SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union – The Provincial Government of La Union is set to transform the Rosario Rotonda into an iconic symbol of the province’s unity, heritage, and commitment to sustainability.
This landmark aims to showcase La Union’s cultural heritage while promoting sustainability and tourism, as highlighted during the La Union Council for Culture, Arts, and Language (LUCCAL) 4th Quarter Meeting in this city on Dec. 19.
Engineer Roneal Alvia of the La Union Provincial Engineering Office shared that the landmark will celebrate the province’s rich identity while positioning it as a global tourist destination.
“This project is not just a structure; it is a tribute to La Union’s heritage and natural treasures. It represents our unity as a province and our commitment to a sustainable and vibrant future,” Alvia said.
The centerpiece of the structure will feature three towering surfboards, symbolizing the unity of Ilocos, Benguet, and Pangasinan—the provinces that came together to form La Union in 1850.
These surfboards highlight La Union’s global reputation as the Surfing Capital of the North.
The design, initially conceptualized with a single surfboard, evolved into a trio for better visibility and to emphasize the harmony among the provinces that shaped La Union’s identity.
Design elements
The landmark will also include 20 rays emanating from the base, symbolizing the province’s 19 municipalities and one city.
At the base, intricate carvings made from Luna’s famous pebbles will depict cultural and natural icons, while a circular foundation measuring 1.85 meters in diameter honors La Union’s founding year, 1850.
The design incorporates both land and water elements, with a cascading fountain representing the province’s rivers and waterfalls, such as Tangadan Falls.
Bougainvillea plants, La Union’s provincial flower, will surround the structure and form a petal-like design when viewed from above.
A central tree will be preserved and integrated into the design, reflecting La Union’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Innovative, functional landmark
A unique feature of the landmark is its white surfboards, intentionally left unpainted to serve as projection screens for festivals and events. This design will allow the Rosario Rotonda to become a centerpiece for celebrations and public gatherings.
La Union Governor Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David described the project as a landmark that will inspire pride among residents and attract visitors from around the world.
“This rotonda will represent La Union’s heritage, culture, and unity, while serving as a beacon for our vision of sustainable progress,” Ortega-David said.
The proposed rotunda project, with a proposed budget allocation of P28 million, is poised to enhance infrastructure and connectivity in the area.
Once the budget is approved in 2025, the project will progress toward completion by 2026, fostering smoother traffic flow and contributing to the overall development of the community.
Once completed, the Rosario Rotonda will not only symbolize La Union’s rich heritage but also serve as a dynamic and sustainable attraction, elevating the province’s presence on a national and international scale. (CCMT/KJCR, PlA La Union)
