City of San Fernando

The City of San Fernando, the heart of La Union and its capital since 1850, is a progressive center that serves as a melting pot of history, culture, and modern development. Founded in 1786 and named after King Ferdinand of Spain, the city traces its roots to a coastal settlement called Pindangan, an Ilocano word meaning "a place for sun-drying fish," formed when two vulnerable communities moved inland to escape pirate raids and attacks from the mountains. A local priest later suggested renaming the town San Fernando, honoring both the Spanish king and himself, Fr. Fernando Rey.

From this beginning rose a community shaped by resilience, having faced anti-Spanish revolts, American occupation, and fierce resistance during World War II. In 1998, San Fernando was granted cityhood through Republic Act 8509, becoming the first city in La Union and the administrative capital of Region I. Today, it stands as a growing destination known for attractions such as the Pindangan Ruins, La Union Botanical Garden, and Ma-Cho Temple.

San Fernando City is a 24-hour major transit point as well as origin and destination of buses plying the Manila to Laoag City route. It is very accessible due to its strategic location. Commuters and motorists will find their visit relaxing, thanks to its excellent roads and bridges. Only 270 kilometers north of Metro Manila, or a five to six-hour drive by land, it hosts the majority of national government agencies as the administrative capital of Region I.

Visitors can comfortably explore the city, especially its tourist attractions like the Botanical Garden, La Union Science Centrum, Bacsil Ridge, Pindangan Ruins, Ma-Cho Temple, Heroes' Hill, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Christ the Redeemer, Capitol Complex, and Thunderbird Entertainment Complex, with its wide array of transportation facilities. Jeepneys ply the major commercial and industrial centers of the city as well as the far-flung barangays. Tricycles are also available 24 hours a day, ready to take you to your desired destination. The city plaza, other than the private bus terminals, serves as the main loading and unloading zone of most public utility vehicles.

From March 7 to March 20, the star-studded City Fiesta is celebrated. It is highlighted by the Feast of Saint William the Hermit which is celebrated every 10th of February and the Pageant Night of Ms. City of San Fernando which is held on the last day of the fiesta.

A visit to the city won't be complete without a taste of the sumptuous local halo-halo, genuine Chinese cuisine, and seafood restaurants. Guests can also experience the city's nightlife with its wide choice of bars, folk houses, and videoke houses.

Guests who are always on the go can grab a souvenir at the La Union Trade Center which is aptly located along the National Highway beside the City Hall. SEAIR also flies from Manila to San Fernando City and vice versa every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. For those who wish to extend their stay, the city offers a wide array of hotels and motels suited for their budget.

The City of San Fernando has 59 barangays.