Club

Resorts on Lingayen Beach are widely renowned for offering reasonably priced but luxurious beach villas and huts. Freshly grilled fish is available at beach hotels, resorts, and restaurants, which is ideal when you're on the sand. In Pangasinan, the

region is also a hub for fishing for shellfish, oysters, sea and freshwater fish, squids, and other delectable seafood. The Lingayen Bagoong, a specialty sauce, is another attribute of Lingayen. It is a popular sauce among both residents and visitors

During World War II, the Lingayen Gulf and its entire municipality were employed as strategic locations, and the long beach functioned as an attack jet landing strip. The American Forces used this location as one of their landing zones on January 9, 1945, which helped to liberate Northern Luzon.

The bay is crucial to the province of Pangasinan since it served as a strategically important battleground between American and Japanese forces during World War II. On December 22, 1941, the Japanese 14th Army, led by Lieutenant General Masaharu Homma, made landings on the eastern shores of the gulf at Agoo, Caba, Santiago, and Bauang. There, they engaged the defenders, a

poorly-equipped group of primarily American and Filipino troops, in a number of minor skirmishes before successfully invading and occupying the gulf. General Douglas MacArthur gave the order to leave Luzon and head to Bataan after the defeat. After the Lingayen Gulf Landings, the gulf remained under Japanese control for the following three years. A very important historical event that formed the basis of our identity as Pangasinense is commemorated on this seashore. General Lloyd Wheaton landed his soldiers here on the 7th day of November 1898 to formally impede General Emilio Aguinaldo's retreat, and General of the Army Douglas MacArthur launched his battle to free Luzon from Japanese colonization on the 9th day of January, the year 1945.

Another significant event that happened in our history occurred in this place. General Carlos P. Romulo also launched his troops on the 10th day of January 1945. One day after General Douglas

MacArthur began campaigning for the freedom of Luzon. While, General Romulo, a resident of Komisyonado sa Estados Unidos that is also General MacArthur’s “ayuda-de-campo”.

In the presence of General Romulo, the Papal Nuncio, the Ambassadors, Governor Aguedo F. Agbayani (Official Mission Abroad), Acting Governor Porfirio V. Sison (Committee Chairman), Acting Vice Governor Agerico S. Rosario, Board Members Alfonso C. Bince Jr. and Arturo M. Padua, the plaque was unveiled on March 15th, 1975 (Diplomatic Corps Day).

In the presence of General Romulo, the Papal Nuncio, the Ambassadors, Governor Aguedo F. Agbayani (Official Mission Abroad), Acting Governor Porfirio V. Sison (Committee Chairman), Acting Vice Governor Agerico S. Rosario, Board Members Alfonso C. Bince Jr. and Arturo M. Padua, the plaque was unveiled on March 15th, 1975 (Diplomatic Corps Day).

In the presence of General Romulo, the Papal Nuncio, the Ambassadors, Governor Aguedo F. Agbayani (Official Mission Abroad), Acting Governor Porfirio V. Sison (Committee Chairman), Acting Vice Governor Agerico S. Rosario, Board Members Alfonso C. Bince Jr. and Arturo M. Padua, the plaque was unveiled on March 15th, 1975 (Diplomatic Corps Day).

There is still a very important part of Lingayen Beach Gulf Club which is the Lingayen Bay walk. Here you can find serenity while being amused by the beauty of the beach and hearing the very calming noise of the waves on the sea. There are also benches that you can sit upon while relaxing, trees that will provide you shade from the sun, and also an ambiance that will make you feel loved, falling in love and making love. The lingayen bay walk was known as a romantic place wherein you can here create memories with your loved ones that you want to keep forever. In addition to what had been said, this place is very

great for family bonding. There are cottages or wide fields where you can have a picnic and have fun. Kids can also swim because it is safe as it is guarded by the life coast guard which could rescue them every time someone is in danger.

Lingayen Airport Lingayen Airport

During World War II, the Lingayen Airfield, also known as "Lingayen Aerodrome" and "Lingayen Field," was parallel to the shore and ran roughly east to west along Lingayen Gulf. The United States or the Philippine Army built the airstrip before the war broke out. During the Japanese annexation of the Philippines, on December 25, 1941, Japanese troops landed in Lingayen Gulf and took control of the airport. Japanese military and naval planes based in Formosa and Japan frequently used the airstrip.

Epiphany or Our Lord Parish Epiphany or Our Lord Parish Church Church

In the municipality of Lingayen in the province of Pangasinan, one of the oldest historic churches in the area is the co cathedral church known as Epiphany of Our Lord Parish and formerly Three Kings Parish Church by the Augustinian Spanish missionaries. Along with the Saint Dominic de Guzman Parish Church in San Carlos City, the church was founded in 1587 and given to the Dominicans in 1740. Filipino priests ran the parish from 1900 to 1933 until the Columban missionaries came to the province.

American forces' 1945 bombing of Poblacion during World War II caused substantial damage to the church. It resulted in the collapse of centuries-old bells. In later years, with the assistance of donations from community minded residents, they replaced them with brand-new ones. The renovated church reopened in 1965, but an earthquake damaged it in 1990 and required

additional repairs. The parish received the name "Epiphany of Our Lord Parish" during the first Team Ministry, with Rev. Fr. John Palinar serving as moderator. The massive church was built with mudbrick, and the design reflects Spanish colonial architecture. The Rv. Fr. Miguel Aparicio created the interior, filled with works of religious art made of metal and wood. The original retablo (a devotional painting) is currently on display inside the church as a replica. A few vast tower bells from the 19th century that were smashed by American bombardment are also on display outside. The church's 45-foot-tall bell tower is among the best and best-preserved in Pangasinan.

Casa Real Casa Real

During the Spanish regime in the Philippines, a historical landmark in the province of Pangasinan was built, commonly known as Casa Real, representing the government of the Spaniards in the Philippines. This place is a living testimony to the lavish, illustrious, and sorrowful events of the municipality and the province. This location is in the Barangay Poblacion municipality

of Lingayen, Pangasinan. The Casa Real served first as an elementary school in the 1930s and later as the Court of First Instance seat after that. After World War II, the place survived the ravages brought then later used to house different government offices, even the Sangguniang Bayan of Lingayen town. Casa Real became a gallery of Pangasinan that allows the Pangasinene to treasure the history and continues to the next generations.

Mac Arthur Landing Marker Mac Arthur Landing Marker

A few-walk away from the Lingayen beach is the MacArthur Landing Marker. The open museum has antique photographs, many important historical details, and minor artifacts. Also, five aircraft and tanks are on exhibit in memory of our fallen soldiers. It is a powerful reminder of the battles our country and ancestors faced.

Dr. Ricardo Jose, a professor and historian at the University of the Philippines-Diliman asserts that General Douglas MacArthur first set foot on the Blue Beach of San Fabian in the eastern part of the Lingayen Gulf at 2:15 p.m. on January 9, 1945. This disproved claims that MacArthur did so

on the coasts of Dagupan City or Lingayen town.

The place and its open museum serve as a reminder that the landing was a significant historical event because it marked the beginning of the liberation of Luzon Island on that afternoon when MacArthur and his troops landed on the coast.

Ramos Ancestral House Ramos Ancestral House

The ancestral home of former President

Fidel Ramos has developed to be one of the tourist attractions in his home province of Pangasinan. It is located at Primicias Street, Lingayen, Pangasinan. Some furniture and family heirlooms were preserved and are displayed today inside the house/museum. The current building is a replica of the old ancestral home of the Ramos family, which was destroyed during World War II and reconstructed by the Ramos Foundation. It is thought to be the exact spot of the family house of Narciso Ramos, his wife Angela Valdez, and their

children Fidel, Leticia, and Gloria. Furthermore, the former president was born here, where he also spent his childhood.

Lingayen view Park, Veterans Lingayen view Park, Veterans

Park Memorial Park

Memorial

In Lingayen, Pangasinan, a park called Veterans Memorial Park honors those who served in the military during World War II. It is located behind the provincial capitol and next to Lingayen Gulf Beach. In 1995, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Lingayen Gulf Landing, the park was created. As a site of World War II devastation and where General MacArthur and his soldiers landed toward the end of the fight for Luzon's freedom, the gulf next to the park is now considered a historical landmark.

The Lingayen Gulf Landing Shrine, which was built in honor of the Filipino fighters who protected our country during the gulf landing in the town, is the park's main attraction. The park itself houses a variety of artifacts that depict historical events that occurred at the location during World War II. Two Cessna airplanes and an air fighter, which were the genuine aircraft used in the conflict, are displayed on the front lawn.

Your paragrIn every town in our country, there should always be a plaza. Plaza de Lingayen showcased its pride which is the Lingayen bagoong. Lingayen bagoong is one of the best bagoong shrimp in the country. Bagoong paste made from sweet shrimp in Pangasinan, delicious. A sautéed shrimp paste known as bagoong is created from tiny fermented shrimp (alamang). It can be made from pork, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and onions. Either an entire dish or a condiment can be made from it. The bagoong flavour is the foundation of many Filipino recipes.

Delicacy Delicacy

Bagoong Bagoong

If there is one delicacy truly representative of us being Filipinos, no one can deny that bagoong will qualify as one. Bagoong was truly one of the most unique delicacies in the country which was even once described as “the stinky secret weapon of Filipino food.” In history, it was even described as something we eat when “it has started to rot and stink” but our national hero, Jose Rizal, says otherwise. He was also sure that every Filipino and everyone who “have eaten it and tasted it know that it neither is nor should be rotten.” Bagoong or fish paste and fish sauce has been a long part of our history but the earliest known records of its production were from ancient Greece between the 4-3rd centuries B.C. There are also other variations in other countries but in the Philippines, chances are your bagoong is from the capital town of Pangasinan, Lingayen.

Bagoong Bagoong

Bagoong has also been a long part of Lingayen’s culture and economy. Its production is said to have started in the 1940s when Lingayen was the primary center of commerce due to the Chinese community. It has also been one of the town’s identifiers – the bagoong capital of the Philippines. One can say that bagoong was the perfect product for the town with it being a gulf known for several fish harvests.

Bagoong Bagoong

It also compliments well with the abundance of salt in Pangasinan with the province being known as panag asinan or where salt comes from. These are basically the ingredients one would need to produce bagoong. There are also claims that the salinity of air in Lingayen also adds to it but, the true key ingredient is the hard work and patience in making it as bagoong takes time to ferment.

Bagoong Bagoong

When they say good things come to those who wait, you know the right thing to do is really to wait. There are countless ways to enjoy your bagoong as simple as it is a dip to mangoes or freshly grilled Bangus. It is also used for a widely known Filipino dish, pinakbet. It also made waves with a twist in the popular lechon with a local lechon maker from Lingayen experimenting with using bagoong on lechon. A Pinay chef says that bagoong is so essential because it provides that umami and if it’s missing, it’s noticeable because it’s the X factor in our food. That captures the very essence of bagoong, it may not be the star but still shines like one.

Bagoong Bagoong

But the good thing now is that you really don’t have to wait in order to get your bagoong as it is usually available in your local grocery store. It has contributed significantly in the economy of Lingayen and thus, it was adopted as their official one town one product which is also celebrated during an annual festival based on Municipal Ordinance No. 6, series of 2012 authored by Councilor Judy Vargas. Before, the local bagoong used to be sold only in milk cans or “litsi” in wet markets but are now packaged in bottles and pouches and are already exported to Korea, the United States of America, Canada, and Saudi Arabia.

Bagoong Bagoong

What others call stinky simply smells like home. It is definitely not an understatement to say that every Filipino household may have a bagoong stored in their pantries. Bagoong is more than just a product for people from Lingayen, it’s an experience shared with family and friends. Bagoong has helped cultivate that feeling of comfort in our home away from home. That is why when you are in Lingayen, you are not just in any other town for somehow you will always remember your home.

Bukayo Bukayo

Who could resist the sweet, traditional Filipino delicacy known as bukayo? Lingayen, the Pangasinan province's capital, is where the bukayo originally originated. The main ingredient of this delicacy is coconut, a crop that grows in the Philippines besides corn and rice. Since coconut can be used in both desserts and savory foods, it is a common ingredient in many dishes. Whereas bukayo is usually offered as a dessert after meals, you can still eat it at any time, and it can pass as anyone’s comfort food.

Bukayo Bukayo

This Bukayo, which is typically enjoyed by elderly people, has been offered since the time of the Spanish. Bukayo was a common delicacy that the Filipinos liked to serve during their colonization. The Spanish term for this was "Conserva de Coco."

Bukayo Bukayo

This delicacy is prepared with a variety of textures. Some are hard, like candies, while others are smooth, created with sticky coconut and caramelized syrup. The last method is made by stir frying coconut with sugar. These many variants might not be suitable for everyone; it all depends on your preferences .

Even though this dish is delicious on its own, adding flavor is not a terrible idea. Biko bukayo, bitsu - bitsu bukayo, bukayo panda de coco, bukayo with pandan, bukayo ilonggo style, bukayo with condensed milk, bukayo in cassava suman, bukayo in palitaw pangasinense style, and bukayo are other tasty bukayo variations and recipes.

Fiestas & Festivals Fiestas & Festivals

BAGOONG BAGOONG BAGOONG Festival Festival

Bagoong Festival Bagoong Festival

Widespread belief in Lingayen holds that bagoong was brought to the area by early Chinese settlers. The mayor stated that Lingayen had to market its bagoong sector internationally to increase demand for the good. "Lingayen Bagoong" is already being exported to nations with thriving Filipino populations, including the United States, Saudi Arabia, and several regions of Europe.

In the Philippines, bagoong, made from fish paste, is often used as a seasoning. It can be used as a seasoning for traditional Filipino dishes like pinakbet (a vegetable dish flavored with bagoong) and binagoongan (pork cubes cooked in bagoong), as a dipping sauce for grilled bangus, tilapia, tortang talong (grilled eggplant), and grilled meat, or as a gift for relatives both in the Philippines and abroad.

ue to its superior flavor and aroma, bagoong produced in Pangasinan, particularly in the provincial capital of Lingayen, has long been recognized as the best bagoong in the country. The

local bagoong producers perseverance and creativity, as well as the endless hours of testing and numerous months of fermentation to create that particular Lingayen bagoong brand, are responsible for its fantastic taste and aroma.

In April 2011, the first Bagoong Festival was held in Pangapisan Norte. The neighboring bagoong-producing village of Maniboc joined it. As part of Lingayen's fiesta honoring its patron, the festival was eventually moved to January.

PISTAY PISTAY PISTAY Dayat Dayat

Pistay Dayat Pistay Dayat

Pistay Dayat started in 1970. It derives from the words pista, a derivative of the Spanish word fiesta, which means festival, and dayat, which in the Pangasinense language means sea. People from nearby towns and fishing villages used to frolic on the beachfront along Lingayen Gulf, characterized by a long, appealing stretch of shorelines. These gatherings of families interested in summertime beach activities served as the inspiration for the modern Pistay Dayat.

Every first of May, the province of Pangasinan hosts the Pistay Dayat festival, which celebrates culture, the environment, and thanksgiving.

It is also known as the Seaside Festival, the Festival of the Sea, and the Sea Festival. It is a weeks-long, province-wide celebration that fishing communities celebrate as a time of summer thanksgiving for the annual sea harvests they have made. It also serves as a platform for sustainable growth, resource management, and environmental preservation.

Pistay Dayat has a week's worth of events planned, some of which start in the first week of April and go through the first few days of May.

There are numerous exhibits and competitions, including singing, dancing, talent shows, karaoke, boat painting, and sand sculpting. There will also be concerts, music festivals, fire dances, comedies, acoustic performances, and Zumba. In the categories of artillery, basketball, beach flag football, beach volleyball, boxing, golf, motorbike, paragliding, triathlon, and shortest, sporting events can either be contests or exhibitions.

AGEWNA AGEWNA AGEWNA

Pangasinan Pangasinan

Agew na Pangasinan Agew na Pangasinan

Agew na Pangasinan, also known as "Pangasinan Day," is an annual celebration of the entire province of Pangasinan in commemoration of its founding anniversary. Pangasinan comes from the word "Panag-asinan," which means a place of "asin" (salt) or salt-making since the province is well known for producing rock salt. It has 44 towns and four cities, comprising six districts in the province. Its language, called Pangasinan, is considered to be one of the most widely used in the country. Its origins can be traced to the Austronesian languages of Asia and are closer to Ibaloi, according to the Provincial Information Office.

n old memorandum states that the province used to commemorate the anniversary of the late Eugenio Perez, the first Speaker of the House to come from Pangasinan, by celebrating on November 13. In 1990, the entire province was ordered to observe Perez's birthday as a special, annual non-working holiday. However, in 2010, former Governor Amado T. Espino Jr. issued two executive orders creating a research and study committee. That will be in charge of determining the precise date of Pangasinan Carter and appointing members therein. The committee was headed by Atty. Gonzalo Duque, a former vice governor and president of Lyceum Northwestern University.

it is made up of provincial government departments, researchers, media representatives, and people from various historical associations. After conducting a study, the commission came up with two historical events. [1] April 5, 1572, was the date when Pangasinan was established as an encomienda by the Spanish colonial government, and [2] is the year 1580, when the province of Pangasinan gained official status as a separate political unit.

Pangasinan's official foundation day is April 5, 1580, according to a resolution passed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in 2010. Pangasinenses celebrated its first Foundation Day on April 5, 2010, commemorating 430 years of the sociocultural development of Pangasinan with a strong sense of self and pride in their heritage.

PANGASINANTOURISM PANGASINANTOURISM PANGASINANTOURISM

Month Celebration Month Celebration

Pangasinan Tourism Month Celebration Pangasinan Tourism Month Celebration

Every year, in September, there is a celebration called "Tourism Month" to highlight how vital tourism is to the Pangasinan economy. The province of Pangasinan is the third-largest province in the whole Philippine Archipelago. There is no denying that Pangasinan is one of the best tourist destinations because of its long stretches of white, sandy beaches, lush hills, spectacular terrain, caves and waterfalls, old Hispanic churches, miraculous locations for devotees, and a vast coastline for fishing, water sports, or strolls along the Lingayen beach where one can see the famous Philippine sunset.

Pangasinan has numerous tourist spots that are tranquil places for you to explore. A lot of foods to try on exotic, seafood, sticky rice, and many more. Seek out the amazing beaches of the province, including the famous "white sand beach of the north," Patar Beach of Bolinao, Bagbag Beach, the "little Batanes" of Sual, and far more. There are plenty of activities you can try on land, in the air, or on water. You can try a long road trip to Daang Kalikasan of Mangatarem, boat trips and island hopping to Hundred Islands of Alaminos City, or be free in the air through the longest zipline of Balungao, and explore some caves of the Province.

Because of its natural beauty, cleanliness, politeness, and hospitality of the people, tourists may love to come and revisit the place. The goal of tourism month is to publicize and highlight the island's hidden beauty. In Pangasinan, exciting activities are planned and executed at various tourist destinations. It is responsive to World Tourism Day which takes place every September 27.

Fiestas in Lingayen Fiestas in Lingayen

The town is the site of a variety of festivities, including the Bagoong Festival, which promotes the "One Town-One Product" (OTOP), known as the tastiest salted fish paste, and is held every third week of January. Next is the Pista'y Dayat (the beach festival), a much-anticipated summer event that is packed with exciting activities such as the Banca Parada (boat parade), sand sculpture competitions, beach volleyball, and Palarong Pinoy, held every May 1. Another is the Agew Na Pangasinan, which is celebrated on April 5th as a local holiday to commemorate the province's "birthday," and the Lingayen Town Fiesta, which is held on the first Sunday of January in honor of the Three Kings, the town's patron saint. Thus, this celebration is sometimes called the "Feast of the Epiphany" or the "Feast of the Three Kings." Not only those but there are also a lot more fiestas.

Did You Did You Know? Know?

That Lingayen has a significant contribution to the country during World War 2?

The Lingayen Gulf Landings was a World War II Allied amphibious operation in the Philippines. During World War II, the Lingayen Gulf and its entire municipality were employed as strategic locations, and the long beach functioned as an attack jet landing strip. The American Forces used this location as one of their landing zones which helped to liberate Northern Luzon.

On January 6, 1945, a sizable Allied force under Admiral Jesse B. Oldendorf, who is well known for defeating a Japanese presence in the Battle of Leyte Gulf during the war, began to approach the shores of Lingayen. General of the Army Douglas MacArthur launched his battle to free Luzon from Japanese colonization on the 9th day of January, the year 1945. General Carlos P. Romulo also launched his troops on the 10th day of January 1945. One day after General Douglas MacArthur began campaigning for the freedom of Luzon. While, General Romulo, a resident of Komisyonado sa Estados Unidos that is also General MacArthur’s “ayuda-de-campo”. For three days, US Navy and Royal Australian Navy warships bombarded and hunched Japanese points along the coast of Lingayen from their position in Lingayen Gulf.

The primary intent of taking Lingayen, in addition to gaining control of Mindoro, was to smash the surrounding Imperial Japanese defenses in Luzon, enabling the Allies to support further operations against Manila. By taking Lingayen, they could also deny supplies to the Japanese.

Did You Did You Know? Know?

That the strongest earthquake that struck Lingayen occurred in 1990?

devastating earthquake of magnitude 7.8 struck Central and Northern Luzon 32 years ago, on July 16, 1990, at 4:26 p.m. According to the

physiographic settings of affected areas, there were 4 general types of sites vulnerable to liquefaction during those times, and these are (1) back-swamps in Gerona, Pura, Ramos, and Paniqui in Tarlac; (2) river channels and point-bars in Dagupan City, San Carlos, and Malasiqui, Pangasinan; and (3) sands in Agoo and Sto. Tomas, P. Union; and (4) deltas in Aringay, La Union, Binmaley, and Lingayen, Pangasinan.

lthough it has been confirmed that these areas are far from the epicenter of the earthquake, the devastating and disastrous effects of it on the land are more severe than in the closer area. One thousand two hundred people were killed overall in the impacted area, infrastructure was damaged, and this earthquake is still regarded as one of the most damaging ones ever recorded in the Philippines.

Epilogue Epilogue

Appendix Appendix

Glossary Glossary

Bibliography Bibliography

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Index Index

Author Biography Author Biography

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