RANIAG Region 1 Creative Tour Showcases Merly’s Bagoong in Lingayen

The rich culinary heritage of Lingayen took center stage as the “Rediscover Artistry, Nurture Identity, and Accelerate Growth” (RANIAG) Region 1 Creative Tour made a special stop in the town, featuring the renowned Merly’s Bagoong (MM Bagoong) located in Barangay Pangapisan North and owned and managed by Mr. Menandro Molano.
The visiting group was composed of representatives from the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), alongside chefs, artists, vloggers, media practitioners, visual artists, and travel and tour operators, among others. Their visit underscored the importance of promoting Region I’s creative industries, particularly the unique food products that define the cultural identity of local communities.
During the visit, Mr. Molano shared the story of Merly’s Bagoong, a well-known product in Lingayen and nearby areas. Famous for its authentic taste and traditional way of making, MM Bagoong has become both a favorite food ingredient and a source of livelihood for many locals. The group also saw how it is made and learned about its importance in Pangasinan cuisine and culture.
The RANIAG Region 1 Creative Tour is an initiative of the DOT and DTI aimed at showcasing the region’s diverse creative assets, ranging from food and crafts to performing and visual arts. It provides a platform for local enterprises to gain exposure and connect with wider markets, while also encouraging collaboration among tourism stakeholders and creative professionals.
Supporting this endeavor is the Local Government Unit of Lingayen, under the leadership of Mayor Josefina V. Castaneda, who has expressed her full commitment to uplifting local enterprises, cultural heritage, and creative industries. Through the Lingayen Tourism, Culture, and Arts Office (LTCAO), the LGU continues to assist local entrepreneurs and promote products that highlight the town’s identity as a cultural and culinary hub in Pangasinan.
The Lingayen stop of the creative tour not only celebrated bagoong as a culinary treasure but also reaffirmed the town’s role in the region’s creative economy. As Mayor Castañeda emphasized, “Supporting our homegrown products like Merly’s Bagoong is not just about business, it is about preserving our heritage and sharing the taste and identity of Lingayen with the world.”
With the success of the Region 1 Creative Tour’s visit, Lingayen’s bagoong producers, artists, and cultural workers remain hopeful for greater recognition and stronger support, ensuring that their crafts and traditions continue to thrive for generations to come. (MVR)
Photos by LTCAO_TDizon
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