Street Art: San Juan, La Union

Another series of street art hunting and we are heading north of the Philippines in the small town of San Juan, La Union (Elyu). With it’s tall and unbroken waves, San Juan is hailed as the “surfing capital of the North”. Last December 2019, San Juan hosted the surfing competition for the Southeast Asian Games. It was a historic event as this is the first appearance of surfing in the SEA games.

During the ’90s, San Juan is a sleepy agricultural town and traditional pottery makers. The beaches are mostly for the residents and neighboring towns and was never a popular tourist destination. Hardly any hotels, hipster cafes, shops, and restaurants along the beach strip of San Juan. Currently, San Juan together with Siargao is one of the top surfing hotspots in the country and has become one of the favorite year-round destinations for weekend travelers. The once-sleepy town of San Juan has transformed into a vibrant and busy destination in La Union.

San Juan is located 270 kilometers north of Metro Manila.

San Juan

Street Art in Urbiztondo

Street art in San Juan is largely located in Urbiztondo. Empty abandoned walls, parking lot, and establishments are covered with vibrant and cool art murals. Very instagrammable! Street art in La Union is not that big compared to other places, but it’s thriving. Hoping for more creative artwork on my next visit.

Most of the murals started during the MAKA Fest 2017 where music and arts are celebrated. According to their official Facebook page, “Maka is a celebration of the Sub-Culture. A gathering of arts, music, and life enthusiasts who engage with the community with all its a process”.

Resist, Exist! (2017)

Mural by: Alelia Ariola & Calligraphy by AJ Tabino
Location: Pentecostal Parking Lot

“I’d like to empower people especially women to roar louder, not only for themselves but also for others.” – Alelia Ariola