Alaminos City
Alaminos
in western Pangasinan is the home of the famous Hundred Islands
National park, the very first national park in the Philippines.
In Region 1, it is the center of commerce, finance, education,
industry, and services. This city is abundant with natural
resources. Traders and businessmen continue to come and invest,
which brings economic growth to the town. With its continued
growth, Alaminos was reclassified from fourth to third class
municipality in July 1991.
Six years later, on May 7, 197, it was again
reclassified into a first class municipality. Finally, it
was converted into a city because of its booming economy and
strategic location in Western Pangasinan. Freeways, rice paddies
and country atmosphere are to be viewed while traveling to
Alaminos, all characteristics of a typical rural life. Alaminos
is 250 kilometers away from Manila, taking approximately 4
to 51/2 hours. One will experience a total hospitality from
the people of Alaminos.
A warm smile and a helpful hand are not
hard to find in this city. You'll find a reliable tourist
guide for free in an instant. They will willingly share their
distinct culture to interested travelers, with a bunch of
folk tales to listen to, merry songs, native sayings and a
full stomach. Catholicism is the main religion here. St. Joseph
Cathedral is the city's main church that hosts religious celebrations
for a whole year round.
The most awaited celebrations are the Lenten
presentation, the Feast of St. Joseph and Christmas celebration,
where many people are expected to participate in the celebrations'
events. Ilokano and Panggalatok are widely spoken and understood
in Alaminos. But to those who cannot comprehend, Tagalog and
English can also be used. The adventurous and creative nature
of the people of Alaminos can be seen in their art and crafts.
One can find proofs of their craftsmanship
in stores and shops through the different kinds of furniture
and ornaments made of shells, bamboo, wood, marsh grass, clay
and other native products. The daily life of Alaminos residents
start with a silent prayer or a church or chapel visit. They
are a very religious group of people who respect every religious
feast. The city's fiesta is celebrated a week long, where
one could visit different barangays and eat of their culinary
feast and join different games.
They believe that a good relationship ensures
peace and order, which are essential for the progress of the
city. The government, non-government and cooperatives join
hands together to educate and alert the residents about different
issues that could affect them. hard work, patience, and enthusiasm
are some of the people's admirable traits. They are open for
a healthy competition, welcoming foreigners and neighbors
to invest in the city.
The
city is also endowed with natural wonders. On its shores are
glistening waters, sparkling like diamonds, which are indeed
delightful to one's eye. A walk along the beach would most
possibly ends up with a dip into the soothing warm waters..
One will be fascinated by the colorful tropical fish and the
many coral gardens. The islands and islets count to 124 at
low tide and 123 at high tide.
They are scattered along Lingayen Gulf and
are believed to be some 2 million years old. Many of the islands
are still unexplored. This tourist spot covers an area of
1,844 hectares. According to folklores, the islands are the
tears of the primeval giant who lost his lady love. The journey
to the Hundred Islands starts with a tricycle ride from Alaminos
City to Barangay Lucap and the Don Gonzalo Montemayor Wharf.
At the port, there is a chartered boat that will get you to
any of the islands. Outrigger motorized boats can be rented
here, that will bring you to the islands and islets.
