2. Mayor Hernani A. Braganza As we open our doors and extend
our hand of friendship to potential
ALAMINOS CITY NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS
J
partners in good governance,
sustainable development, tourism-
related ventures and investments,
J we always keep in mind the truism
ust like all growing cities in the world, Alaminos City –
Home of the Hundred Islands - is now opening its doors
that ‘no man is an island.’
to potential partners in investments, tourism-related ventures,
light industries and environmental conservation anchored on the And as we share the wonders and
universal concept of sustainable development. magic of the Hundred Islands to the
Barely five years after its creation as a new city in western
Pangasinan, it has metamorphosed into a thriving center of trade,
world, our people and our city are
agriculture and tourism in Northern Philippines. Not only that, it is well equally excited to break new
on its way to achieving its collective vision of transforming Alaminos grounds and forge new relations
into a metropolitan green city where two of its greatest assets and
with global partners to build a better
resources – its people and the Hundred Islands National Park – are
nurtured and developed to achieve equitable growth. and more developed Alaminos City.
Our collective aspiration as a people is to see Alaminos City as a
place where peace and harmony reign, where our God-given natural
resources are conserved and developed for the enjoyment of all
people from all walks of life, where business opportunities are created
to help improve the well-being of our people, where good governance
rather than patronage reigns in shaping the destiny of our city and
where a sustainable, livable and vibrant green city contribute to
national development.
By the year 2015, we envision a peaceful city, well educated,
healthy and God-centered citizens, sharing fully in a development,
propelled by a competitive local economy anchored on ecotourism,
agriculture, commerce and light industry, serving as the vibrant hub
of Western Pangasinan and as a living showcase of a family oriented,
environmentally-sensitive growth with equity.
As we open our doors and extend our hand of friendship to
potential partners in good governance, sustainable development,
tourism-related ventures and investments, we always keep in mind
the truism that ‘no man is an island.’ And as we share the wonders,
the white sand beaches and magic of the Hundred Islands to the
world, our people and our city are equally excited to break new
grounds and forge new relations with global partners to build a better
and more developed Alaminos City.
The open invitation is for everyone to discover the City of Alaminos,
to explore the magical charm and beauty of the Hundred Islands, to
befriend its people, to learn its rich culture, history and arts and to
help link the islands of friendship, cooperation and opportunities
among its people and the world.
Mabuhay!

3. CITYHOOD SAGA
A
A
journey to the City of Alaminos from Manila is a visual delight of lush
green rice fields, a right mix of old and modern houses picture-framed
by the foothills of Zambales Mountains and the blue waters of China
Sea.
It is also a trip down memory lane as magnificent and centuries-old
churches and plazas adorned the towns and cities that evoke a historic
past and reflect a lasting legacy of Spanish colonization and influence in the
Philippines.
Talk of Pangasinan and immediately, four famous places in the province
are mentioned: Dagupan for its delectable ‘bangus’ (milkfish); Lingayen for
its historic place in the Lingayen Gulf Landings of Gen. Douglas MacArthur
who liberated Northern Luzon from Japanese forces at the close of World
War II; Manaoag for its miraculous shrine of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary;
and, Alaminos City.
Pangasinan is famous for the Hundred Islands National Park. This is a
marine park located off the coast of Alaminos City in the Lingayen Gulf and
is composed of some 123 islands, most of which are quite small and
uninhabited.
The City of Alaminos has grown to be the trade, commercial, cultural
and educational center of Western Pangasinan but more popularly known
across the world being the home of the Hundred Islands located in the
northern reaches of the Philippines.
Its birth all began as a tiny village by the China Sea carved by settlers
from the nearby province of Zambales in the early years of Spanish rule. As
MAP OF
the little community grew, other families from Dagupan joined the original
settlers. It was later recognized as a barrio of the town of Bolinao. ALAMINOS CITY
After three relocations, a chaotic episode and the settling of internal
conflicts between mixed ethnic inhabitants, the cluster of villages close to
the world-renowned Hundred Islands was made a town only a few years
before the Philippine Revolution of 1898 erupted.
Soon after its top tourist attraction, the Hundred Islands, was declared
by Commonwealth President Manuel L. Quezon as a national park, it served Timeline: ALAMINOS History
as the melting pot in Western Pangasinan drawing people from all walks of
life – local tourists and foreigners alike – aside from being the commercial
SETTLEMENT BARRIO
hub of that part of the province. 1734 - Northern Zambal tribe founded a settlement named
Capitalizing on its strategic location with the presence of the world- Suyang (Now Zaragosa, Bolinao)
famous Hundred Islands National Park, and endowed with abundant natural 1737 - People of Suyang resettled in a place they called Barrio
wealth, Alaminos proved to be one of the few ‘boom’ towns in the Ilocos Casboran (Now Brgy. Baleyadaan, Alaminos City)
region. Entrepreneurs and traders were attracted like ants to honey. In
recent years, investments propelled an economic boom. BARRIO TO PUEBLO (INDEPENDENT TOWN)
1740 - Ilocano emigrants came by means of paraos (boat) and
With a booming economy reflected in leaps in local government helped in the building and the expansion of Barrio
revenues, Alaminos was upgraded from fourth to third class town in July Casboran.
1991, the only one in the province and one of the five towns in the Ilocos 1744 - Casboran rapidly grew into a progressive community and
Region to earn that score. Six years later, with continuous economic growth, already established commercial relationships with Chinese
Alaminos, got upgraded into a first class municipality. merchants and neighboring towns (Dagupan & Lingayen)
The idea of converting it into a city was first broached by Mayor Alipio 1747 - Casboran converted into an independent town from
Bolinao.
F. Fernandez Jr. in 1994 when he was chief executive of Dagupan City to 1758 - Destruction of Casboran due to conflict of political and
spur the town’s economic growth. In July 1997, Mayor Rivera convened the economic interests
Municipal Council led by the then Vice Mayor Eduardo F. Fontelera in the 1764 - Casboran was transferred and rebuilt in Sitio Nansangaan
first official move to convert the booming town into a city. The town legislature (now Barangay Inerangan, Alaminos City) and renamed
threw overwhelming support to the cityhood proposal. the place San Jose.
Rep. Hernani A. Braganza, then neophyte congressman representing 1766 - San Jose was transferred and renamed Barrio Sarapsap
(now Barangay Poblacion, Alaminos City)
the First District of Pangasinan in the 10th Congress, supported the local
government initiative and filed House Bill No. 10275 in Congress. PUEBLO TO MUNICIPALITY
Unfortunately, the bill was not passed after it was overtaken by the 1998 1873 - Sarapsap was renamed Alaminos in honor of the Spanish
national elections. Governor General Juan Alaminos de Vivar who visited
In the 11th Congress, second termer Congressman Braganza filed House the place.
Bill No. 4898, on October 21, 1998. At that time, the aspiring city had reached 1903 - Don Francisco Reinoso served as the Municipal president,
all the minimum requirements of population density and annual income to when Alaminos along the eight other towns of Northern
Zambales, joined the province of Pangasinan.
meet the minimum qualifications of a town to be made a component city of
its mother province. MUNICIPALITY TO CITY
Public hearings were called, the last one on October 21, 1991 at the 1991 - Alaminos was reclassified from 4th to 3rd class municipality.
Don Leopoldo Sison Auditorium in Alaminos where a huge crowd gathered Its reclassification was based on its gross income amounting
whether in favor or against the cityhood movement. to P11.7M pursuant to the provisions of Executive Order
And the rest is history. House Bill No. 4898 was approved by the House No. 249 and Finance Department Order No. 79-91 dated
July 1991.
of Representatives during its third and final reading in December the same 1997 - Alaminos posted a 338.5% increase in its gross income,
year. In February 8, 2001, House Bill No. 4898 and Senate Bill No. 2257 were amounting to P 39.6 M. Alaminos leaped from 3rd class
consolidated into one version and passed into law by both Chambers of municipality into a 1st class munipality.
Congress. 1998 - With its continuous economic growth, Alaminos grossed
Subsequently Republic Act 9025, an Act Converting the Municipality of a remarkable 155% increase in income amounting to 61.4
Alaminos, Province of Pangasinan into a Component City to be known as M that qualified the town for cityhood. A bill was filed by
Rep. Hernani A. Braganza.
the City of Alaminos was signed into law by President Gloria Macapagal 2001 - House Bill No. 4898 principally sponsored by
Arroyo on March 5, 2001, at the Kalayaan Hall in Malacañang. Congressman Braganza and Senate Bill No. 2257 were
The law took force on March 28, 2001 shortly after more than 85% of separately passed by both Houses of Congress. The
Alaminians voted a resounding “Yes” in a plebiscite making Alaminos as Philippine Senate enacted on February 8, 2001 Republic
the fourth city in the Province of Pangasinan. Act No. 9025, an Act Converting the Municipality of
Alaminos, Province of Pangasinan into a Component City
to be known as the City of Alaminos.
2001 - A plebiscite was conducted on March 28, 2001 wherein
85% Alaminians affirmatively voted for the conversion of
Alaminos into a Component City pursuant to R.A. 9025.

4. GEOGRAPHICAL PROFILE
Administrative Land Area: 166.23 sq. km.
No. Of Barangays: 39
ALAMINOS CITY AT A GLANCE
Available Alienable and Disposable Land: 14,486.144
Forest Lands: 555.955
Fishpond Development: 1,581.300
Length of Waterfront (km): 67.00
Length of Roads (km): 291.298
Road Density: 1.75 km/sq.km of Total Land Area
GEOGRAPHICAL ADVANTAGES
• Home of the World famous Hundred Islands
• Strategically located in Western Pangasinan
• Center of trade and commerce and the focal point in the
educational, political, religious and cultural movements in
Western Pangasinan
ABUNDANT NATURAL RESOURCES
• Blessed with about 67 km waterfronts
• Major milkfish (bangus) and fish producer and supplier in
Northern Luzon
• Vast tracts of fertile land
• Rich in historical, cultural, natural and other man-made
tourism attractions
• The 4th largest economy in the province of Pangasinan
PEACEFUL COMMUNITY
• With 56 ethnic groupings and 30 religious affiliations,
Alaminos City is the melting pot of cultures
COMPETITIVE EDGE
Proximity to Fastest Growing Economies
• Pangasinan is one of the growth nodes of North Growth
Quadrangle (NORTHQUAD)
• Alaminos City is a major tourism hub in the NORTHQUAD area
• Site of Brgy. Alos Industrial Zone (Proton Car Assembly Plant)
RELATIVE DISTANCES FROM ALAMINOS CITY (KM)
Subic International Airport / Seaport 200
Clark International Airport 125
Laoag International Airport 295
San Fernando International Airport 123
Manila 257
Baguio City 136
FLYING TIME FROM MANILA TO
MAJOR CITIES OF THE ASIA PACIFIC
Melbourne 11 hrs 10 mins
Sydney 10 hrs 40 mins
Brisbane 10 hrs 55 mins
Singapore 3 hrs 10 mins
Jakarta 4 hrs 40 mins
Kuala Lumpur 3 hrs 55 mins
Bangkok 4 hrs
Taipei 2 hrs

7. Escape to a Green City
TT he young city of Alaminos offers a great escape from the frenzy, heat, stress and perpetual motion of urban living.
In fact, it offers more than the usual tourist destinations in the Philippines.
Talk of the white sand beaches of Boracay, Aklan and El Nido, Palawan, the City of Alaminos has more than
its fair share of white sand beaches in the various islands and islets at the Hundred Islands National Park. Added
bonus is its fast emerging tourist attraction, the Bolo Beach located along the coastline of the historic Lingayen
Gulf facing the China Sea.
It is an emerging green city where environmental Getting to Alaminos City is about five-hour bus
protection, marine ecosystem conservation or ride from Metro Manila and three-hour trip from
simply keeping one’s surrounding clean are readily Baguio City. Land travel from Manila to Alaminos
embraced by its people who have come together City is 250 kilometers or a four-hour trip by car
as one in preserving their God-given natural wealth, from Manila via Camiling, Tarlac.
the Hundred Islands National Park. Today, public bus lines regularly ply the Manila-
It is a peaceful, vibrant and caring city that Pangasinan route, some of which pass through
takes care of its resources and people who are Alaminos City on the way to the capital town of
united in their collective vision to build an edifice of Lingayen or the commercial city of Dagupan
peace, progress and economic stability in Western through Camiling, Tarlac. Buses have regular trips
Pangasinan in Northern Philippines. between Alaminos and Baguio via Dagupan.
Its bullish march to progress is anchored on Recent developments in Central Luzon have
the city’s 10-point agenda that integrates innovative brought the place closer to travelers. The
agricultural development and modernization, tourism abandoned Clark military base was converted into
revival, environmental conservation and coastal a special economic zone, luring in foreign locators.
resources management, provision of improved basic Its huge airfield got named the Diosdado
services, public order and safety, human resources Macapagal International Airport, upgraded and
development and city government modernization. designed to be the 21st century alternative to the
By embracing the basic principles of good international airport in Manila. The airport is
governance, growth with equity and providing positioned to be the logistic hub of East Asia,
opportunities through innovative programs and transhipment center for air cargo.
projects, the City of Alaminos is now fast becoming And more recently, the frenzied construction
a model for sustainable development. of the Subic Freeport-Clark-Tarlac superhighway,
Thus, visiting Alaminos City is not just an timed to be opened in 2007, is seen to shorten
adventure trip to escape urban life. It is in itself a travel time from the booming Subic-Clark economic
journey to many discoveries. In fact, Korean and corridor to Alaminos City and its Hundreds Islands
American nationals, who register the highest in just an hour or less by car.
number of foreign tourists visiting the Hundred Soon, two 12-seater, single engine U.S. made
Islands, will readily attest to their memorable amphibian aircrafts will start ferrying tourists and
experiences of fun and adventure in Pangasinan’s visitors in a 45-minute flight from Metro Manila to
best-known tourism attraction. Alaminos City.

8. DIVERSE & FRIENDLY
City Folks
AA laminos is a city of settlers.
True to its historical roots
of having been built by
settlers from Zambales and Dagupan,
the city is home to 56 ethnic groups
including Muslim migrants from
Mindanao who have found peace and
practically all religious sects and their
churches, Christians, Muslims,
Shintoists, and Mormons. Catholism
remains the dominant religion, the St.
Joseph Cathedral, its living symbol.
Predominantly Christian, the town
celebrates the most important
Pangasinense with roots in Central
Pangasinan and Ilocanos who trace
their roots to the Ilocos provinces up
north. Other residents often learn both
languages.
With their mixed languages, they
have brought along their native songs,
harmony in one community. religious festivities, a long Christmas many of which have become local
The Alaminians are a warm and festival of merry making, gift giving, classics, sang during festivals, barrio
hospitable people, keen at giving their partying, and fireworks that begins on fiestas, weddings and parties.
best when dealing with guests. Raised December 24 while waiting for the
in a place that nature has carved for rest birthday of the Christ Jesus and ends Economic Preferences
and recreation, creating one’s simple on New Year’s day the following year
joys like instant parties, quick picnics to greet new beginnings. Ethnic beginnings cascade to
at the beach, drinking sessions at the The Lenten Season is the second economic activities. Those with
corner store, or just a twilight stroll — of the city’s main Christian festivals. Pangasinense roots, especially those
to its people is second nature. In contrast to the long and happy from the trading city of Dagupan, tend
For first-time visitors, one finds celebration of Christ’s birthday, the to become entrepreneurs and traders,
comfort in the ease of getting accepted. passion and crucifixion of Christ is competing with zest with the local
And if the guest opts for a longer stay, marked with solemn prayers, Chinese and Muslims.
he would soon discover the warmth and mourning songs and reenactment of Those with Ilocano roots prefer the
depth of his welcome. It comes in the his last days of Christ until his professions. They teach their children
form of sharing a glass of their local resurrection. to become lawyers, accountants,
brews, tasting their favorite delicacies, nurses and doctors. Of course, other
exchanging pleasantries or singing with Linguists All parents also send their children to
them in a corner bar. college, if they can, for like most Filipino
Each resident speaks at least families, education is valued very high
Many Religions three languages, Pilipino, the national in Alaminos City. The Ilocanos are
language, English, the second adept at farming and raised to tackle
Reflective of its wide mix of ethnic national language and his native the hard work it demands. The
groups and a culture of tolerance the tongue. Many speak more dialects as Pangasinenses, having a kindship with
mixture spawned, the city hosts the two most dominant groups are the the sea, tend to be in fish culture or
are into sea fishing.

9. Arts and Crafts
The arts and crafts of the city reflect the influence of its
geographic location, as well as its neighbors. One can browse
through shops and be met by an array of furniture and
ornaments made of shells, bamboo, wood, marsh grass, clay
and other native products. Traditional styles are still abundant
but artists and craftsmen are also steering towards fresh
designs and structures, a further manifestation of the
adventurous and creative nature of the people of this city.
Delicacies
The city’s mixed roots also expresses itself in the diversity
of their native delicacies. The seaside dwellers have brought
into the local cuisine the many ways of cooking, the milkfish
(bangus) from barbecue to sinigang, several variations of the
Ilocanos’ pinakbet, the many uses of the Lingayen fish sauce
or bagoong and serving fresh seaweeds called arosip and
cultured oyster named talaba.
They do have some other native preparations like the native
sausage called longganisa, rice cake called patupat, other
native cakes called suman, tinuroc, sumang latik, tupig, masicoy
and bibingkang latik.Other delicacies include tambo-tambong,
papaitan, dinakdakan, kilawen and binungey --- an ingenious
native delicacy steamed in bamboo. Infused with the richness of
coconut extract and heated evenly, the glutinous rice turns into a
treat that oozes delectability and leaves you full and satisfied.
The use of bamboo tubes adds to this delicacy's uniquely clean
aroma and taste, leaving you with possibilities of your own very
flavorful combinations.
Unity in Diversity
Family comes first, the clan second, the neighborhood or
community third in this city. With the friendly and cooperative
nature of the people, the city is like one big family itself. People
work together in maintaining good relations with each other
and for the good of the community.

10. Explore The Hundred Islands National Park
Sparkling like diamonds, the waters glisten as the sun’s golden rays touch
the pristine sea. The powdery blue sky casts a bright gleam beneath. The spread
of white sand shimmers against the stream that changes hue—from emerald
green to turquoise and azure—as the briny deep seems unfathomable.
How many islands? The count, even greater (actually 124 at low tide and
123 at high tide), sums up the grouping of isles scattered incidentally along
Lingayen Gulf, many of which are still unexplored.
Covering an area of 1,844 hectares, the islands are believed to be some
two million years old. According to certain folklore, the islands were tears of a
primeval giant who lost his ladylove. Others tell of tall-tale of mermaids that
once inhabited its seas.
Some other legends claim that the Hundred Islands are remnant tips of the
lost continent of Lemuria, fabled as the Pacific continent at war with Atlantis
before both advanced civilizations disappeared under the sea. Its legendary
past is attributed behind the frequent emergence of psychics and faith healers
in the province of Pangasinan
How Hundred Islands was discovered, became a national park and always
considered as a priceless natural jewel. These are just but a few of the unanswered
facts about the world’s eight wonder which is now back in the caring hands of
Alaminians.
Below is a historical timeline of the Hundred Islands National Park (HINP).
1937. President Manuel Quezon visited Alaminos and appointed Dr. Gonzalo
Montemayor, then the provincial health office, to oversee the development of
the Hundred Islands.
1940. President Manuel L. Quezon issued Presidential Proclamation No. 667 on
January 18, 1940, declaring a group of islands in the Municipality of Alaminos,
Pangasinan as the “Hundred Islands National Park” (HINP) for the benefit and
enjoyment of the people of the Philippines.
1962. President Diosdado Macapagal issued Republic Act No. 3655 on June 22,
1962 that created the Hundred Islands Conservation and Development Authority
(HICDA), for the conservation, development and management of HINP.
1974. President Ferdinand E. Marcos transferred the HINP including Lucap Bay
from HICDA to the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA) by virtue of Section 35 of
Presidential Decree No. 564.
1982. President Marcos issued Proclamation No. 2183 on April 27, 1982 declaring
the HINP, including the Lucap Bay and its foreshore areas beginning from Sitio
Telbang in the east to Sitio Recudo in the west, as a Tourist Zone and Marine
Reserve under the control and administration of the PTA.
1982. President Marcos issued Proclamation No. 1282 on June 21, 1974 certain
parcels of land reserve for Marine Fisheries Multi-Purpose Farm under were
withdrawn and placed under the control and supervision of the PTA for
development purposes as provided for under Presidential Proclamation No.
2237 dated November 06, 1982,
1990. President Corazon C. Aquino signed Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise
known as the Local Government Code of 1991, which encourages the transfer of
power and authority from the national government to the local government units,
in line with the government’s devolution program as mandated by the Constitution.
1994. President Fidel V. Ramos issued Executive Order No. 145 on April 20,
1994 creating the Lingayen Gulf Coastal Area Management Commission and
placing the entire stretch of 2,109 square kilometers, from the tip of Bolinao in
Santiago Islands , the Hundred Islands up to the coastal barangays of San Juan
in La Union, as endangered zone due to illegal fishing and wanton abuse of its
vast marine resources.
1997. President Fidel Ramos issued Executive Order No. 450 creating the Inter
Agency Task Force on Coastal Environment Protection placing the Philippine
National Police to dismantle over 3,000 lllegal fishpens and fishcages in the
entire stretch of Lingayen Gulf and its inner tributaries.
2001. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo signed Republic Act No. 9025, otherwise
known as “An Act Converting The Municipality of Alaminos, Pangasinan into a
Component City to be known as the City of Alaminos.” Principal author was
Pangasinan First District Rep. Hernani A. Braganza of Alaminos.
2004. Mayor Hernani A. Braganza initiated a serious move to ‘reclaim the Hundred
Islands National Park’ for the City of Alaminos.
2005. President Arroyo signed on June 24, 2005 Executive Order No. 436
transferring the management, administration and maintenance of the HINP from
the Philippine Tourism Authority to the City of Alaminos.
2005. The Philippine Tourism Authority headed by its General Manager Dean
Barbers formally turned over the HINP to Alaminos City Mayor Hernani A.
Getting there Braganza.
From downtown Alaminos City, a breezy
tricycle ride brings you to barangay
Lucap and The Don Gonzalo Montemayor
wharf. At the wharf, one sees a few of
the islands. The best way to get there
is by chartered boat. The port doubles
as a parking lot for a fee. Outrigger
motorized boats can be rented here to
ferry you to a cluster of islands and
islets collectively known as the Hundred
Islands.

11. T
T
ears of a giant. Tips of a lost continent. These are some of the many legends, surrounding the origins
of the Hundred Islands National Park. For it was, still is, and will remain one of the few wonders in the
world carved by nature. Those pearls of islets and islands are millions of years old and may be there
a million years more.
Seeing the place from up close or stepping
on the shore of one islet — is magic. It blows
one’s imagination. It reminds one of creation.
The magic is still there waiting to be
giant clams native to the place called Taklobos, whose
greenish shells are seen above waters, in the
multicolored coral reefs where schools of fish move
around, the picture perfect coves and unspoiled Bolo
rediscovered. It is those white beaches in many beach.
of the islands previous guests failed to see. It A stroll along the beach ends up with a dip into the
is in the secret caverns of the many caves soothing warm waters. Colorful schools of tropical
waiting to be explored. fish glide among coral gardens.
The magic pops up whenever dolphins Out of the water, discover not only one isle but a
visits the islands and frolic among them, in the throng of numerous islands ambling along each other.
The magic has always been there waiting for the next beholder.

12. Bolo Beach Hideaway seaweeds and sea lives. Its alluring Sabangan), Nalsoc Caves (Brgy. Sabangan
cerulean waters, strewn with 123 islets, is and Brgy. Pandan), Simmimbahan Cave
Ten kilometers from the city, Bolo also home to the fragile and diverse jewels (Brgy. Sabangan), Milagrosa Cave
beach has become a favorite weekend of the Philippine Sea – the Coral Reefs. (Milagrosa Island), Cuenco Cave (Cuenco
family hideaway. Highly accessible, its They shelter, feed and protect a copious Island), Cathedral Cave (Cathedral Island),
long, horseshoe-shaped beach and shallow number of sea creatures in the Park. They Century Cave (Century Island), Quirino
waters offer playgrounds for children and also aid the 123 islets in protecting the Cave (Quirino Island) and Virgin Cave
a refreshing retreat for adults. The coarsely city’s coast from the onrush of giant waves. (Virgin Island)
formed rock formations near the shore are The hard and soft corals with awe-inspiring
given new looks by the local folk. They forms and interesting hues that glistened Giant Clams (Taklobos)
topped these rough, blank rocks with mystically in the deep, create a magical
colored, smaller rocks, creating works of underwater vista. Divers and snorkelers The Giant Clams, locally known as
natural art. have the time of their lives gliding with taklobos, are sea creatures regarded as the
Fun seeking troops relax on the beach’s the many magnificent fishes and other sea world’s largest bivalve mollusks. Each clam
wooden sheds and cottages, complete creatures. has a shell length extending over a meter
with picnic tables and videoke facilities. and can weigh over 225 kg. It is the faithful
Or one may rent “rock sheds” carved out Undersea Caves ally of the coral reef in supporting the
of protruding sandstones above water, marine life in the Park. Its massive size
slightly flattened and furnished with Extraordinary caves abound at the and interesting hues that gleam underwater
benches, tables, and videoke, Bolo’s Hundred Islands which many scientists see prove to be a magnificent attraction,
signature floating huts. as part of a continuing evolutionary marveled at by visiting tourists who either
process that creates an aura of a breathing dive or snorkel in the area. Its soft flesh is
Coral Reefs earth. Today, up to ten caves have been coveted the world over for its delectability.
identified and some were named based on
The Hundred Islands National Park is some myths, legends and the stone
rich with a wide variety of corals, formations namely Alama Cave (Brgy.

13. MAJOR EVENTS AND CULTURAL SHOWS
HUNDRED ISLANDS FESTIVAL
The most anticipated and largest crowd-drawer event in Alaminos City. An annual festival
that combines sports, adventure and agro-tourism aimed at enhancing environmental and cultural
awareness. This is a unique event that can only be experienced in Alaminos City. Rolled into one
– you can enjoy the summer youth camp, images of hundred islands, adventure race and
hundred islands tour. Lavish celebration marks the Hundred Islands Festival. String of athletic
and challenging pursuits like sky diving competition, skills Olympics or island adventure race
are among the activities that attract thrill-seeking foreign and local tourists. The best aqua products
are exhibited in the agro-trade fair while seafood cuisine takes center stage as restaurants showcase
their best and most sumptuous menus. The most awaited spectacle is the fluvial parade,
showcasing floats made of shells and other fabulous marine themes. Magnificent designs only
get better at each competition. The streets come alive with the sound and beats of the street
dancing contests alongside a drum and lyre competition by different schools and an exhibition
by a professional drum and bugle group. Night glitters with the charming smiles from beautiful
muses vying for the Hundred Island maiden pageant. Young crowd flock the concerts featuring
famous bands or celebrities.
ADVENTURE HUNDRED ISLANDS
The Hundred Islands Adventure is an annual event primarily catered to the tourists and
visitors who take part in some of most breathtaking acitivities, fun and exciting adventures and
unforgettable experiences such as parasailing (400-600 above sea level), bird and bat viewing,
banana boat ride, sailing, tyrolean traverse, spelunking, kayaking, camping, snorkeling, scuba
diving, jet ski, fishing, picnic, trekking and a lot more.
CITY AND BARANGAY FIESTAS
Festive, colorful and vibrant. Alaminos City celebrates a traditional Filipino fiesta. The
weeklong celebration usually starts on March 17 with events and fairs decorating the whole city
before, during and after the actual date of the fiesta. Alaminians and visitors are treated to a galore
of concerts by famous artists, beauty pageants and sports competitions. Food and product fairs
spice up the city fiesta showcasing the people’s ingenuity and various products of Alaminos
City. The action and spectacle continue until the wee hours of the evening highlighted by a
fireworks display.
Fiesta is incomplete without the carnival rides like the Ferris Wheel or Merry-Go-Round.
Children especially enjoy going to the circus, chomping and gulping treats as their eyes silently
gape at trapeze artists, magicians and sword eaters.
A barangay fiesta in Alaminos City is a scaled version of the city fiesta. Local bands take the
place of famous recording groups. Pageants for ladies and gays and sometimes mini-fashion
shows are staged in the evening. Basketball competition is a popular day event. Host families
usually prepare sumptuous food intended for guests and friends from neighboring barangays.
MORO-MORO / ZARZUELA
Traditional musical plays center on the rich history or colorful origin of the place, thus is
usually set before or during Spanish regime. Legends are sometimes given the stage, reintroducing
to the people a part of their heritage.Zarzuela is often presented in different festivals and barangay
fiestas. Contemporary versions are staged in big celebrations brought about by the remarkable
creativity of local literary artists. Most use the vernacular dialect but are now more inclined to
use Filipino, to reach more audiences. The youth are often the active participants in these
undertakings. The adults readily share the art of living up the heart of the script of the musical
play on stage to these young flames.
PASSION OF THE CHRIST
Senakulo is the most awaited spectacle during Lenten season in Alaminos City. It is a
reenactment and solemn parade of Christ’s passion and death. Households near the church
wait eagerly for the visit of acting Roman soldiers with their menacingly painted masks and
armors, pounding on doors to search for Jesus. At the day of Christ’s suffering and death, people
gather at the church to witness the reenactment, the judgment of Jesus, the Crucifixion and His
Seven Last Words. The routine of the reenactment has not changed, but its presentation is
infused with a fresh flavor to reach the modern-world absorbed consciousness of the new
generation.
FLORES DE MAYO
The traditional praying of the Novena for nine days, in honor of the Virgin Mary ushers
in the festive Santacruzan in celebration of the Holy Cross. The loveliest ladies in the city are
selected to participate in the late afternoon procession that often stretches into evening. They
wear elegantly designed and exquisitely embellished gowns, portraying characters in the story
of Queen Elena’s search and eventual find of the Holy Cross. Every barangay is well represented
providing different characters like the queens and other important biblical women like Esther,
Judith, Veronica, and the Queen of Sheba. Others opt for the Marian characters like Reyna de
las Flores (queen of flowers) and Reyna de las Estrellas (queen of stars). Other focus on the
representation of moral characters like Reyna Hustisya (Justice; in the earlier celebrations, she
wears a blindfold), Esperanza (the representation of hope), and Caridad (symbolizing charity
and love), and still others, enjoy the combination of any or all of the three.
TALABA FESTIVAL
The talaba (oyster) is among+ the gems of seafood cooking in many of the city’s households,
especially those near the sea. A festival is held to promote the oyster’s succulent taste. People
cheer contestants in an oyster-shucking contest and for their creative presentations of various
delectable dishes in a cooking showdown.
AGRI-TRADE FAIR
The annual Agri Trade fair showcases the best of Alaminos City products as a result of
the Agri-Volution, Ocho-Ocho and BIPSA programs of the city government. Exhibited delicacies
are the finest in the city, like the irresistible Alaminos longganisa, the grilled bangus belly, the
unique ‘binungey’ and oyster nuggets.

16. P
P
eoples around the world are reaping the wrath of a wounded Mother
Earth for wanton destruction of the environment. But in developing
countries like the Philippines, despite suffering the fury of super-typhoons, killer
quakes, volcanic eruptions and fatal mudslides, few of their leaders are slow at
learning nature’s lessons.
In a not so distant past, the City of Alaminos, home to the world famous
Hundred Islands National Park, suffered hard and long for abusing its rare natural
gem. Its desperate poor resorted to blasting out with dynamite or poisoning with
to the city government last September 29, 2005 that really sealed all the
environmental, conservation and protection programs and initiatives started by
the Braganza administration.
“After 65 long years of dreaming, after 65 years of aspiring to have the 100
islands as part of the city of Alaminos, finally Executive Order No. 436 was
signed, giving full authority, control and supervision of the 100 islands for the
first time, not (only) to the city of Alaminos but to the people of Alaminos. This
is a great honor for all of us but it goes with it big responsibility in exchange of
cyanide the fishes left in near-shore waters of the Lingayen Gulf including those the trust which President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, Tourism Secretary Ace
around the protected marine park. Durano, Environment Secretary Michael Defensor and PTA General Manager
The local officialdom, through either benign neglect or plain apathy, closed Dean Barbers and other officials who made possible the Alaminos dream a
their eyes to the destruction. In only a few years, the unique beauty of those reality,” said Mayor Braganza at the turn over rites.
islands fell short of the demands for modern tourist destinations to bring in foreign For his part, PTA General Manager Barbers expressed elation over the
guests. The million-year old islands lost their luster, their white beaches forgotten. transfer that will give the people of Alaminos City the chance to prove to the
The multi-colored coral reefs were almost all dead. The fishes have escaped whole Philippines and to the whole world that they “can take care of their own
to safer waters. Few of the native giant clams were left, going the way of the resources and natural treasure.”
extinct dodo. President Arroyo signed Executive Order last June 22, transferring the
The beachfronts got murky, used as garbage dumpsites and septic disposal management, administration and maintenance of the Hundred Islands National
ground. Park (HINP) from the PTA to the city government.
Like the scared sea creatures, foreign tourists disappeared. It hurt the town Just recently, the Alaminos City government and the Marine Environment
so hard, its economy suffered. Alaminos had lost its most stable source of dollar Resources Foundation (MERF) through its president, Ma. Josefa R. Pante,
income. signed the Conservation Partnership Agreement (CPA) calling for a cooperative
Meanwhile, less endowed beach areas in Thailand, Indonesia and Boracay and collaborative to the effort and commitment for the utmost protection, conservation
in Aklan province, captured the imagination of the fun, comfort, and nature-loving and management of the coastal resources of Alaminos through MERF’s “SAGIP
international tourists. In droves, they trooped to beach resorts that offered little Lingayen Gulf Project.” MERF is the implementing arm of SAGIP from December
more than contrived thrills, sun, sand and clear waters. 2002 until November 2007, which is funded by the Netherlands Government and
Returning from a whirlwind fling with Cabinet positions as Agrarian Reform is multi-stakeholder cooperation and businesslike partnership.
Secretary, Press Secretary and Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs, Alaminos “Working with MERF and Netherlands government will definitely boost our
City Mayor Hernani A Braganza saw his hometown, already a city, slowly conservation effort and we are very grateful that we have such partners
choking of its self-inflicted environment destruction. harmonizing their programs and sharing their resources and efforts to sustain
“If the city is to regain its old glory as top beach resort and eco-tourism the management and protection of our coastal resources,” stressed Braganza.
destination in Luzon, it has to literally clean its backyard and heal the wounds it Among the major components of the agreement include the Marine Protected
had inflicted on its most precious natural wealth – its white beaches, the waters Area Management, reseeding of High Value Invertebrates, Mangrove
between those exotic islands and the decay on those islands,” Braganza declared Management, Water Quality Management, Fisheries Law Enforcement and CRM
shortly after he assumed office on June 30, 2004. Planning and Reporting.
Only on his first term as city chief executive, Mayor Braganza has put on “The Alaminos City government is a perfect example of an LGU rising up
the ground an aggressive and comprehensive environment rehabilitation, renewal above the challenges and mandates on environmental protection,” noted MERF
and protection program the city only saw today. president Pante.
One the landmark initiatives of the Braganza administration was the enactment The scorecard of Alaminos City in vigorously pushing for a serious
of the Alaminos Coastal Resources Management and Fisheries Ordinance that environmental and marine conservation program did not escape the eyes of
outlined the city’s Five-Year (2006-2010) Coastal Resource Management (CRM) many. As a result, the city has received many coastal resources management-
Plan. related awards and citations namely: 2006 Best Coastal LGU in Mangrove
Among the laudable CRM endeavors launched by the Braganza administration Development Initiative Awards; 2005 Cleanest Coastal LGU Award (Grand
include: the promotion of mariculture and medium enterprise development initiatives; Prize); 2004 Best CRM Initiative Award, (2nd Prize); and, much earlier before
reforestation of the vast mangroves areas in 10 coastal barangays; the Braganza’s term, the 2003 Cleanest Coastal LGU Award.
establishment of the Telbang Fish Sanctuary. While the Philippines has enacted some of the strictest environment laws in
However, it was the historic transfer of the management, protection and the world covering all dangers posed in the air, on land and in water. But few local
administration of the Hundred Island National Park from Philippine Tourism Authority governments enforce those laws. Alaminos used those laws, particularly the ban

17. on all forms of illegal fishing and poaching by the Bantay Dagat volunteers Just recently, British Jonathan Hornbuckle, acclaimed as the world’s second
and Anti-Ilegal Fishing crack teams. top bird watcher, visited Hundred Islands and observed that Philippine birds,
Setting an example, law enforcers caught a Taiwanese tourist harvesting which are known to nest in other places, are now actually breeding and thriving
a protected giant clam, eating its flesh and keeping its shell. The tourist was at the islands.
questioned and investigated but later released after paying an expensive fine “This only means that the birds actually mate here, blend with other species
for his offense. It stopped poaching of the rare giant clam which was close to and have been staying in the area for quite a long time now” said Hornbuckle
extinction until marine scientists replanted in the park waters mother clams adding that the islands are a perfect place for birds to grow and multiply.
from elsewhere in Pangasinan. Having identified more than 8, 000 species of birds across the globe for
“Everybody makes mistakes, some even palpable, yet we in the city almost three decades, Hornbuckle, had easily recognized close to 50 species of
stand firm on our commitment and responsibility to impose the law more so Philippine birds in three islands alone.
if it concerns our marine environment,” Mayor Braganza said. At Kamantilis island, which is few meters away from the coastal barangays
Braganza said the city government is not opposed to tourists taking of Pandan and Sabangan, the group saw magpie robins, Philippine hooded pitta,
pictures, snorkeling and holding the giant clams. “But we let them (tourists) blue tailed bee eaters, purple night herons, zebra dove, white collared king
know that they just cannot poach or hunt giant clams, collect corrals and fishers, black nape terns, greater and lesser sand plover and pompado green
gather bonsais at our city’s protected treasure.” pigeon to name a few.
It can be recalled that the former President Fidel Ramos initiated the Hornbuckle revealed that the first four species of migratory birds were
seeding of the giant clams at the Hundred Islands in mid 90’s, diving in the already seen at the city’s major river and mangrove areas. Thousands of migratory
waters to help plant the then baby clams. Braganza, who was a congressman birds are expected to arrive at Hundred Islands and at the city’s river banks and
at that time, outlined a vision to make the park the Giant Clam Garden of mangrove parks by the month of August until October.
Asia. At a courtesy call, Hornbuckle congratulated Mayor Braganza for the
The Giant Clam and Corral Garden near the Quezon Island is one of the remarkable transformation of the Hundred Islands and for the conscientious efforts
main tourist attractions today at the national park. Some 7,000 giant clams at and commitment of the city government in protecting the wildlife particularly birds
the Hundred Islands are currently being protected by the city government’s since they are basically an indicator of good or healthy environment.
Bantay Dagat and the local police. The protected park has yet to win back the fancy of a new generation of
Where the coral reefs had died, the city government took pains in tourists.
building artificial reefs out of submersible junks like old cars. It re-established But the islands’ generated exposure and the examples set by the four PBB
depleted marine sanctuaries, reforested mangroves and deployed additional survivors - Kim, Mikee, Clare and Gerald - of the Pinoy Big Brother, a phenomenal
park guards and environment officers on the most frequented islands. reality TV produced by ABS CBN, stayed at the Governor’s Island’s guest
On land, the local government has intensified the cleaning of run-off house, re-designed PBB style. Aired live on Channel 2, the PBB housemates
canals, the beaches and nearshore waters of solid wastes, especially non- got acquainted with the city’s treasure, the Hundred Islands National Park,
degradable plastics. It further re-introduced the collection, segregation and through their thrilling tasks, which included clam seeding and clean up,
safe disposal of home, commercial and industrial wastes coupled with an rope traversing in Quezon Island and a cave jump at Marcos Island.
information campaign on best practices in protecting and preserving a healthy Aside from PBB, other global networks such as CNN,
environment. Lonely Planet, and Living Asia and local TV programs like
The dividends are slowly coming in. Rated K hosted by Korina Sanchez and Trip Na Trip bannered
Reef fishes have returned to their breeding grounds after the coral reefs by Kartherine de Castro (daughter of Vice Noli de Castro),
got installed in previously destroyed areas. Even dolphins have been seen Franzen Fajardo, Uma Khuony and Jason Gaiza have
and photographed by tourists. On clear days and clam waters, the distinctly recently featured the environmental conservation and
green reflection of the giant clams are seen above water. protection programs being made at the Hundred Islands
Migratory birds that shied away from the islands when these were National Park.
frequently invaded by predatory humans have returned, some of them to And from all indications, people and visitors have
mate, nest and multiply. Bird watching has been added to a widening option slowly realized and started to abide by nature’s law of
of treats for nature loving visitors. justice, karma and rebirth.

18. GG
ood governance leads to sustained growth
and development. In the past, the term
‘sustainable development’ was a corporate
franchise of the non governmental organizations
(NGOs). Today, local government executives have
learned to embrace it as a guidepost in serving
their constituents and charting a road map for their
locality.
Thus declared Alaminos City Mayor Hernani “Nani”
Agsalud Braganza whose vast experience in governance
from councilor, congressman, Agrarian Reform and Press
Secretary and Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs to
city mayor and coupled with his dynamic leadership and
correct political sense, have remarkably pushed Alaminos
City to greater heights. It has been growing rapidly through
increase in trade, commerce and tourism industry.
But Mayor Braganza wants to achieve more in terms
of social and business progress. He envisions a growing
city with its people participating in social and economic
activities so that they themselves can benefit more from
growth and development. In perspective, Mayor Braganza
dreams of Alaminos City as a competitive center for
industry, commerce and services, and a safe and humane
place to live in.
“We are beginning to realize the kind of development
we aspire for. We are determined to make it happen. We
hope to succeed. So our people can benefit more. And
we can contribute to the development of the whole country.
This will be our legacy,” said Braganza.
Indeed, he is one good and hard working public
servant. His determination will certainly pave the way for
the economic boom of Alaminos City and its people.
Coming from a strong political clan in Pangasinan,
noted for conscientious and dedicated public service, Nani
Braganza is a nephew of former Pangasinan Governor
Enrique Braganza, former Mayor and Labor Secretary
Agapito Braganza and former Mayor Juan Braganza - all
elder brothers of Dr. Pedro Braganza who also once
served as municipal mayor. He is a nephew of former
Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos. Nani’s mother, Purita
Agsalud, was the daughter of Pura Agsalud, younger
sister of former Assemblyman, Foreign Affairs Secretary
and Ambassador Narciso Rueca Ramos, father of
President Ramos. In their respective times in public
service, they have steered the province of Pangasinan
and country forward with Nani continuing the remarkable
legacy bequathed by his elders.
Mayor Braganza is no new in public office. He was
a two-termer unopposed Congressman of the first
congressional district of Pangasinan. Soon after, he was
appointed as Secretary of the Department of Agrarian
Reform (DAR) under President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo
in 2001, and subsequently named Press Secretary and
Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs before he returned
home to Alaminos City and run for Mayor in May 2004.

19. During his term as Congressman, his district hosted
the US$2-billion 1,200 Megawatt coal-fired thermal plant
in Sual town completed in 1997 under the term of
President Fidel Valdez Ramos.
Known for his pro-poor stance, then Congressman
Braganza launched the Bayanihan 2020 Development
Program for the first district of Pangasinan comprising
the 10 towns in western Pangasinan, namely: Alaminos,
Agno, Anda, Bani, Burgos, Bolinao, Dasol, Infanta,
Mabini, and Sual.
Bayanihan 2020 is a development blueprint calling
for the harnessing of resources of the first district,
which is noted for its rich natural resources and
attributes, especially the world-famous Hundred Islands.
He also launched a series of successful promotional
and marketing programs to promote his district and
province such as the “One Pangasinan” Photo, Food
and Trade Festival in Metro Manila and the annual
Hundred Islands Festival.
He is one of the foremost advocates of the “One
Pangasinan” Movement, a battle cry of the Assemblyman
Narciso Ramos, who fought against the proposed
fragmentation of the province into smaller provinces, to
avoid the unfortunate experience of many
“gerrymandered” provinces. has Ocho-Ocho, an innovative program which clusters
It is also in the spirit of Bayanihan that Mayor small landholdings into farm management and
Braganza enjoins his constituents to closely work enterprise units for crops, livestock, fisheries,
together to bring back the old glory of Hundred Islands. capability and technology training, capital assistance, “We are beginning
“We are beginning
Admittedly, he said, in the past decade Hundred marketing, and environment management. This is an
Islands lost its glitter. Once the premier land and sea integrated, people-oriented agricultural development to realize the kind
to realize the kind
tourism destination in the entire Luzon mainland, it and modernization program.
Braganza plans to do more in infrastructure
of development
of development
suffered setbacks due to the emergence of many
alternative destinations in the south, some boasting of development to improve access to power, safe water we aspire for. We
we aspire for. We
unparalleled beach quality. Worse, its marine life is
threatened due to proliferation of illegal fishing activities.
services and markets for their produce thereby making
Alaminos City a competitive center of industry,
are determined to
are determined to
“But we are determined to bring back the magic of commerce and services. make it happen.
make it happen.
the Hundred Islands, and its underwater life. We have
put together a Coastal Resources Management
In retrospect, Mayor Braganza has outlined a 10-
point agenda for its city. These include: Tourism, Basic
We hope to
We hope to
Program, which combines rehabilitation, conservation, Services, Agriculture, Public Order, Environment, succeed. So our
succeed. So our
protection, stewardship, responsible use and economic
alternatives to restore the health of the marine
Infrastructure, Development, Investment and Marketing,
Human Resource Development and Good Governance.
people can benefit
people can benefit
ecosystem,” Mayor Braganza said. “We set the standards of service to our people to more. And we can
more. And we can
The city mayor has implemented some innovative
measures to protect its natural resources. He envisions
enable us to provide the quality of life we hope to
deliver. We exert extra effort to help us achieve the
contribute to the
contribute to the
a marine theme park, fish sanctuaries, inter-island goals and the targets we set to do. We aspire to define development of
development of
the whole country.
the whole country.
floating “bridges,” a living Marine Institute, an “adopt- our governance in professional terms. We have a
an-island” scheme so that the park will no longer be development paradigm. Competitiveness, growth with
just a sand and sea destination. equity, resource management and sustainable use, This will be our
This will be our
legacy,”
social services for all and safety nets for the
legacy,”
“It will also be an ecological theme park with
educational value. And adventure, too. It will be unique, vulnerable form the cornerstones of our development
and unparalleled once more. It is, after all, the largest paradigm. We will respond to the development
marine sanctuary in the Philippines,” he added. challenges in Alaminos City guided by this
In terms of agriculture, the city is bent on developing development paradigm. We are convinced we can
its farming industry through its Bayanihan Integrated make it happen. We have the resolve, a new-found
Program for Sustainable Agriculture (BIPSA) or more dynamism and a shared vision. And to top it all, we
popularly known as Agri-Volution. The said program have an able work force,” Braganza said.

20. II n the mid-90s, Southern Luzon, popularized by the acronym
CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal) was successfully
marketed by the administration of former Philippine President
Fidel. V. Ramos as the Philippines investment location of choice in
the last decade. It now hosts a wide range of industries led by
electronics, semiconductors, machine parts, electric wirings and
garments, mostly focused on exports.
On one hand, the northern half of Luzon outside the congested
Metro Manila has been positioned to be the new century’s boom
area. These make up the provinces in Central and Northern Luzon of
which the province of Pangasinan is at its vortex and the biggest. It
was dubbed as the North Quadrangle Development Area or
NORTHQUAD
The new growth region is well prepared to assume that role. It
now boasts of three international airports opened for cross-country
chartered passenger flights and unlimited cargo air shipments. These
include the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport at the former
Clark Airbase in Pampanga being developed as the logistics hub of
East Asia, the Subic International Airport inside the Subic Freeport in
Olongapo City, Zambales and the Laoag International Airport in Ilocos
Norte.
Its two international seaports at the former American Naval Bases
of Subic and Poro Point in San Fernando City, La Union can
accommodate large cargo ships including oil tankers. These will be
joined soon by Port Irene off Cagayan Province being developed as
the new international gateway to the Pacific side of Northern Luzon.
In recent years, two large and cost-competitive power plants
were built by the Ramos administration, a 1,200 megawatt coal plant
in Sual close to the city of Alaminos, and the 350 megawatt San
Roque hydro-electric dam in the town of San Manuel, both in
Pangasinan.
As host province, Pangasinan, can assure investors reliable and
cost-competitive wholesale power rates until the next decade.
The NORTHQUAD area has, since the nineties, a network of
the best all-weather road network in the country. The network is set
to be expanded and made more efficient with the scheduled
completion of the Subic to Tarlac superhighway next year. It has a No other city in the Philippines
modern and expanding landline and mobile telecommunications
facilities practically covering all provinces.
These, plus and highly educated, easy to train labor force backed other than Alaminos, and maybe few in
by a network of technical schools and public and private colleges
and universities, provide the basic physical and human infrastructure
necessary to spur rapid development. the world, holds the distinction of
The new development zone took the identity as the Northern
Quadrangle Development Area or NORTHQUAD and positioned to
be linked up directly to the booming economies of East and South
having a globally known tourist spot,
Asia led by Japan, China and India.
In the latest state-of-the-nation-address of President Gloria the Hundred Islands.
Macapagal-Arroyo, it has been dubbed as one of the five super-
regions that enjoy top priority in the dispersal of industries to the less
developed portions of the Philippine Islands.

21. An area made up of four administrative regions occupying half
of Luzon offers a smorgasbord of investment prospects from gold
mining to sea farming and food processing. Each province has its
own strengths and potential niche in the investment market.
The main problem in the past was the dearth of information on
what those provinces have to offer to local or foreign investors —
big, medium and small.
The shortcoming is getting corrected as a cash-strapped
government hammers up partnerships with the private groups in
evolving more focused investment promotions initiatives for the
super-region.
One such initiative was the drawing up last year of a tourism
investment program for the Ilocos - Cordillera tourist corridor that
includes the province of Pangasinan, and its premier tourist
destination the Hundred Islands of Alaminos City.
Why and where to invest in Alaminos City?
No other city in the Philippines other than Alaminos, and maybe
few in the world, holds the distinction of having a globally known
tourist spot, the Hundred Islands, while the host city remains in
relative obscurity.
The city is dead set, however, to ride on its unique natural allure
as its trademark in earning a bigger niche in the tourism trade. It is no
wonder that the city government has been strongly pushing for
investments anchored on eco-tourism.
It has succeeded in getting the services of Palafox Associates
(see related story in the next page). Prior to Palafox, the city leaders
from its first city mayor to the incumbent have evolved an investment
zoning plan that divides the city for focused investments based on
the strengths of clusters of villages or barangays.
The city has been divided into seven investment zones.
Four coastal villages outside the protected area that covers the
Hundred Islands have been classified for aqua-marine-based
industries.
A larger segment of the town made up of six other coastal villages
fronting the popular islands make up the tourism zone.
The rolling-hill barangays nearby of four villages have been set
aside for commercial forest plantations, orchards, recreation and
amusement parks.
Three barangays in the downtown area is the commercial center,
and behind it, in two sparsely populated section of the city, light
industries are to be built.
Still the widest section that make up the rest of the inland area
and suburbs, are devoted to agriculture, 26 barangays in all.
Sixteen of them flatland, both irrigated and rain-fed, are devoted
to rice, corn and other high value farm crops while the rolling hills
are for livestock raising and orchards.
Out-of-the Box Tourism
The city government gained direct management of the Hundred
Islands National Park from the Philippine Tourism Authority on
September 29, 2005 by virtue of Executive Order No. 436 issued by
President Gloria Arroyo last June 24, 2005 transferring the
management, administration and maintenance of the HINP to
Alaminos City. The city government has focused on tourism as its
flagship investment area. It has expanded the tourist zone to include
Bolo Beach, Telbang and Victoria for resorts, retirement villages and
other nature-friendly investment projects fronting the island clusters.

22. As the crowd of guests drawn in multiply, support services and micro
and small industries have been anticipated and encouraged to mushroom.
I
t has poured in public resources for additional cottages on some of the islands, floating bridges across
some of the islands, renovated existing pavilions and upgraded other support facilities to add comfort to
visitors. It is also professionalizing services in the acquired hotel, restaurant and other facilities turned
over by the Philippine Tourism Authority.
It has likewise lined up the building of the Lucap Wharf Boardwalk project that will serve as a viewing point,
promenade park and common eating place for tourists.
The accent in the out-of-the-box tourism development for Alaminos City is in ecotourism.
It has lined a plethora of water sports, old and new festivals, spelunking, bird watching and other fun-filled
and outdoor activities that are meant to attract a bigger number of daily foreign and local tourists at reasonable
rates. Ongoing festivals include the City Fiesta and Homecoming, Hundred Island Summer Camp, Images of the
Hundred Islands, and Island Adventures.
As guests multiply, support services and micro and small industries have been anticipated and encouraged to
mushroom. These include food, souvenir items, water sports paraphernalia and about every item or services to
answer the needs of guests.
The bigger ticket and medium investments would be in beach resorts, shopping and rental centers, recreational
facilities, specialty restaurants, hotels, inns and vacation and retirement villages, tour and travel services, and other
institutional services to foreign and high-end local tourists.
The strategic investments lined up include: the Hundred Islands Underwater Marine Theme Park; the roll-
on, roll-off seaport in Victoria; the Alaminos Regional Airport at Alos; a potable water project; expansion of
telecommunications facilities; real estate development catering to tourists and a growing and getting more affluent
population and world-class hotels and resorts.
Commerce and Light Industries
The city government has drawn a plan for the construction of an integrated bus terminal and supermarket in
preparation to the influx of tourists as a result of the on-going tourism development program and projects.
The terminal and market would not only expand commerce and trade in the city but will be the unifying
economic activity that ties together all the investment zones. The market will serve as the wholesale outlet of the
farm and fishery sectors, the distribution center of consumer and other basic goods for satellite towns, a multi-
sport gymnasium and information center for tourists, and the immediate outlet for slight industries that would
locate in the city.
The light industries have been envisioned to add value to the products and services of the farming and aqua-
marine culture communities. Some are seen to engage in food processing and storage and other light industries
that draw strengths from the resources and produce of the city and nearby towns. But also welcomed are
knowledge-based industries like call centers and business process outsourcing outfits.
Farm and Forestry
The city leaders have prepared its rural residents to the challenges of the new economic order by clustering
farmers into groups of larger production units tilling eight hectares each employing modern and environment-
friendly methods, and raising high value crops at economies of scale. This has prepared them for partnerships with established or new fresh and processed
food companies including restaurant chains and exporters.
Orchards and tree plantations are being pushed either to be developed for farming hobbyist to enjoy an active and fulfilling rural life in a tourist town
with the basic comforts of modern society, wood-based industries that are running out of wood and other forest-based raw materials and plain nature lovers
who want to share, not only enjoy, a natural, safe and healthy habitat.
To complete the food self-sufficiency programs of the city and its satellite towns, its farming industry is enhanced through its Bayanihan Integrated
Program for Sustainable Agriculture (BIPSA) or more popularly known as Agri-Volution aimed at creating a new green revolution and a vibrant livestock and
poultry industry which forms part of the integrated development plan. Investments could be small, home-based and family-owned, or medium, corporate or
contract farming with the big players.
Fishery
The fishery resources are opened for the creative investors as the city fine-tunes its coastal management plan. The bottom line is the sustainability, people-
oriented and environment friendliness of the investment project, be it a fishpond, a fish pen, a seaweed farm, a cultured pearl farm or storage or canning
projects.
Good Governance
The city has been putting in place a system of governance that is investment and business friendly. It is a system of processing
business related permits and licenses that is cheap, fast and without hidden costs through the employment of information
technology and a pool of public servants trained to help make business prosper.
At the end of the day, excellent governance in any city or town equals progress with equity and sustainable development.
The Road Ahead
Much of what have been planned at building a modern green city are still dreams, not yet on the ground. The
logistical needs are enormous. City leaders realize that on their own, the people of Alaminos could
accomplish only so much. With partners in the rest of the Philippines and elsewhere, much more
can be done, and done fast.
The city leaders have therefore decided to seek partners among development institutions,
believers, tourism entrepreneurs, developers, international hotel chains and
those who are convinced that investing in nature-friendly projects
is worth the risk, and a smart business decision to preserve
undeniably the world’s eight greatest wonder, the Hundred
Islands.

27. Make It Alaminos!
It’s not just one of the nicest places in the planet.
Alaminos is THE PLACE.
It is Home to the Hundred Islands National Park…
Where one can swim on its azure blue waters…
Walk on its white sand beaches….
Marvel at its natural wonders…
Reflect on God’s Perfect Creation…
Commune in serenity with Mother Nature.
In Alaminos, one will be captivated by its rich array of seafood,
native cakes and unique culinary dishes.
One will also be enamored by its strategic location, its combination of rustic and
urban living and its people’s collective quest to preserve, protect and conserve its
rich natural resources.
Other than the 8th wonder of the world, the other greatest asset of Alaminos is its
people - so far the warmest, friendliest and most hospitable human beings on this
part of the globe.
Its readiness to open again its doors to the world and its arms to potential partners
in progress and development is proof positive of its determined bid to make
Alaminos the new global tourist destination.
Alaminos City Magazine is produced by Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. for the City of Alaminos (Office of Mayor Hernani Braganza)
Overall Concept by Melandrew T. Velasco. Creative Design Concepts by Michelle M. Cabrera. Editorial by Abraham Belena and Donna G. Brazas.
Layout Consultant Albert Agpalasin. Layout Artist George Agcanas. Printed by Media Touchstone Ventures, Inc. All Rights Reserved October 2006

28. City of Alaminos, Philippines - Home of the Hundred Islands
Quezon Avenue, Poblacion, Alaminos City, 2404 Pangasinan, Philippines
(63.75) 552.7777 | 551.2145 | 551.2146 | 551.2147
www.alaminoscity.gov.ph
info@alaminoscity.gov.ph