Burgos, officially the Municipality of Burgos (; ), is a municipality in La Union, Philippines, named after the Filipino martyr Father Jose Burgos. According to the , it has a population of people making it the least populated municipality in the province.

The town is known for its production of colored soft brooms made from tiger grass.

Etymology

left|thumb|231x231px|Padre José Burgos

The town was named after Padre José Burgos, a Filipino priest, educator, and nationalist who was a prominent figure in the Philippine movement for independence from Spanish colonial rule. According to local tradition, Padre Burgos sought refuge in the town while fleeing Spanish persecution and officiated a mass at Sitio Domingo in Agpay, leaving a lasting influence in the community.

The roots of the settlement trace back to a swampy region known as Desdes or Disdis, a Nabaloi word meaning "to roll up pants or sleeves," which reflected the area's swampy nature. The name referred to the locals' need to wade through the numerous springs, creeks, and rivers that meandered through the region. In the Iloco language, Desdes also means "big spring", emphasizing the importance of water sources in shaping the area's identity.

During the Spanish colonial period in the 1700s, a group of immigrants from Ilocos and Pangasinan settled along the shores of La Union and began migrating to the town of Bauang. Due to population growth, they followed the river's winding path in search of new land and eventually discovered a fertile valley along the riverbank, which they named Naguilian. They continued eastward following the river, to the highland and eventually established the settlement that became present-day Burgos.

At this time, the area was divided into two major ranchería settlements: Rancheria Disdis in the northwest and Rancheria Galiano in the south. Despite their diverse origins, these groups coexisted peacefully, creating a strong sense of community. The integration of highland and lowland cultures contributed to a unique identity that would persist for years.

| date = 26 April 2020

Demographics

According to the 2020 Philippine Statistics Authority census, the population of Burgos, La Union, is recorded at 9,006 individuals. The population density is calculated at 130 inhabitants per square kilometer, or 340 inhabitants per square mile.

The growth rate for the town is 1.63% with the largest age group is children aged 5 to 9, while the senior population (70 years and above) is the smallest.

The town has 8 public elementary schools, and 3 public secondary schools.

Primary and elementary schools

  • Agpay Elementary School
  • Bilis Elementary School
  • Burgos Central Elementary School
  • Delles Elementary School
  • Libtong Integrated School
  • Linuan Elementary School
  • Tumapoc Elementary School
  • Upper Tumapoc Elementary School

Secondary schools

  • Burgos National High School
  • Burgos National High School - Annex
  • Libtong Integrated School

Economy

Agriculture

The town's economy is predominantly centered around agriculture. Fertile land supports a wide range of crops that include rice, root crops, tobacco, corn, pineapples, bananas, and various highland vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and potatoes. These crops are essential to the livelihood of many residents and serve as the primary source of income. Livestock farming is also part of the local economy, with poultry, pigs, and cattle being raised alongside crops. Additionally, fishing specifically aquaculture, trade, and small-scale industries supplement agricultural activities, contributing to the town's overall economic framework.

Tourism

Burgos is primarily a transit town but offers notable attractions that make it a worthwhile stop for travelers. Among its most famous sites are the Bolikewkew Rice Terraces, which are known for their scenic beauty and cultural significance, and Imelda Lake, a tranquil spot that draws visitors for relaxation. Dalacdac Dam also attracts those interested in nature and outdoor activities. Although tourism is not yet a dominant industry, the town's natural beauty, including lush foliage and cool climate, provides ample opportunities for eco-tourism. The cool climate of Burgos, one of the coolest in the province, is an added draw for hikers and nature enthusiasts, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a refreshing escape in a serene environment.

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! Position

! Name

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| Congressman

| style="text-align:center;" | Dante S. Garcia

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| Mayor

| style="text-align:center;" | Delfin C. Comedis, Jr.

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|Vice-Mayor

| style="text-align:center;" | Annie A. Patinglag

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|rowspan=8| Councilors

| style="text-align:center;" | Mario C. Martinez

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| style="text-align:center;" | Efren A. Hidalgo

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| style="text-align:center;" | Marlon C. Gumba

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| style="text-align:center;" | Dante C. Cabinto

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| style="text-align:center;" | Betty Jean L. Arsitio

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| style="text-align:center;" | Domingo G. Abansi

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| style="text-align:center;" | Alano N. Gascon

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| style="text-align:center;" | Daniel N. Nisperos

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Major roads

  • Naguilian Road

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|<gallery widths="200" heights="150">

File:Fvf0001 09.JPG|Welcome arch

File:FvfBurgosLaUnion0431 32.JPG|Municipal hall

File:FvfBurgosLaUnion0431 42.JPG|Legislative building

File:FvfLaUnion0480 14.JPG|Our Lady of Fatima Parish Church

File:FvfBurgosLaUnion0431 20.JPG|Municipal Health Center

File:Burgos Central School, Burgos, La Union, April 2023.jpg|Burgos Central School

</gallery>

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References

  • [ Philippine Standard Geographic Code]
  • Philippine Census Information
  • Local Governance Performance Management System