In a significant move to enhance historical awareness and patriotism, the Department of Tourism in the Ilocos Region (DOT-1), together with local government units from Pangasinan, La Union, Ilocos Sur, and Ilocos Norte, has introduced a new historical tour circuit. The initiative, which was unveiled on February 5, 2025, at the Banaan Museum in Lingayen, Pangasinan, aims to educate and engage visitors, particularly the youth, about the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The tour circuit is supported by a comprehensive guidebook developed by Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU). This guidebook details key historical sites across the four provinces, covering significant periods from pre-Spanish times through to contemporary history. Marissa Fangon, the project leader from DMMMSU, emphasized the guidebook’s focus on pivotal historical events, cultural influences, and landmarks that have shaped the Ilocos Region’s identity.
The historical trail includes notable sites such as the Pangasinan Capitol, Banaan Museum, and the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Rosary of Manaoag in Pangasinan. In La Union, visitors can explore the Museo Iloko, USAFIP NL Shrine, and Baluarte Watch Tower. Ilocos Sur features Bessang Pass, Vigan Museum, Santiago Cove, and the Gabriela Silang monument, while Ilocos Norte boasts Museo de Bacarra, Juan Luna Shrine, and San Agustin Church.
The tour package, designed to last three days and two nights, includes ‘sidetrip’ activities tailored for millennials and Generation Z. A familiarization tour from February 5 to 7 allowed participants to provide feedback, which will be used to refine the guidebook and enhance the trail before its official launch.
Evangeline Dadat, officer-in-charge of DOT-1, highlighted the project’s broader goal of fostering national pride among Filipinos. She stressed the importance of educating the youth about their history to strengthen patriotism, especially in current times. Maria Luisa Elduayan from the Pangasinan Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office noted that the new trail would provide marketing support for local historical attractions. Julius Manabat from the La Union Provincial Tourism office added that the initiative would help diversify their tourism market with the assistance of tour package operators.