SAN JUAN, LA UNION EYED AS ‘SURFING CAPITAL OF THE NORTH’

A LAWMAKER has filed a bill which seeks to declare San Juan, La Union as Surfing Capital of the North.

La Union 1^st district Rep. Paolo Ortega, one of the leaders of the Young Guns, filed House Bill 1214 which seeks to  officially declare San Juan as the “Surfing Capital of the North” while securing funding for its continued development and promotion.

The proposal not only celebrates San Juan’s growing reputation as a world-class surfing site, but also underscores its significant contributions to La Union’s tourism-driven economic growth.

San Juan, part of the province’s Central Circuit alongside San Fernando City, Bacnotan, and San Gabriel, has consistently drawn surfers and travelers from across the globe. In 2023 and 2024 alone, surfing-related tourism in the area generated a remarkable P2 billion in revenue.

The town’s status as a premier surfing destination was further solidified when it hosted the surfing competitions of the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, showcasing its internationally competitive surf breaks and vibrant coastal culture.

According to Ortega, San Juan’s natural beauty, world-renowned surf breaks, and warm, hospitable community make it a jewel of Northern Luzon.

“By formally recognizing San Juan as the Surfing Capital of the North, we aim to unlock greater opportunities for tourism, infrastructure development, and job creation, ensuring sustainable growth for our people,” he added.

The proposed measure aims to further strengthen tourism infrastructure, enhance the promotion of surfing culture, and attract more local and foreign visitors.

It is also aligned with La Union’s broader development agenda—leveraging its natural assets to spur inclusive growth, boost competitiveness, and solidify its position as a premier agri-tourism hub in the region.