Kabataang Elyucano Rekindle Sweet Iloco Heritage of Pulitipot Making
By: La Union Provincial Tourism Office | Photos By: Lovely Bautista and Geraldine Soriano, PIO-OJT | Date: April 21-24, 2025
In a vibrant display of cultural preservation and youth empowerment, the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU), through the Provincial Tourism Office, successfully implemented the Pulitipot ti Puli: Localized School of Living Traditions on April 21-24, 2025, in partnership with the Municipality of Bacnotan.
The four-day program brought together 10 culture bearers and selected youth participants from Bacnotan to revitalize the traditional practice of pulitipot or molasses making which is a significant part of the Ilokano culinary and cultural heritage.
Throughout the immersion, youth participants engaged in traditional practices such as sugarcane planting, coconut leaf weaving, patupat and pulitipot making, and sinakob preparation guided by local culture bearers that highlighted Ilokano ingenuity and heritage. The program culminated in a planning and reflection session, where the participants shared insights and formally established the Sirmata ti Agtutubo a Mangipablaak ken Ipayso ti Tawid or SAM-IT, a youth association, committed to preserving and promoting their cultural traditions for future generations.
In support of the youth and the program’s objectives, Hon. Divina C. Fontanilla, Municipal Mayor of Bacnotan, La Union; Ms. Cheresa L. Sison, Municipal Tourism Officer; and Mr. Julius A. Manabat, Officer-In-Charge of the La Union Provincial Tourism Office, delivered inspiring messages during the culmination program. They encouraged the youth to value their roots and assured them of continued support in sustaining local traditions.
The awarding of certificates of participation to the youth and certificates of appreciation to the culture bearers capped the event.
The Provincial Government of La Union and Gov. Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David extends their gratitude to the Municipality of Bacnotan for their partnership, and to the culture bearers who passionately shared their expertise. Pulitipot ti Puli stands as a testament to La Union’s commitment to its vision of becoming the Heart of Agri-Tourism in Northern Luzon, ensuring that cultural identity remains vibrant and deeply rooted among the youth.
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