Mangaldan, Philippines
Region: Pangasinan
Geographic Coordinates: 16.070000, 120.402000
Temperature Range: 20.0°C to 35.0°C (68°F to 95°F)
Climate: Climate and weather patterns in Mangaldan, Philippines vary throughout the year.
Population: 113185
Language: Tagalog
Mangaldan is a municipality in the province of Pangasinan, Philippines. It is located in the central part of Pangasinan and shares borders with San Fabian to the north, Mapandan to the east, And Dagupan City to the south. The town covers approximately 5, 500 hectares of land and has a population of over 100, 000 people. One of Mangaldan’s main draws is its rich history. Spanish colonizers founded the town in 1660 and named it after an Indian prince called Mangal-Da-An. During World War II, It served as a base for guerrilla fighters who fought against Japanese forces.
Mangaldan is also well-known for its agricultural industry. The town produces various crops such as rice, Corn, Sugarcane, Mangoes, Bananas eggplants, Tomatoes among others due to its fertile soil making it one of Central Luzon’s top producers. The town celebrates its cultural heritage through numerous festivals throughout each year. One popular festival that attracts tourists from all over is their annual Pindangan Festival held every last week of April or first week of May which showcases street dancing competitions related to agriculture themes.
Another must-see attraction when visiting Mangaldan is St Thomas Aquinas Parish Church built during Spanish colonial times around 1871 with stones quarried from nearby hillsides. The church retains much original architecture including intricate carvings on wooden doors that depict religious scenes. For nature adventure enthusiasts, Mangaldans natural wonders are worth exploring too! Balungao Hilltop Adventure Park located at Barangay Balungao offers visitors zip-lining, Walls climbing, Rappelling activities while enjoying breathtaking views below.
Lastly, Mangaldans culinary delights are something not to be missed such as their famous Tupig (a native rice cake made from glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk wrapped with banana leaves)and their version Pancit Malabon(a seafood noodle dish originated from Malabon City). Overall, Mangaldan offers a unique blend of history, Culture, Nature and culinary delights. Its simplicity yet rich heritage make it worth visiting for those seeking an authentic Philippine experience.
- St. Thomas Aquinas Parish Church – a beautiful church built in the Spanish colonial style.
- Mangaldan Public Market – a bustling market where visitors can buy fresh produce and local goods.
- Balungao Hilltop Adventure – an outdoor adventure park with zip lines, obstacle courses, and other activities.
- Bagoong Factory – a factory that produces bagoong (a fermented fish paste), which is a local delicacy.
- The Old Municipal Hall- a historical building that served as the town’s municipal hall during the American colonial period.
- Mangaldan River Park- A riverside park where visitors can relax and enjoy nature’s beauty.
- Mangaldan Cemetery- A cemetery that is considered to be one of the oldest cemeteries in Pangasinan province.
- Mangaldan Sports Complex- A sports complex used for various sports events like basketball games or volleyball tournaments.
- Mangaldan is a small town located in the province of Pangasinan, Philippines.
- The town is known for its fertile soil and agricultural products such as rice, corn, vegetables, and fruits.
- In addition to agriculture, Mangaldan also has a rich fishing ground that provides livelihood to many residents.
- The town has several manufacturing companies that produce various products ranging from garments to footwear and furniture.
- Many small businesses operate in the town selling various goods like groceries, clothing items, hardware supplies etc., making retail and wholesale trade another significant industry in Mangaldan.
- Apart from these industries, there are several service-oriented businesses in Mangaldan including banks & financial institutions, micro-lending firms, hospitals & clinics, tourism related services etc.
- Construction is also one of the fastest-growing industries in Mangaldan due to the growing population of the town which requires more infrastructure development services.
- The town was founded in 1601 by Spanish friars.
- During the Philippine Revolution against Spain, Mangaldan became a center of resistance.
- In World War II, Japanese forces occupied the town and committed atrocities against civilians.
- The town is known for its rich agricultural land and production of rice, vegetables, fruits, and livestock.
- Notable people from Mangaldan include former Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos, Filipino actor Eddie Garcia, and basketball player Kiefer Ravena.
- The town is also home to several historic churches such as Sts Peter & Paul Parish Church built in 1686 which houses a centuries-old bell tower that served as a watchtower during Spanish colonial times.
- One of the most significant historical events that took place in Mangaldan was on January 13th 1945 when American forces landed on Lingayen Gulf marking the beginning of their liberation campaign to free Luzon from Japanese occupation which eventually led to Japan’s surrender later that year.
- Mangaldan has been recognized as one of Pangasinan’s cultural centers due to its preservation efforts on traditional folk dances such as Dinapigue, Banga or pot dance, and other indigenous practices like Rambak or bamboo cannon firing during fiestas which attracts tourists from different parts of Philippines every year.
- St. Thomas Aquinas Parish Church is a stunning church with intricate details and beautiful architecture.
- Mangaldan Municipal Hall is a historical building that showcases the rich history and culture of the town.
- Museo de Mangaldan houses artifacts, photographs, and other memorabilia that tell the story of Mangaldan’s past.
- Bagoong Factory is a unique place to visit where visitors can learn about the traditional process of making bagoong (a fermented fish paste).
- Binmaley Church Bell Tower, located in nearby Binmaley town, is one of the oldest structures in Pangasinan province.
- Lingayen Beach and Capitol Park are both located in Lingayen town and offer beautiful views of the sea and historic landmarks like the Lingayen Gulf War Memorial.
- Hundred Islands National Park is located about an hour’s drive from Mangaldan and boasts over 120 small islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
- Dagupan City Plaza, also known as People’s Astrodome, is one of Dagupan’s most popular landmarks where people gather for events or simply enjoy their leisure time at night with friends or family members while enjoying street foods sold by vendors around it.
- Mangaldan Basketball League (MBL)
- Founded in 1985
- One of the most successful basketball teams in Mangaldan
- Grown to become one of Pangasinan province’s biggest basketball leagues
- Attracts players from all over
- Mangaldan United Football Club (MUFC)
- Established in 2010
- Competes in various football tournaments around Pangasinan
- Has won several championships over the years
- Other sports teams in Mangaldan
- Volleyball
- Baseball
- Softball
- Martial arts clubs
- Provide opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills
- Represent their town with pride
- Mangaldan Town Fiesta is celebrated every 16th of January in honor of the town’s patron saint, Santo Tomas de Aquino.
- Pista ng San Pedro is celebrated every 29th of June in honor of Saint Peter, the patron saint of fishermen.
- Sinigayan Festival is a cultural and religious festival celebrated every last week of April featuring street dancing and a parade showcasing the town’s rich history and culture.
- Agew na Mangaldan is a week-long celebration held every first week of February that features different activities such as sports competitions, beauty pageants, talent shows, concerts, and food fairs.
- Christmas in Mangaldan sees residents decorate their homes with colorful lights and lanterns while carolers sing traditional Christmas songs around the town during the holiday season.
- Flores de Mayo is a month-long celebration held in May to honor Virgin Mary with daily masses and processions followed by colorful flower offerings.
- Feast Day of Our Lady of Lourdes is one day feast that is celebrated on February 11th with procession around town to honor Our Lady Of Lourdes who is considered as protector from illness or disease.
- Holy Week includes various processions throughout the city depicting Christ’s journey to Calvary leading up to Easter Sunday mass celebrations as part of this religious event.
- Tupig – a sweet sticky rice cake wrapped in banana leaves
- Longganisa – a Filipino-style sausage made with ground pork
- Inihaw na bangus – grilled milkfish, a popular fish in the Philippines
- Adobo – a classic Filipino dish of meat marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and other spices
- Bagnet – deep-fried crispy pork belly
Restaurants that serve these dishes include:
- Kainan ni Aling Cely’s Restaurant
- Dampa sa Mangaldan
- Matutina’s Seafood Restaurant
- G&B Grill and Restaurant
- Armando’s Pizza and Pasta House
- Mangaldan Municipal Park is a public park that offers various recreational activities such as a playground, basketball court, and jogging path.
- Pugaro Beach is a popular destination for swimming and picnicking with its beautiful scenery.
- Pangasinan Provincial Capitol Grounds is a spacious park that features gardens, fountains, and monuments perfect for strolling or relaxing.
- Bued River Eco Park is an eco-tourism destination that offers river cruises, zip-lining, and camping activities for nature lovers.
- Saint John Bosco Parish Church Grounds provides visitors with peaceful retreat areas ideal for meditation while admiring religious monuments.
- Laoac Ecological Park boasts of hiking trails, picnic spots, and scenic views of the countryside making it an excellent outdoor recreation area.
- Malimgas Public Market Plaza provides guests with fresh produce like fruits & vegetables along with local handicrafts & souvenirs to take home as memorabilia of their visit to the region.
- Barangay San Vicente Bike Trail offers mountain bike enthusiasts off-road biking experiences while enjoying the scenic view of rice fields & mountains in Barangay San Vicente area.
