Tinakayanan Falls, Mt. San Isidro, and Sawali represent different themes in the municipality of Labrador: trails to the waterfalls, a high elevation, and local production. These are complemented by an annual Sawali celebration and a history dating back to 1754. You can tailor your travel interests to specific themes—landscape, craftsmanship, or historical context.
Waterfalls and Mountain
Several trails lead to Tinakayanan Falls, each with different challenges. Choosing a trail is therefore one of the municipality’s specific nature-related considerations. A deeper pool lies at the lower part of the falls; swimming there is difficult because of an adjacent underwater cave and strong currents. A shallower pool is located above. The trail requirements and different pool areas offer two distinct points of reference for understanding the waterfalls.
Mt. San Isidro is considered the highest mountain in Pangasinan and rises 2,450 feet above sea level. The falls are defined by their trails and pools, while the mountain is distinguished by its elevation and status in the province. The nature-related themes therefore differ not only in name: they offer different perspectives on the municipality, without implying a shared route.
Sawali, Bamboo, and Local Work
Sawali production is an important livelihood for locals in the municipality of Labrador, thanks to the abundant bamboo. Broom-making and the Sawali weaving industry are also associated with Labrador. The annual Sawali Festival is dedicated to the municipality’s most lucrative product. Production, the weaving industry, and the festival thus reflect the same local focus from different angles.
For travelers interested in local work as well as the landscape, Sawali offers a specific cultural point of connection. The theme links the available raw material, bamboo, with an important livelihood and a recurring festival. This offers a way to consider the municipality not only through its natural features but also through its craftsmanship and festival tradition.
History and Parish Church
The municipality was initially known as San Isidro Labrador. It was founded in 1754 under Captain Vicente Escano, became an independent municipality in 1939, and was renamed Labrador through Republic Act No. 2390. These milestones trace the municipality’s development through several historical steps: from its former name and founding to its later municipal independence and renaming.
St. Isidore the Farmer Parish Church is considered a landmark in the municipality of Labrador. It is dedicated to Saint Isidore the Farmer, who is considered the patron saint of Madrid. Father Joseph Gallagher worked on repairs to the church from 1952 to 1954. The dedication and repair period offer two distinct historical connections: the religious background of the name and a specific period in the church’s history.
Accommodation and Amenities
Covelandia Du Labrador Beach Resort is located in Brgy. Tobuan, Labrador. The resort has pools, slides, and a Jacuzzi, as well as an event hall overlooking Tobuan Beach, the Viewdeck Bar, and the Taberna Restaurant. Facilities and businesses may change; check which offerings are currently available before visiting.
Discover more destinations: Agno, San Fabian, Dagupan, Bauang, Pagudpud, Alaminos, Currimao, Burgos.
For the broader travel overview: Ilocos.
