Love my neighbor

By Wilna Memorial

Pangasinan and La Union are neighboring provinces in Northern Luzon. With their geographical position, it is but natural that the two provinces create a special kind of friendship, a friendship that is embraced by the people from both provinces.

I am from La Union, born and grew in La Union, but I am proud to say that most of my close and loyal friends are from Pangasinan. Some I met during high school days but most of them I met in college.

Befriending other people from another province, like Pangasinan, has proven to be such a joy. You’ll learn about their culture, a different language, and taste new delicacies from a land that is so close yet different from that which I have been accustomed to.

And getting to travel and visit their place is also a benefit. In Pangasinan, I have been to corners where I found serenity and joy.

Here, I’ve tasted bangus in delicious ways that I believe only the hands of Pangasinenses can prepare. We do get the same fish in La Union, but once you have it on the table and tasted it in Pangasinan, you’ll realize that it is “only in Pangasinan”.

Just like the famous puto (rice cake) of Calasiao and the mangoes of San Carlos – I believe only the people of Calasiao can produce those special little white delights and only the warm, green hands of the people in San Carlos can grow those sweet mangoes.

I’ve learned and familiarized myself with a bit of the Pangasinan language, though it is nice to know that many Pangasinenses also know my language, Ilocano.

I’ve also visited some of the famous landmarks here such as the Hundred Islands in Alaminos City, said a prayer to Our Lady of Manaoag, and gone shopping in the malls in Dagupan City. I also very much enjoyed the wonderful Leisure Coast in Bonuan.

I am happy and excited to hear news about the planned ferry service between Alaminos, Dagupan and San Fernando City, the capital town of my province. Hopefully soon going to my favorite spots in Pangasinan will be easier and faster!

It is wonderful to know that the mayors of these three cities are closely working together to introduce new developments in these parts that would benefit the people here and also the local and foreign tourists.

I am lucky to have Pangasinense friends with whom I can just be myself all the time, whom I can call on to in both good and bad times. They are my most loyal friends and from whom I find comfort and trust.

They always support me in my decisions, but at the same time not afraid to speak out their thoughts and leave me with advice. I must say they are my best advisers. They are great companions and never leave me hanging all alone in the air.

Actually an organization in school, which is the UP Subol Society, an organization of Pangasinan UP students, wanted me to join them, if only I am a Pangasinanense.

Nonetheless, Pangasinan is a place always close to my heart.

(Readers may reach columnist at marifijara@gmail.com. For past columns, click http://sundaypunch.prepys.com/archives/category/opinion/roots/
For reactions to this column, click “Send MESSAGES, OPINIONS, COMMENTS” on default page.)

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