By Cherrie Ann S. Pintado
In the small municipality of Bagulin, La Union, the quiet mountain village of Tagudtud, where I was born and raised, hides a special spot, a cozy little area that is a wind-blown secret: the Kudal People’s Park. Since childhood, I remember this place as a place for relaxation where my friends and I would hang out, eat guavas, and play around.
This place is recognized as one of the highest peaks in Bagulin. It is surrounded by several towns: San Gabriel to the north, San Juan to the northwest, the City of San Fernando to the west, Naguilian to the southeast, Burgos to the south, and Kapangan in Benguet province to the east. This serene park offers a beautiful retreat into nature, giving a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its pine trees, rolling hills, and misty skies, Kudal is not just a scenic destination; it is a peaceful experience that soothes the mind and uplifts the spirit.
A resident originally owned the place, and the barangay later purchased it,” said Ignacio Balagot, an elder in our community and president of the senior citizen organization of Tagudtud. He said it used to be a pasture area for cows and carabaos because of its big grassy open space. He also stated that the place has been called Kudal since he was young. When the barangay acquired it, they improved it by planting pine trees and flowers, and because the space was wide, it became an important gathering place for the community. It was often used as a venue for various barangay events, including assemblies, annual thanksgiving celebrations, weddings, birthdays, seminars, grand reunions, and other activities. “Lugar ay mapmapteng ay pan -esestoryaan ya pan aalibayan” (It is a nice place to meet and connect), Mr.Balagot added. Even though it was not as well-known as it is now, Kudal Park was already a significant place where families, friends, and community members gathered to celebrate important events and strengthen their connections.
Barangay Tagudtud fb page / Residents of Barangay Tagudtud come together for their annual Thanksgiving Day celebration at Kudal People’s Park, honoring community, culture, and gratitude. Image used with permission from the barangay/community.
Kudal gained recognition when tourism became a goal of La Union; it was discovered, advertised, and later led to the building of a two-way concrete road. It is also a good thing for our community. Because of its cool weather and eco-friendly environment, it was called Kudal Park, the local name; some people call it the “Burnham Park of Bagulin”. Some people called it the “Little Baguio of La Union.” Captain Melandro Canor said visitors gave those names because of the area’s natural beauty and its weather.
The place is about 6 kilometers from Bagulin’s town center, is on one of the highest points, and offers amazing views of the nearby mountains, rice terraces, and the West Philippine Sea. Going to the park is an experience in itself because of its winding and uphill road, with the scenery changing slowly. Green mountains and the air become noticeably fresher with each turn. Flowers grow along the road, and occasionally, a distant carabao grazes on grass, showcasing the park’s rural, natural setting to visitors. It is not the easiest trip, but it slowly takes you away from the distractions of modern life. As you go up, you can feel the cool air on your skin. In 2022, Kudal Park became famous. Local people pay five pesos to enter, while tourists pay ten pesos. Julie Esnara, the Barangay Treasurer, said December had the most visitors, with an estimated two thousand people and earnings of twenty thousand pesos.
Good food, great company, and beautiful views. Nothing beats sharing simple moments, laughter, and memories with wonderful people surrounded by nature in Kudal. Image used with permission.
Kudal People’s Park doesn’t draw attention to itself with gaudy structures or man-made attractions. Rather, its inherent simplicity communicates beauty. The park’s ambiance is one of quiet reflection. At the center of the park stands a small gazebo, where visitors often gather to rest, take photos, or simply sit in silence. From this vantage point, the mountain vistas unfold dramatically. On a clear day is a view of the rugged terrain of nearby Benguet, with Mount Sto. Tomas looming in the distance like a guardian watching over the highlands. On misty mornings, the park is wrapped in fog, giving it a mystical, dreamlike atmosphere—as if suspended between sky and earth
The feel of Kudal is different and soothes the senses. The air is immediately reviving, a subtle perfume of damp earth and pine. The wind is cool, sometimes hard, and a wave is always soft on the skin. You hear the soft sounds of birds chirping, rustling leaves, and the occasional laughter from a group of friends having a picnic outside. Time appears to move more slowly here, which is good for attention and recreation.
Barangay Tagudtud & Tagudtud Youth Organization fb page/ Young members of the community proudly showcase their traditional attire and cultural heritage at Kudal People’s Park, celebrating unity, identity, and pride in their traditions. Image used with permission.
In Kudal, while you sat on the grass and ran your fingers through its cold blades, the fog swirled over the trees. There were no concrete buildings, no pushy tourists, and no need to get the perfect photo. It was just raw and real. As the afternoon went on, the temperature dropped a bit, and the park was filled with the soft orange light of the setting sun.
As the sun sets over Kudal, the golden sky and quiet silhouettes of the trees create a breathtaking view, reflecting the natural beauty and peaceful charm of our community.
Indeed, this park is not just a tourist spot; it is a source of our pride and a part of who we are, rooted in the mountains. It shows our connection to the land that has supported many generations, to nature, and to our ancestors. It symbolizes our ties to the land that has supported generations, to nature, and to our ancestors. For tourists, it’s an opportunity to escape daily life and take in the fresh air, but for us, Kudal People’s Park is more than a place of tranquility—it is a treasure that represents our culture, heritage, and community spirit. It is a place where memories are created, traditions are celebrated, and people come together as one. Kudal People’s Park truly stands as a symbol of our barangay’s identity, honor, and unity. It is more than just a park—it is home.
A typical hazy afternoon in Kudal, where the young ones run, play, and make joyful memories across the wide green grass. Image used with permission from the children and their parents.
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About the Author:
Cherrie Ann S. Pintado is an English teacher from Bagulin, La Union. She loves literature, education, and cultural heritage as she is a proud member of the Kankana-ey tribe. She earned a Master of Arts in English and continues to grow as an educator through her experiences and as a lifelong learner. Her work reflects an awareness of local traditions, community stories, and the importance of preserving culture.
