Baybay Bites conducted in partnership with Kiku San, Akxel Gas, Regional News Group – Luzon, and The Pangasinan Nomad.
DAGUPAN, PANGASINAN — Stove ablaze and elements seasoned to perfection, Pangasinan cuisine took over the limelight at Baybay Bites, a digital culinary showcase held today, April 29, at Kiku San, Dagupan City.
In honor of Filipino Food Month and Pista’y Dayat, the Pangasinan Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) sought to promote the seafood and coastal dishes of Pangasinan in partnership with local company Akxel Gas, and Kiku San—an authentic Japanese restaurant with a developed affinity for seafood local to the province.
PTCAO Head Ms. Malu Amor-Elduayan hosts Baybay Bites.
With PTCAO Head Ms. Malu Amor-Elduayan as host, a live cooking demonstration was led by Kiku San Executive Chef Hanz Feliciano who skillfully prepared seven (7) Pangasinan dishes made of products native to the province—but with a unique, Japanese twist.
Kiku San Chefs demonstrate uninque ways of cooking Dagupan bangus.
One dish incorporated the staple product of Lingayen—the bagoong (fermented fish or shrimp paste)—in its fried rice and crispy pork belly recipe. Meanwhile, Dagupan’s iconic bangus (milkfish or ‘sabahi’ in Japanese) served as the defining ingredient of the six remaining dishes.
The sabahi ceviche took the famous kilawén recipe to a new level by incorporating rice wine. Making the sabahi abura shoyu introduced a distinct way of preparing bangus by marinating and then pouring a boiling oil mixture over the fillet. The sabahi croquettes and sabahi aonori showed different ways of turning crispy fried bangus into spherical and tempura-like dishes with hondashi (Japanese powder made from bonito fish) and aonori (edible seaweed). Meanwhile, the sabahi curry and sabahi soba proved that products local to Pangasinan can blend perfectly with global recipes.
Pangasinan products and intnernational flavors converge in seven dishes.
For the opportunity to expand their culinary expertise, seven local food and tourism-related establishments attended the event. Namely, these are: Abong ni Tio Berto, Mesa de Amor, El Jardine, Jem’s Cuisine, Tummy Teasers Food House and Bakeshop, and Ragtime Villas through Ms. Michelle Lioanag.
Not only did these establishments gain valuable culinary insights in elevating the ways through which local products are used, prepared, and presented in dishes; they were also given the opportunity to establish and foster professional relationships.
RNG-Luzon interviews Ms. Amor-Elduayan.
Exclusively for Baybay Bites, the PTCAO also partnered with Regional News Group (RNG)-Luzon to document and broadcast the event on public television. The event will be featured in an episode of ‘Ganda Mo, Pangasinan!’ which will air next week.
The Pangasinan Nomad and Emi Emis are welcomed to Baybay Bites.
Baybay Bites was also done in partnership with Mr. Rodolfo Manandeg Jr.—widely known online for highlighting the province as The Pangasinan Nomad. Alongside Manandeg was social media influencer Ms. Emmy Rozaine Estrada or Emi Emis, to further promote the gastronomic experience that only Pangasinan can offer.
In an interview by RNG-Luzon, Ms. Amor-Elduayan invited people from within and outside the borders of Pangasinan to visit the province and experience its flavors first-hand. “… have a taste of our famous, tastiest bangus [and] other local goodies.”
Baybay Bites is evidence of the capacity of Pangasinan to connect with its Southeast Asian neighbors, and expand its culinary horizons into the international scene—fully honoring this year’s Filipino Food Month theme: ‘Connected by Taste: The Filipino Food in the Flavors of ASEAN.’
𝐀 𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐮𝐧𝐰𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐟 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. Thousands witnessed history as the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag welcomed the hundredth year since its Canonical Coronation in 1926.
From household televisions, to handheld devices, to the very blessed churchgrounds of the Basilica—Marian devouts and believers alike watched on April 22, 2026, as they relived the past in a series of consecrated affairs.
The Centennial Coronation as broadcasted through a screen in the Manaoag Open Plaza.
After six years of thorough preparation, the event was officially inaugurated through a re-enactment of the Papal coronation, under the guidance of the Archbishop Charles John Brown, Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines.
Assisting Brown were President Bongbong Marcos, and Archbishop Socrates B. Villegas of the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan; alongside basilica rector Rev. Father Felix Legaspi, and Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera who secured the divine halo of the image; and Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula who crowned the Child Jesus.
Once recrowned in a solemn conduction, the church finally opened its doors to the people for public veneration of the image of Our Lady who had been cloaked in crystals and exquisite embroidery—the pinnacle of divine elegance, and evidence of the deep care and respect that went into the preparations.
PTCAO offers assistance to devotees in Manaoag.
Meanwhile, the Pangasinan Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) expressed its support to the occasion by providing free water, directional guidance, and informational assistance to the local devotees and pilgrims who came to Manaoag to witness the historic event in person.
A High Mass, presided by Socrate Villegas, was held later in the afternoon which saw a sharp influx of devotees that filled the basilica and its surrounding areas to full capacity. What reverence was shown to the Blessed Mother, was clearly reflected in the edifice as well in its freshly painted features, ornate embellishments, and atmospheric lighting.
Through a profound homily, Villegas recounted the tale of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s encounter with the angel—highlighting the unmoving faith she had in the Lord’s plans amidst uncertainties. Villegas called for the people to listen to the voice that comes not from what is heard in the mind or felt in the heart, but the voice in form of the Blessed Mother whose existence brought the Christ to life—she whose voice is that of His.
This imploration translated well into the much-awaited procession, which was led by the image of Our Lady herself, followed by the figures of other saints.
Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag leads the procession.
Meanwhile, bands and dancers reflected the jovial facet of the occasion through accompanying performances.
Performers accompany the march.
Amidst the heat and whirlwind affairs of the day, pilgrims and devotees—thousands more in numbers—were steadfast in their commitment to the Blessed Mother, following through with the march in droves through the town of Manaoag.
Devotees show their veneration by joining the procession.
By night, the procession ended with a dazzling lightshow, praises, and songs that echoed prayers for guidance from the Blessed Mother who, for centuries, had been calling the people to her son, Jesus. And the world watched with bated breaths as the divine image of Our Lady finally returned to her throne at the Minor Basilica.
As the celebration came to an end, devotees returned home, carrying with them not just memories—but the everlasting voice of the Mother who calls for love and compassion to reign in their hearts.
For the centennial anniversary of the pontifical crowning of the Blessed Virgin Mary is more than an event.
It is the symbol of a century of unwavering hope, profound faith, and fervent veneration—spoken through praises, whispered in prayers, and felt through her maternal image.
Pangasinan Governor Ramon "Mon-Mon" V. Guico III delivers his State of the Province Address 2026.
Pangasinan Governor Ramon “Mon-Mon” V. Guico III delivers his State of the Province Address 2026.
LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—Governor Ramon “Mon-Mon” V. Guico III delivered his fourth State of the Province Address (SOPA) this April 8, 2026 at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Session Hall, Capitol Building in Lingayen, Pangasinan.
With the central theme “Strong Political Will and Vision Driving Pangasinan’s Progress: Mas Handa, Mas Matatag, at Mas Matibay ang Paninindigan,” the report focused on the following points: infrastructure and tourism, employment and education, socioeconomic performance, agriculture, disaster risk reduction, social services, healthcare, and good governance. For this year’s State of the Province Address, the speech was written independently by a team that usually works alongside the governor, as he wanted an unbiased view of the state of Pangasinan under his administration.
Among these key areas, healthcare evidently takes precedence under Gov. Guico’s administration. Citing the need for good health programs for a stable state of economy, he implemented free hospitalization across all the 14 provincial hospitals in Pangasinan. “It’s what you call universal health care—and it’s a law,” said Gov. Guico who is confident that this program is “very very much sustainable” as there is already a ₱3.1 billion budget allocated for this, drawn from 20% (₱1.6 billion) of the province’s annual budget (₱8.3 billion) and the provision (₱3.1 billion) from Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth).
There has been a staggering increase of inpatients and outpatients among these provincial hospitals, showing that more Pangasinenses are receiving healthcare and are being cured of diseases before they become life-threatening. In 2024, there was a recorded number of 114,602 inpatients and 521,814 outpatients; meanwhile, in 2025, there had been 120,069 inpatients and 657,976 outpatients.
As further proof, Pangasinan was hailed as a national health champion by the Department of Health in 2025, and brought home 5 awards—namely: Best Local Investment Plan for Health Implementer (1st Place), UHC Achievement Award (2nd Place), Palbayani Award for Malaria-Free Province, Palbayani Award for Immunization Champions, and 100% Swab-Compliance Award for Measles Surveillance.
The importance of infrastructures for different uses was also highlighted. In his speech, Gov. Guico emphasized that foundations are vital for the development and future of Pangasinan. A notable example is the administration’s Capitol Redevelopment Project—particularly, the 11-storey Pangasinan Government Tower which is planned to hold more provincial offices and is now 44.41% accomplished. With a base depth of 60m, Gov. Guico emphasized the significance of a strong foundation, not just for safety, but for the security of Pangasinan’s future.
“You don’t see it now … but we are building for the future. We ensure [na] matibay ang pundasyon, na yung eleven-storey will hold up … that [building] symbolizes the greatness of the province … We lay the foundation of a progressive and sustainable governance today … in order to ensure a secure future for Pangasinan.”
Other features of the Capitol Redevelopment Project mentioned in the speech are the reflection pool and dancing fountains which Gov. Guico defends as the only free attraction site for the people. The idea of constructing an esplanade in Estanza was also mentioned in passing, further proving Gov. Guico’s plan to further accessible tourism to local and non-local tourists.
“Let’s make this Capitol Complex safe and walkable,” said Gov. Guico.
Education is another important venture in the eyes of the Guico Administration, as evidenced by the establishment and funding of the Pangasinan Polytechnic College (PPC) which provides free education as, per Gov. Guico: “no one should be left out.” This project, initiated under the administration, is targeted to admit 700 students in August 2026, on top of the 1,200 scholars it already houses in the present.
This endeavor of free education goes hand-in-hand with the desire to boost employment. In his speech, Gov. Guico proudly announced that the Center for Lifelong Learning (CeLL) under the PPC, which aims to produce skilled workers, has already produced 311 graduates in electrical installation—80% of which are now employed. In total, the administration has, so far, recorded a total of 10,204 Pangasinenses who are currently employed locally and abroad.
In terms of agriculture, the Gov. Guico reminisced how his administration strived to revive the second largest salt farm in the Philippines located in Bolinao. After reopening in 2023, the farm—now dubbed as the Pangasinan Salt Center (PSC)—has since seen a rise in salt production. From making ₱10,379,919 in sales in 2024, sales increased to ₱23,248,445 sales from producing 8,100 metric tons of salt.
Aside from the PSC, the Bangus Breeding and Hatchery Center in Bolinao was also recently established to boost local bangus production. And the three provincial warehouses with multi-purpose drying pavements—located in the municipalities of Bugallon, Sta. Barbara, and San Quintin—are nearing completion.
Gov. Guico admitted that the energy crisis had been unexpected; and while there was no direct preemptive preparation, Pangasinan had been prepared through the investment and establishment of infrastructures—as well as by keeping basic services open and furthering its environmental efforts, such as the green canopy program which has already planted around 500,000 seedlings out of the goal to plant 1 million trees.
In response to the travelling issues brought forth by the unforeseen energy crisis, Gov. Guico proposed harnessing the power of the sun to fuel mass transportation. During SOPA 2026, Gov. Guico revealed his administration’s newest, “very ambitious” endeavor: the Electric Vehicle Bus Rapid Transit (EV-BRT). This project features 12 meter, 100% electric buses with low floors and a 40-person sitting and 40-person standing capacity. These vehicles will be cruising the outer lanes of what are currently 5 proposed travel routes passing through selected Central and Eastern Pangasinan municipalities in which strategically-located bus stops will be erected. With 5 units arriving within the next 4-5 months, Gov. Guico hopes to launch the EV-BRT within the year.
Gov. Guico showcases a miniature of the bus model for the EV-BRT program.
These accomplishments, Gov. Guico says, are rooted in the hard work of the 7,125 provincial employees from the capitol to the 14 provincial hospitals. He also gave thanks to “the continued trust of our kababayans. Lahat ng ito ay hindi lang dahil sa galing, ngunit dahil sa isang gobyernong may puso… Tapat at matibay na paninindigan sa ating probinsya… Ang serbisyong magaling ay magpapatuloy. Maraming salamat po, Pangasinan—Ang galing.”
This public affair, held at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Session Hall, was attended in-person by Vice Gov, Hon. Mark Ronald Lambino and a handful of district board members—namely: Hon. Apolonia Bacay, Hon. Napoleon Fontelera Jr.; Hon. Shiela Marie Baniqued, Hon. Vici Ventanilla, Hon. Marinor De Guzman, Hon. Jerry Rosario, Hon. Rose Apaga, Hon. Nicholi Jan Louie Sison, Hon. Noel Fernando Bince, Jr., and Hon. Martin Raul Sison II. Other mentioned attendees include Provincial Legal Officer Atty. Baby Ruth Torre, Provincial Assessor Atty. Geronimo Abad, the Provincial Accounting Office OIC, and Congressman Mark Cojuangco.
Aside from the in-house audience, the event also saw an influx of virtual attendees—from other provincial offices and local government units—via zoom. Meanwhile, the public had the option to watch through a Facebook livestream which lasted nearly two hours and remains accessible as of writing. This unique “hybrid” mode was implemented in light of the global energy crisis.
/IMTI
Photos: Pangasinan Information and Media Relations Office (PIMRO)
Lingayen, Pangasinan—Pangasinan has always been a place of warm breezes and beautiful sceneries. The province, rich in tourism, is home to thousands of tourism-related employees, all working together to continue the legacy our province has. Trainings such as the Magnayon: Pangasinan Tourism Frontliner Training, organized in partnership with the Department of Tourism – Region I, help to maintain the standard of service that the Province of Pangasinan aspires to have, which is “to serve the best way we can.”
The said seminar was conducted over two days to allow emphasis on certain topics and points to cater of each department. Day 1 participants included employees from the Provincial Governor’s Office Front Desk, Capitol Resort Hotel, and Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office Day 2 was attended by personnel from the Provincial Security under the General Services Office. The seminar garnered 83 participants in total—40 for day 1 and 43 for day 2.
PTCAO’s very own Department Head, Ms. Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan, started both days with her opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of participating in trainings such as this, especially for employees working in the Capitol Complex. She also reminded participants of the core values upheld by the Provincial Government.
Alongside her, Mr. Dennis V. Detalo, Regional Trainer for the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE), served as the resource speaker for both days. Mr. Detalo discussed 4 modules under the FBSE training and shared his knowledge from years of service as a fellow in the Tourism Industry.
This collaboration with DOT–Region I reinforces the province’s commitment to raising the quality of service in its tourism sector through standardized, nationally recognized training programs.
The training signifies the provincial government’s constant strive for improved services, aligning with the on-going redevelopment of the Capitol Complex, which aims to provide world-class facilities for its people. As PTCAO Department Head Ma’am Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan said, “The experience in itself is the memories we build with our guests, and service providers are who give this.”
Lingayen, Pangasinan—The long-standing gaps in tourist comfort and safety has finally ended with the recent inauguration of the first-ever Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Pangasinan on February 5, 2026, at the scenic Capitol Beach Park, Lingayen, Pangasinan.
The culmination of the Tourist Rest Area (TRA), a flagship tourism infrastructure project of the Department of Tourism (DOT), Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), and the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, is central to the provincial tourism strategy.
“‘Yung Tourist Rest Area po na ito ay magbibigay ng pagkakataon sa ating mga turista na pumunta sa Pangasinan, stay a little bit longer, and to come back again and again, for they understand that we care for their welfare and we care for our tourists… We hope that this collaboration can only bring more livelihood opportunities for your province,” said Department of Tourism Secretary Cristina Garcia-Frasco. Through the TRA, DOT ensures that basic yet essential tourism services are available, consistent, and dignified across key travel corridors.
Governor Ramon V. Guico III proudly expressed pride and excellence with the establishment of the TRA. “This will really complement the massive development of the Provincial Capitol Complex… The Tourist Rest Area, [or] TRA, is the first infrastructure to open within this Capitol Redevelopment Program… Binuksan na po natin ang isang world-class na facility… We would like the [tourists] to stay more in Pangasinan. That is why we did this redevelopment program for the Capitol Complex… It’s a bold plan, it’s a dream of ours, but we will try our level best to make it into a reality.” He further thanked the DOT for confirming the much-needed request, which the province had previously lobbied for, to build another TRA in Manaoag, Pangasinan soon.
Amenities of the TRA features clean, safe, and PWD-friendly restrooms, shower facilities and a lactating room, a comfortable waiting lounge and café, dining area, a pasalubong center showcasing locally made Pangasinan products, charging and work stations, a spacious parking area, and an accessible tourist information desk. The TRA is also sustainably-designed with its solar-powered roofs and a rainwater catchment system that use local weather conditions efficiently. Overall, the establishment will enhance the traveler and local experience by offering a comfortable stopover, while connecting more closely with Pangasinan’s rich offerings.
Moreso, the event prominently featured a showcase of Pangasinan’s thriving local economy and rich culinary heritage. Guests and locals were drawn to the MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise) Showcase, which highlighted various partner enterprises from the province; and the Slow Food Movement, featuring a festive display of native fruits and vegetables of the Slow Food Community of Pangasinan.
First Impressions of a First-Time Visitor
For travelers arriving in Pangasinan, the journey begins not on a beach, but at a destination designed to define the entire trip: the new Tourist Rest Area. For Ms. Bernadette M. Roco, a tourist from the UERMMMC College of Medicine Batch 1980 Reunion, the experience was immediately memorable.
Upon stepping inside, the visitors are greeted by an eye-catching, oversized Pangasinan map. It can serve as a navigation tool, but beyond that, it is a purposeful showcase of each town’s unique identity, history, and products.
“The one that I really like is the ‘Magnayon Pangasinan,’ [featuring] all the things and all the importance of [each] town… Every time you go, there’s nothing like that map. I’m really impressed. That’s very nice of you to do that.”
Beyond the visual attractions, it was the warmth of the tourism staff that truly stood out from the visitors. “And the most important for me also is how we [were approached] by the tourism staff. [They’ve] been very nice… very helpful in arranging all these tours. So, Pangasinan is really a good place to tour, especially [because of] the hospitality,” Ms. Roco added.
The experience also inspired thoughtful suggestions for future enhancements, particularly dedicated spaces for children and educational activities highlighting local arts and culture.
More than a stopover facility, the TRA positions itself as the province’s first and friendliest ambassador.
Ongoing Major Development to Boost Tourism
With the goal of strengthening the province’s tourism appeal, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan is undertaking significant development projects within the Capitol Complex.
Beyond the well-known Lingayen Beach, the complex now proudly features a new landmark to admire: the sprawling reflecting pool that stretches over 200 meters, complemented by an interactive fountain.
Moreover, a key component of the modernization of the provincial government facilities is the ongoing construction of the 11-story Provincial Capitol Plaza. This facility aims to house a comprehensive range of both provincial and national agencies, with the primary objective of centralizing government services and improving accessibility for the public.
Governor Guico also revealed extensive commercial and leisure plans for the area. “There are areas here that we have allocated for commercial development like strip malls.” Culture and history are also a focus, with a Veterans’ Museum planned for the north-west section of the Capitol Plaza.
Perhaps the most exciting addition for tourism is the plan to build a 320-room internationally branded hotel complete with a convention center. This major project signals the province’s ambition to become a premier destination capable of hosting large-scale events and accommodating international visitors.
Pangasinan is strategically positioned along major tourism and transport routes in Northern Luzon. Establishing a TRA in the Capitol Beach Park in Lingayen supports the National Tourism Development Plan’s objective of strengthening tourism gateways and dispersing visitor traffic to high-potential destinations beyond traditional tourism centers.
By showcasing Pangasinan’s local products, culture, and warm hospitality at the point of entry, the TRA sets Pangasinan not just a pass-through province but as a destination with a strong sense of place.
Lingayen, Pangasinan—Aiming to turn ground insights into actionable strategies for improving tourist experiences, strengthening industry partnerships, and implementing smarter tourism initiatives across Pangasinan, the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office sits down with the tour operators and tour agencies (TOTAs) in Pangasinan, on January 29, 2026 at Narciso Ramos Administrative Building Conference Room.
Ms. Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan opened the Tongtongan session by tackling key agendas centered on updating the TOTA directory, establishing linkage with the Pangasinan Tourism Officers Association (PTOA), consolidating tour packages, and strategizing how to strengthen tourism in Pangasinan with the associations’ contributions.
This Tongtongan is a little but progressive step to move provincial tourism forward as Governor Ramon V. Guico III envisions a more unified and committed tourism players and stakeholders working together to bolster the province’s tourism industry.
Twenty-three (23) TOTAs were in attendance: Raj Travel And Tours Agency, Escapers Travel & Tours, The Monarch Hotel, Athena Travel Tours And Events Inc., Flyers International Corporation, RJB Travel And Tours, Crista Travel & Tours, Evergreen Tours And Travel Agency, JF’s Travel And Tours, Hi Five Travel & Tours, Regency Escapade Travel & Tours, M&J Travel And Tours, Euair Travel & Tours, Bethlehem Travel Services, Rhecho Travel & Tours, Sto. Cristo Tours & Travel, Princess Gateways Travel & Tours Office, Travexgo Travel and Tours, CDRJS Travel Services, Savetrip Travel & Tours, Palm Asia Travel & Tours, TG & T Travel & Tours, and Spirits Travel & Tours Office.
Lingayen, Pangasinan—Three-day knowledge-packed seminars and training boosted the tourism staff and personnel from the Local Government Units (LGUs) and private sectors of Pangasinan through the Department of Tourism – Region 1 (DOT-R1) capacity building initiatives; the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Seminar and the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) Training held on January 12-14, 2026 at Hotel Consuelo, Lingayen, Pangasinan.
To take a step toward informed, resilient, and disaster-ready tourism communities, the DRRM seminar featured a training specialist from the Office of Civil Defense Region 1, Ms. Rose Anne Fontalba, wherein she highlighted the paramount importance of a proactive approach to disaster-related events, ensuring that all personnel are actively engaged in reducing risk, enhancing readiness, and establishing effective response and recovery strategies or mechanisms.
The discussion was further enriched by distinguished speakers from Department of Science and Technology Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA), Mr. Jose E. Estrada Jr., Chief Meteorological Officer of PAGASA Dagupan; Engr. Vilma Vecino, Chief Geologist of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region I (DENR-MGB R1); and Ms. Michelle Bayhonan, Project Consultant of the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF). Presenting topics ranging from localized weather forecasting and landslide vulnerability assessment to best practices in disaster preparedness and response leading to a knowledge packed two-day seminar.
Further enhancing their professional capabilities, participants received specialized training on the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) on its third day. This essential upskilling initiative, led by Regional Trainer Mr. Dennis Detalo, is designed to ensure that the tourism staff are equipped to deliver the Philippines’ branded way of delivering excellent service experience, a key component in elevating the local tourism sector.
This comprehensive training and seminar program signals a direct and determined effort to realize Governor Ramon Mon-Mon Guico III’s visionary goal: to transform Pangasinan into a premier “destination of choice.” Crucially, this is achieved by ensuring that our tourism frontliners are fully-equipped, exceptionally knowledgeable, and thoroughly prepared to deliver the ‘Ang Galing!’ value through the exemplary standards of service, hospitality, and, most importantly, safety and resilience of Pangasinenses.
LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—With the tranquil shores of Lingayen Gulf as a witness, officials and veterans, together with their families, gathered to honor and celebrate the 81st Lingayen Gulf Landings Anniversary and 19th Pangasinan Veterans Day on January 09, 2026.
Thanksgiving Mass and Military Honors
The ceremonial commemoration began with a thanksgiving mass presided over by His Excellency Most Rev. Fidelis B. Layug, D.D., in honor of the valor, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of our war veterans. This was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony and a 21-gun salute led by the 71st Infantry Battalion (71IB) to signify utmost respect and gratitude for their heroic deeds.
The wreath-laying was headed by the following officials: His Excellency Marc Innes-Brown, Ambassador of the Australian Embassy, represented by LEUT Callum Heath, Royal Australian Navy-Liaison Officer (RAN LO); District 7 Commander Garrett Bridges of Veterans of Foreign Wars; MAJ Cesarjin M Manalon (MI) PA, Acting Executive Officer 702nd Infantry Brigade, 7th Infantry Division of Philippine Army Armed Forces of the Philippines, with PCOL Arbel C Mercullo, Provincial Director of the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office; Mr. Eulogio V. Catabran III, president of the Philippine Veterans Bank and Sons & Daughters Assoc. Inc., represented by Mr. Miguel Angelo C. Villa-Real, First Vice President, Marketing Communication and Consumer Protection Group, with MGEN Romeo D Alamillo (Ret), President and CEO of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines; USEC. Reynaldo Mapagu, administrator of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, represented by Atty. Brian James Cuevas, Chief, Veterans Affairs Management Division together with Serapio Medrano Placido, World War II Veteran; Hon. Ramon V. Guico III, DPM, Governor of the Province of Pangasinan; Hon. Gilberto Teodoro, Jr., secretary of the Department of National Defense, represented by USEC. Pablo M. Lorenzo, Defense Undersecretary for Civil Veteran and Reserve Affairs.
In a message delivered on behalf of Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr., Undersecretary Pablo M. Lorenzo underscored the enduring relevance of the commemoration. “More than anything else, this morning’s commemoration of the 81st Lingayen Gulf Landings and the 19th Pangasinan Veterans Day Celebration is an avenue to remind our fellow Filipinos that freedom, democracy, and the lives we enjoy now were valiantly fought for and deservedly-earned by those who came before us,” USEC Lorenzo stated.
Continuing the Legacy
As the number of living World War II veterans continues to dwindle, the ceremony carried an added weight. One of urgency, gratitude, and responsibility.
USEC Lorenzo reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to ensuring that remembrance goes beyond annual rites, “these veterans—our heroes—who gave so much and were even ready to sacrifice their own lives for us, deserve the benefits, recognition, and sustained support of a grateful nation.”
Meanwhile, Governor Ramon V. Guico III likewise highlighted in his notable speech the initiatives and programs the government launched to translate remembrance into tangible support for veterans and their families, including the reconstruction of the Veterans Park, the establishment of community hospitals, and the creation of institutions intended to ease the health, financial, and social burdens borne by Pangasinan’s war veterans.
“Through these efforts, we aim to liberate the people of Pangasinan from challenges such as health limitations, lack of education, financial burdens, and inaccessibility,” Governor Guico said.
In honoring the past, the province recommits itself to the living legacy of its veterans: that freedom must not only be remembered, but continuously upheld, protected, and made worthy of the sacrifice that won it.
Following the commemoration, a medical mission was conducted for the veterans and their families, providing free consultations, basic health services, and medical assistance.
LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—With the tranquil shores of Lingayen Gulf as a witness, officials and veterans, together with their families, gathered to honor and celebrate the 81st Lingayen Gulf Landings Anniversary and 19th Pangasinan Veterans Day on January 09, 2026.
