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{{Short description|Municipality in La Union, Philippines}}
{{More citations needed|date=August 2013}}
{{Infobox settlement
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| p1                 = {{PH barangay count | {{wikidata|label|raw}} }}  (see [[#Barangays|Barangays]])
| leader_title       = [[Mayor]]
| leader_name        = Eric O. Sibuma
| leader_title1      = [[Vice Mayor]]
| leader_name1       = Benjamin O. Sibuma
| leader_title2      = [[House of Representatives of the Philippines#Current composition|Representative]] <!--congressman or congresswoman -->
| leader_name2       = Dante S. Garcia
| leader_title3      = [[Sangguniang Bayan|Municipal Council]]
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 | 2=Maria Isabel D. Diaz
 | 3=Josephine M. Dacanay
 | 4=Woodrow P. Araojo Jr.
 | 5=Genoveva L. Obra
 | 6=Ramsey Pascual D. Mangaoang
 | 7=Nelda B. Mapile
 | 8=Rolando M. Herrera
 | 9=Victoriano C. Batario
}}
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| timezone           = [[Philippine Standard Time|PST]]
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| website            = {{PH wikidata|website}}
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| demographics1_info3 = {{small|{{Increase}} '''[[Philippine Peso|PHP]]  241,735,653.59 million''' (87%)}} (2018)
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| demographics1_info5 = {{small|{{Increase}} '''[[Philippine Peso|PHP]] 397,480,131.29  million''' (40.7%)}} (2018)
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| demographics1_title9 = [[Expenditure]]
| demographics1_info9 = {{small|{{Increase}} '''[[Philippine Peso|PHP]]  135,407,903.62  million''' (18.7%)}} (2018)
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| demographics2_title4 = Cable TV
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'''Aringay''', officially the '''Municipality of Aringay''' ({{langx|ilo|Ili ti Aringay}}; {{langx|pag|Baley na Aringay}}; {{langx|fil|Bayan ng Aringay}}), is a coastal [[Philippine municipality|municipality]] in the [[Philippine province|province]] of [[La Union]], [[Philippines]]. According to the {{PH wikidata|population_as_of}}, it has a population of {{PH wikidata|population_total}} people.{{PH wikidata|population_reference}}

Known in Philippine History as the birthplace of revolutionary leader [[Diego Silang]],<ref>{{Cite book |last=Guillermo, Artemio R. |title=Historical dictionary of the Philippines |date=2012 |publisher=Scarecrow Press |isbn=978-0-8108-7511-1 |edition= 3rd |location=Lanham, Md. |pages=401 |oclc=774293494}}</ref> its economy is based primarily on [[agriculture]] - producing rice, tobacco and fruit crops as economic staples. A nascent tourism industry is centered on its beach resorts. Its ethnic population is predominantly [[Ilocano people|Ilocano]] and [[Christians|Christian]] ([[Roman Catholic]]).

== Etymology ==
The name "Aringay" is attributed to two main theories.

The first theory suggests that the name originated from an early settlement known as ''Alingay, Alinguey,'' or ''Aringuey,'' which thrived through [[Aringay-Tonglo-Balatok gold trail|gold trading]] along the coastal areas and the Aringay River during the 15th-16th century.

The second theory is rooted in local legend. In the early 16th century, two rival settlements existed on opposite sides of a river, each led by a chieftain. Aring, the daughter of the southern chieftain, and Ayong, the son of the northern chieftain, fell in love despite the disputes between their families.<ref name="LU">{{Cite web |title=History {{!}} Aringay, La Union |url=https://aringay.gov.ph/about-us/history/ |access-date=2025-01-07 |language=en-US}}</ref>

The lovers met secretly at the river, and during one fateful meeting, Aring’s boat capsized during a storm. Ayong heroically saved her, shouting ''“Aring-ay!”'' as he did. This event led to the reconciliation of their families, the union of their settlements, and the naming of the town Aringay in honor of their story.<ref name="LU" />

==History==

=== Early history ===
In its early history, the town now known as Aringay was referred to as ''Alingay, Alinguey,'' or ''Aringuey''.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Keesing |first1=Felix M |title=The Ethnohistory of Northern Luzon |date=1962 |publisher=Stanford University Press |location=Stanford, California |page=21}}</ref> It was a settlement of [[Pangasinan people]] strategically located along its coastal areas, lowlands, and the banks of the Aringay River. Historically, this settlement formed part of the northern section of the ancient [[Pangasinan]] region.<ref name="HP">{{Cite book |last=Cortes |first=Rosario Mendoza |title=A History of Pangasinan, 1572–1800 |publisher=New Day |year=1991}}</ref>

Aringay played a pivotal role as a coastal maritime trading center, serving as the terminus of the [[Aringay-Tonglo-Balatok gold trail|Aringay-Tonglo-Balatok]] gold trail.<ref name="RAPPLERGOLD">{{Cite news |last=Panela |first=Shaira |date=2017-03-19 |title=Looking into the past through the eyes of the future |language=en-US |work=[[Rappler]] |url=https://www.rappler.com/science/163689-filipino-archaeologist-traces-ancient-gold-trade-trail-north-luzon/ |url-status=live |access-date=2022-01-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220103122714/https://www.rappler.com/science/163689-filipino-archaeologist-traces-ancient-gold-trade-trail-north-luzon/ |archive-date=2022-01-03}}</ref> This route linked the gold mines of upland Tonglo (in present-day [[Benguet]]) to lowland Aringay, facilitating the transport of gold through the nearby port-settlement of ''Aroo'' (modern-day [[Agoo]]).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Canilao |first=Michael Armand P. |title=Predictive Model of the Balatok- Tonglo- Aringay Ancient Gold Trade Trail in Southwestern Cordillera |url=https://philjournalsci.dost.gov.ph/home-1/52-vol-146-no-1-march-2017/630-predictive-model-of-the-balatok-tonglo-aringay-ancient-gold-trade-trail-in-southwestern-cordillera |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=philjournalsci.dost.gov.ph}}</ref>

The settlement flourished through trade with neighboring groups such as the Samtoy ([[Ilocano people|Ilocano]]) communities to the north and Cordilleran ([[Igorot people|Igorot]]) peoples like the [[Ibaloi people|Ibaloi]], [[Ifugao people|Ifugao]], and [[Kankanaey people|Kankanaey]] in the highlands of the [[Cordillera Central (Luzon)|Cordillera Central]].<ref name="DI">{{cite book |last1=Scott |first1=William |author-link=William Henry Scott (historian) |title=The Discovery of the Igorots |date=1974 |publisher=New Day Publishers |isbn=9711000873 |location=Quezon City |page=58}}</ref> Aringay also hosted foreign traders from [[Chinese Filipinos|China]] mainly from [[Fujian]], [[Japanese in the Philippines|Japan]], and [[Maritime Southeast Asia]], fostering a vibrant trade network. Goods exchanged in these transactions included [[porcelain]], [[silk]], [[cotton]], [[beeswax]], [[gemstone]]s, [[bead]]s, and precious minerals, particularly [[gold]], which was highly valued both regionally and internationally.<ref name="DI" />

=== Spanish Colonization ===
In June 1572, Spanish conquistador [[Juan de Salcedo]] and his soldiers arrived in Aringay during their expedition to [[Northern Luzon]]. Following the pacification of the nearby settlement of Aroo, they encountered a thriving enclave of ethnic Pangasinan people actively involved in gold trading.<ref name="HP" />

The Spanish attempted to persuade the locals to pay tribute to the Crown and convert to [[Christianity]]. However, Salcedo did not establish a permanent foothold in the area, opting instead to continue his expedition northward to [[Vigan]], which he later founded as ''Villa Fernandina de Vigan'' in honor of Prince Ferdinand, son of [[Philip II of Spain|King Philip II]].<ref name="IlocosHeritage">{{cite book |last1=De la Torre |first1=Visitacion |title=The Ilocos Heritage |date=2006 |publisher=Tower Book House |isbn=978-971-91030-9-7 |location=Makati |page=2}}</ref>

Subsequently, [[Order of Saint Augustine|Augustinian friars]] and Spanish authorities, led by Captain Alfonso Quirante, formally organized the settlement into a ''pueblo''. The Spaniards imposed their authority by subjugating the locals and foreign merchants and converting them to Christianity.<ref name="TY">{{Cite web |title=ARINGAY THROUGH THE YEARS: AN ANALYSIS |url=https://aringaytourism.site123.me/articles/aringay-through-the-years-an-analysis |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=aringaytourism.site123.me}}</ref> A ''visita'' (satellite mission station) was established in Aringay and placed under the jurisdiction of the larger church district in [[Agoo]]. New agricultural techniques and the [[Encomienda|Encomienda System]] were introduced, entrusting native labor and resources to Spanish encomenderos, friars, and local elites in exchange for tribute and governance.<ref name="TY" />

The gold trade in Aringay eventually declined as Spanish authorities centralized the precious metals industry. This shift disrupted the community’s traditional way of life and reoriented its economy toward agriculture under Spanish influence.<ref name="TY" />

By the 18th century, population pressures and the oppressive conditions imposed by Spanish colonial rule prompted Ilocano migrants from [[Ilocos (province)|Ylocos provinces]] and neighboring towns to settle in Aringay. These settlers established communities along the mouth of the ''Carayan Lucsin'' (Aringay River), dividing into settlements on the river's northern and southern banks. Over time, they eventually expanded eastward, forming prosperous villages in the surrounding valleys.<ref name="MA">{{Cite web |title=History - Municipality of Aringay, La Union |url=https://launion.gov.ph/city-and-municipalities/aringay-la-union/ |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=Provincial Government of La Union |language=en-US}}</ref> The migration resulted in Aringay becoming predominantly inhabited by Ilocanos and Ilocanized Pangasinenses.

On December 16, 1741, the settlement was officially organized as a [[municipality]] and named Aringay.<ref name="TY" /> Don Pablo Vergara served as the first ''[[gobernadorcillo]]'' under the jurisdiction of [[Pangasinan|Pangasinan province]] and the Bishopric of [[Nueva Segovia (diocese)|Nueva Segovia]]. Following Spanish urban planning principles, early homes were constructed in a [[Renaissance]] grid pattern.<ref name="LU" />

Under Spanish rule, Aringay thrived, with agriculture becoming the primary livelihood. The introduction of modern farming techniques improved productivity in the valleys and plains, while the fishing industry - supported by species like giant carp introduced by East Asian traders - flourished. A Chinese community also developed in the town, contributing significantly to the local economy.<ref name="MA" />

==== Creation of La Union ====
On October 29, 1849, [[Narciso Clavería y Zaldúa|Governor-General Narciso Zaldua Clavería]] issued a decree merging eight towns from Pangasinan, three from [[Ilocos Sur]], and territories in the [[Cordillera Administrative Region|Cordillera]] to form the province of [[La Union]]. The establishment of the province was formalized on March 2, 1850, through the ''Superior Decreto'' signed by Governor-General Antonio María Blanco.

Aringay was one of the founding towns, alongside [[San Fernando, La Union|San Fernando]] (the provincial capital), Agoo, [[Santo Tomas, La Union|Santo Tomas]], [[Rosario, La Union|Rosario]], [[Tubao]], [[Caba, La Union|Caba]], [[Naguilian, La Union|Naguilian]], [[Bauang]], [[San Juan, La Union|San Juan]], [[Balaoan]], [[Luna, La Union|Luna]], [[Bangar, La Union|Bangar]], and [[Bacnotan]]. This formation was confirmed on April 18, 1854, by a royal decree (''real orden'') from [[Isabella II|Queen Isabella II of Spain]].

The towns of Caba and Gallano (later placed in the province of [[Benguet]] and then abolished in 1900) were later carved out of Aringay's northern borders.

==== Philippine Revolution ====
During the [[Philippine Revolution]], the residents of Aringay actively participated in the fight for independence against Spanish colonial rule. Under the leadership of [[Manuel Tinio|General Manuel Tinio y Bondoc]], a close ally of [[Emilio Aguinaldo]], the locals engaged in significant resistance efforts in Northern Luzon.

On June 16, 1898, a fierce battle took place in the town plaza, where 96 [[Katipuneros]] lost their lives in the struggle for freedom. After months of resistance, Aringay was finally liberated from Spanish control, contributing to the Philippines’ eventual declaration of independence in 1898.

=== American Colonization ===
The independence of the Philippines from Spain was short-lived, as the [[Philippine–American War|Philippine-American War]] soon followed. In 1899, the town of Aringay in La Union became a center of resistance against American forces. Guerrilla Unit No. 5, under the leadership of ''Captain Fontanilla'', operated in Aringay and its neighboring areas, including Agoo, Tubao, Santo Tomas, and Rosario. The guerrilla forces played a crucial role in resisting American advances and defending the town's autonomy. On November 20, 1899, American troops arrived in La Union, leading to a decisive battle at the Aringay River, where the guerrillas inflicted significant damage on the U.S. forces.<ref name="TY" />

By 1901, La Union, including Aringay, was fully under American control. During this period, the Americans continued a railway project initially started by the Spanish colonizers. The ''[[Ferrocarril de Manila-Dagupan]]'', which aimed to stimulate economic growth in the countryside and reduce demands for independence, was renamed the [[Manila Railroad Company]] under American management. The railway line reached Aringay in 1912.<ref name="TY" /> [[File:Aringay Abandoned Tunnel.jpg|thumb|215x215px|Aringay abandoned railway tunnel|left]]Efforts to extend the railway from Aringay to [[Baguio]] began shortly thereafter, with the Aringay segment completed in 1913. However, the project was abandoned due to financial constraints faced by the Manila Railroad Company.<ref name="TY" /> The tunnel constructed in Aringay remains as a historical landmark, having stood for over 105 years. Additionally, a railway bridge connecting Sta. Rita West and Poblacion in Aringay was built as part of the Manila-to-San Fernando, La Union line.<ref name="TY" />

By the 1910s, the American colonial government introduced several public services in the area. A public education system was established, with American teachers known as [[Thomasites]] sent to assimilate Filipinos into American culture.<ref name="TY" /> Public hospitals were also built, and a local governance system was introduced, allowing Filipinos to elect their own leaders for the first time. These developments marked significant changes in Aringay’s social, educational, and political landscape during the American occupation.<ref name="TY" />

=== Japanese Occupation ===
In December 1941, [[Japanese soldier|Japanese forces]] attacked U.S. military installations and residential areas in Aringay, La Union. By December 22, 1941, the Japanese 14th Army, commanded by [[Masaharu Homma|Lieutenant General Masaharu Homma]], landed at the mouth of Aringay River after securing [[San Fernando, La Union|San Fernando]] and [[Bacnotan]] as part of their strategy to secure the [[Lingayen Gulf]] and advance their occupation of the Philippines. This event marked the beginning of the Japanese occupation in Aringay.

During this period, the town faced strict control under the Imperial Japanese government, leading to widespread abuses, including [[torture]], [[Comfort women|sexual slavery]], and [[massacre]]s of local residents. These atrocities left a lasting impact on the community and the region as a whole.

By January 1945, American forces launched a successful campaign in the [[Invasion of Lingayen Gulf|Battle of Lingayen Gulf]], which marked the turning point in liberating northern Luzon from Japanese control. Aringay was officially freed in March 1945 following the [[Battle of Bacsil Ridge]] in San Fernando, La Union, which signified the full liberation of the province from [[Japanese occupation of the Philippines|Japanese occupation]].

===Failed proposed merger with Agoo ===
In 2014, La Union Second District Representative Eufranio Eriguel filed House Bill 4644, which seeks to merge the municipalities of [[Agoo]] and Aringay into a component city to be known as the City of Agoo-Aringay,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.philstar.com/nation/2014/07/10/1344315/bill-seeks-merge-2-la-union-towns-component-city |title=Bill seeks to merge 2 La Union towns into component city |publisher=PhilStar Global |first1=Jun |last1=Elias |date=July 10, 2014 |access-date=January 28, 2021 }}</ref> which would have created new positions for which the former municipal officials could run despite having the terms limits of their offices.<ref name="AA" /><ref>{{Cite journal|last=Capuno|first=Joseph J.|year=2013|title=Fiscal transfers and gerrymandering under decentralization in the Philippines|url=https://www.econstor.eu/bitstream/10419/93566/1/747317917.pdf|journal=UP School of Economics Discussion Papers|volume=2013-4}}</ref> This sparked protests from the people of both municipalities, who did not want the merger because it would subject Aringay citizens to the same high local taxes as Agoo, and because of concerns that Agoo and Aringay would lose their cultural identities.<ref name="AA">{{Cite news|url=http://balita.net.ph/2014/08/23/agoo-aringay-merger-mariing-tinututulan/|title=Agoo-Aringay merger, mariing tinututulan|last=Lazaro|first=Freddie G.|date=2014-08-23|newspaper=Balita|access-date=2017-02-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170220053637/http://balita.net.ph/2014/08/23/agoo-aringay-merger-mariing-tinututulan/|archive-date=2017-02-20|url-status=live}}</ref> The proposed merger thus did not push through within term of the 16th Congress.<ref name="AA" /> Later it was pushed again within the term of 20th congress.

==Geography==
{{Multiple images
| image1            = 2731Santa Rita San Simon, Aringay, La Union 16.jpg
| image2            = 4146Samara, Aringay, La Union 01.jpg
| direction         = vertical
| caption2          = Coastal area in Samara
| image3            = 4146Samara, Aringay, La Union 31.jpg
| caption3          = Creek in Samara
| caption1          = Aringay River in San Rita
| align             = left
}}
Aringay is a [[coast]]al municipality in La Union with a land area of 84.54 square kilometers (32.64 square miles), comprising 5.64% of La Union's total area. The municipality's [[topography]] features ''hilly'' and ''mountainous terrains'' that rise gradually eastward from the coastal plains. Situated at the foothills of the [[Cordillera Central (Luzon)|Cordillera Central]], it is home to ''Salapac Mountain'' and ''Mt. Bubon Posi'', one of its highest peaks at approximately 325 meters above [[sea level]], visible from multiple vantage points across the town. The area is rich in indigenous trees, [[Spring (hydrology)|natural springs]], and the Aringay watershed, a vital resource for the community.<ref name="BP">{{Cite web |title=Mt. Bubon Posi {{!}} Aringay, La Union |url=https://aringay.gov.ph/about-us/tourism/aringay-view/ |access-date=2025-01-07 |language=en-US}}</ref>
{{Multiple images
| image1            = 2083Alaska Santo Rosario Aringay, La Union 01.jpg
| image2            = 3197Poblacion San Juan West Aringay, La Union 63.jpg
| direction         = vertical
| caption2          = Aringay River in San Juan West
| image3            = 4146Samara, Aringay, La Union 18.jpg
| caption3          = Aringay Beach
| caption1          = Mangroves in Alaska
| align             = right
}}
Aringay is traversed by several creeks and rivers, the largest being the Aringay River, which flows into the [[Lingayen Gulf]]. The Aringay River watershed is a significant river basin in southern La Union, spanning 45 kilometers in length with a drainage area of 469 square kilometers. It is classified as a Class B River Basin, suitable for primary contact activities such as swimming, bathing, and skin diving. It also has a drainage area of 469sqm. Apart from La Union, it also caters to the Province of [[Benguet]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=South Circuit |url=https://launion.gov.ph/la-union-circuits/south-circuit/ |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=Provincial Government of La Union |language=en-US}}</ref> The river runs along the Aringay fault line, which can produce rumbling sounds during seismic activity caused by movements in the fault.<ref name="BP" />

The municipality is bordered by the [[Lingayen Gulf]] and the [[South China Sea]] to the west, providing access to coastal resources and contributing to its strategic geographical location. Aringay shares its borders with several municipalities, including [[Caba, La Union|Caba]] to the north, Agoo to the southwest, [[Tubao]] to the southeast, and [[Sablan, Benguet|Sablan]] and [[Tuba, Benguet|Tuba]] in Benguet to the east.

Aringay is situated {{convert|26.34|km}} from the provincial capital [[San Fernando, La Union|San Fernando]], and {{convert|240.78|km}} from the country's capital city of [[Manila]].

===Barangays===
Aringay is politically subdivided into 24 barangays with upland and lowland barangays. Each barangay consists of [[purok]]s and some have [[sitios]].

{{Div col|colwidth=15em}}
* Alaska
* Basca
* Dulao
* Gallano
* Macabato
* Manga
* Pangao-aoan East
* Pangao-aoan West
* Poblacion
* Samara
* San Antonio
* San Benito Norte
* San Benito Sur
* San Eugenio
* San Juan East
* San Juan West
* San Simon East
* San Simon West
* Santa Cecilia
* Santa Lucia
* Santa Rita East
* Santa Rita West
* Santo Rosario East
* Santo Rosario West
{{div col end}}

===Climate===
The town experiences the prevailing [[monsoon]] climate of Northern [[Luzon]], characterized by a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.

{{Weather box
| location     = Aringay, La Union
| width        = auto
| metric first = Yes
| single line  = Yes
| Jan high C = 30
| Jan low C  = 20
| Feb high C = 31
| Feb low C  = 21
| Mar high C = 33
| Mar low C  = 22
| Apr high C = 34
| Apr low C  = 24
| May high C = 33
| May low C  = 25
| Jun high C = 31
| Jun low C  = 25
| Jul high C = 30
| Jul low C  = 25
| Aug high C = 29
| Aug low C  = 25
| Sep high C = 30
| Sep low C  = 24
| Oct high C = 31
| Oct low C  = 23
| Nov high C = 31
| Nov low C  = 22
| Dec high C = 31
| Dec low C  = 21
| Jan precipitation mm = 15
| Feb precipitation mm = 16
| Mar precipitation mm = 24
| Apr precipitation mm = 33
| May precipitation mm = 102
| Jun precipitation mm = 121
| Jul precipitation mm = 177
| Aug precipitation mm = 165
| Sep precipitation mm = 144
| Oct precipitation mm = 170
| Nov precipitation mm = 56
| Dec precipitation mm = 23
| Jan rain days        = 6.3
| Feb rain days        = 6.6
| Mar rain days        = 9.5
| Apr rain days        = 12.8
| May rain days        = 20.6
| Jun rain days        = 23.5
| Jul rain days        = 25.4
| Aug rain days        = 23.4
| Sep rain days        = 23.2
| Oct rain days        = 21.4
| Nov rain days        = 14.0
| Dec rain days        = 8.2
| source 1 = Meteoblue <ref name="met_norms">
{{cite web 
| url = https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather/historyclimate/climatemodelled/aringay_philippines_1730171
| title =  Aringay: Average Temperatures and Rainfall
| publisher = Meteoblue
| access-date = 26 April 2020 }}</ref>
| date = 26 April 2020  
}}

==Demographics==
{{Philippine Census
| align= right
| title= Population census of {{PH wikidata|name}}
| 1903 = {{PH census population|1903}}
| 1918 = {{PH census population|1918}}
| 1939 = {{PH census population|1939}}
| 1948 = {{PH census population|1948}}
| 1960 = {{PH census population|1960}}
| 1970 = {{PH census population|1970}}
| 1975 = {{PH census population|1975}}
| 1980 = {{PH census population|1980}}
| 1990 = {{PH census population|1990}}
| 1995 = {{PH census population|1995}}
| 2000 = {{PH census population|2000}}
| 2007 = {{PH census population|2007}}
| 2010 = {{PH census population|2010}}
| 2015 = {{PH census population|2015}}
| 2020 = {{PH census population|2020}}
| 2024 = {{PH census population|2024}}
| 2030 = 
| footnote= Source: [[Philippine Statistics Authority]]{{PH wikidata|population_reference}}{{PH census|2015}}{{PH census|2010}}{{PH census|2007}}{{LWUA population data}} 
}}

Based on the 2020 [[Philippine Statistics Authority]] Census of Population and Housing (2020 CPH), the municipality of Aringay, La Union recorded a total population of 50,380 persons as of May 1, 2020.{{PH wikidata|population_reference}} This figure showed an increase of 2,922 persons compared to the total population of 47,458 persons in the 2015 Census of Population. The population growth in the municipality of Aringay, La Union from 2015 to 2020 translated to an average annual population growth rate (PGR) of 1.26%, which means that about 13 persons were added annually for every 1,000 individuals in the population.<ref name="UP">{{Cite web |last=Philippine Statistics Authority |date=October 31, 2024 |title=Aringay, La Union's population increases at a rate of 1.26 percent (2020 Census of Population and Housing) |url=https://rsso01.psa.gov.ph/statistics/cph/node/1684057993 |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=rsso01.psa.gov.ph}}</ref>

Among the 24 barangays of Aringay, San Eugenio was the most populous, constituting 8.28% of the total municipal population. San Benito Sur was the second most populous barangay with a 7.40% share, followed by Dulao (7.23%), Santa Rita West (7.23%), and Poblacion (6.96%). The least populated barangay in the municipality was San Juan East, which accounted for 1.99% of the population.<ref name="UP" />

The number of households in Aringay, La Union increased from 10,817 households in 2015 to 12,237 households in 2020. The average household size decreased from 4.4 persons in 2015 to 4.1 persons in 2020.<ref name="UP" />

=== Gender ===
In 2020, the household population of Aringay totaled 50,379 persons, with males accounting for 50.31% and females comprising 49.69% of the population. These figures resulted in a sex ratio of 101 males for every 100 females, which is a decrease from the sex ratio of 105 males for every 100 females recorded in 2015. Among children aged below 15 years, the [[sex ratio]] was 106 males per 100 females, while among those aged 15 to 64 years, the sex ratio was 103 males per 100 females. For individuals aged 65 years and over, the sex ratio was 72 males per 100 females.<ref name="UP" /> The median age of the household population in Aringay, La Union in 2020 was 27.60 years, which indicates that half of the population was younger than 27.60 years. This median age was higher than the 26.18 years recorded in 2015.<ref name="UP" />

=== Dependency and Marital Status ===
The young dependents (0 to 14 years) accounted for 28.01% of the population in 2020, while the old dependents (65 years and older) made up 7.38%. The [[Legal working age|working-age]] population (15 to 64 years) constituted 64.61% of the total population. The overall [[dependency ratio]] in 2020 was 54 dependents per 100 working-age individuals, which is lower than the dependency ratio of 57 dependents per 100 working-age individuals recorded in 2015.<ref name="UP" /> Among the household population aged 10 years old and over, 37.67% were never married, while 42.49% were married. Other marital statuses included 5.30% [[widow]]ed, 1.81% [[Annulment|annulled]] or separated, and 12.71% living in common-law or live-in arrangements. Among the never-married population, 54.39% were males, while 45.61% were females.<ref name="UP" />

=== Urban and Rural Distribution ===
In 2020, 18.00% of the population (9,070 persons) lived in urban barangays, which represents an increase of 1,738 persons compared to the 7,332 urban residents recorded in 2015. The rural population accounted for 82.00% (41,310 persons) of the total population.<ref name="UP" /> This comprehensive demographic profile provides insights into the population, gender distribution, education, religion, language, and household dynamics of Aringay, La Union.<ref name="UP" />

=== Religion ===
{{Multiple images
| image1            = 4531Aringay Town Proper 34.jpg
| caption1          = Saint Lucy Parish Church of Aringay
| image2            = 5643MacArthur Highway Aringay, La Union 61.jpg
| caption2          = Local ng Aringay, Iglesia ni Cristo
| direction         = vertical
| image3            = 5564MacArthur Highway Aringay, La Union 50.jpg
| caption3          = Cana Chapel - Bible Land
}}
The population of Aringay, La Union is predominantly [[Catholic Church|Roman Catholic]], but other [[Christian denomination]]s, such as [[Iglesia ni Cristo]], [[Protestantism|Protestant]] groups, [[Philippine Independent Church|Aglipayan]] and [[Jehovah's Witnesses]], are also present. Smaller religious communities practicing [[Islam]] and [[Buddhism]] are also found in the municipality.

=== Language ===
The primary language spoken in Aringay, La Union is [[Ilocano language|Iloco]], with [[Filipino language|Filipino]] and [[English language|English]] commonly used in government and business. The majority of the population in Aringay identifies as [[Ilocano people|Ilocano]], while smaller indigenous groups such as the [[Ibaloi people|Ibaloi]], Bago, and [[Kankanaey people|Kankanaey]] are present in the upland areas. English is widely used as the medium of instruction in schools.

== Education ==
The Aringay Schools District Office governs all educational institutions within the municipality. It oversees the management and operations of all private and public elementary and high schools.<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 15, 2021 |title=Masterlist of Schools |url=https://www.deped.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/SY-2020-2021-Masterlist-of-Schools-Address-only-1-1.pdf |access-date=April 19, 2025 |website=Department of Education}}</ref>

The [[Literacy|literacy rate]] of Aringay, La Union in 2020 was 98.98%, with 50.34% of literate individuals being males and 49.66% being females. Among the total household population aged 5 years old and over, 28.96% attended or completed elementary education, 41.68% reached or finished [[Secondary school|high school]], 8.16% were college undergraduates, and 13.04% attained academic degrees.<ref name="UP" />  Among those with academic degrees, 57.79% were females, while 42.21% were males. Similarly, 65.38% of post-baccalaureate degree holders were females. The municipality has 22 public elementary schools and 3 public secondary schools providing education to children and young adults in the area.

===Primary and elementary schools===
{{Multiple images
| image1            = 4478Aringay Town Proper 25.jpg
| caption1          = Aringay Central Elementary School
| image2            = 4045Samara and Santa Lucia, Aringay, La Union 08.jpg
| caption2          = Samara Elementary School
| direction         = vertical
| align             = right
| image3            = 2480San Eugenio, Aringay, La Union 50.jpg
| caption3          = San Eugenio Elementary School
}}
{{Div col|colwidth=20em}}
* Aringay Central Elementary School
* Basca Elementary School
* Bitag Elementary School
* Bulalacao Elementary School
* Camusing Elementary School
* Gallano Elementary School
* Immalog Elementary School
* Macabato Elementary School
* Manga Elementary School
* New Bern (Alaska) Elementary School
* Pangao-aoan East Elementary School
* Pangao-aoan West Elementary School
* Samara Elementary School
* San Antonio Elementary School
* San Benito Elementary School
* San Eugenio Elementary School
* San Juan Elementary School
* San Simon Elementary School
* Sta. Cecilia Elementary School
* Sta. Lucia Elementary School
* Sta. Rita Elementary School
* Sta. Rita East Elementary School
* Sto. Rosario Elementary School
* UCCP Nursery-Kindergarten School
{{div col end}}

===Secondary schools===
* Aringay National High School
* Aringay Senior High School
* Basca National High School
* Dulao Integrated School
* Manga National High School
* Notre Dame Institute
* St. Barachiel Special Science School

===Higher educational institution===
* South Ilocandia College of Arts and Technology

== Economy ==
{{PH poverty incidence}}
The economy of Aringay, a second-income class municipality with a 10.75% poverty incidence as of 2021, is primarily driven by agriculture, fishing, small-scale industries, and a growing emphasis on local businesses and tourism. The town’s economic activities are reflective of its natural resources and the ingenuity of its residents, with agriculture and fisheries providing the foundation for its growth and development.
{{Multiple images
| image1            = 4146Samara, Aringay, La Union 53.jpg
| image2            = 7832Tubao Aringay Road 27.jpg
| direction         = vertical
| caption2          = Tobacco fields along Dungan Road
| image3            = 4146Samara, Aringay, La Union 30.jpg
| caption3          = Aquaculture (Fish ponds) in Samara
| caption1          = Farmers in Samara
}}

=== Agriculture ===
[[Agriculture]] is the cornerstone of Aringay's economy, with [[rice]], [[tobacco]], [[sugarcane]], [[Maize|corn]], [[Root vegetable|root crops]], and [[fruit]]s and [[vegetable]]s being the primary products. The fertile valleys in the eastern part of the town support the cultivation of these crops, which are crucial for local consumption and trade such as Gallano Rice Terraces. Agricultural practices in the area are diverse, enabling the region to supply both local markets and neighboring areas with various produce.<ref name="AT">{{Cite web |date=November 2018 |title=THE ARINGAY TOURISM PLAN EXECUTIVE SUMMARY |url=https://aringaytourism.site123.me/articles/the-aringay-tourism-plan-executive-summary#:~:text=c.),marketing%20and%20planning%20are%20realistic.&text=MISSION%20STATEMENT:,clean%20and%20safe%20tourist%20destination. |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=aringaytourism.site123.me}}</ref>

=== Fishing Industry ===
[[Aquaculture]] is a major industry in Aringay, with significant production of bangus ([[milkfish]]) which is Arinagy's [[One Town, One Product (Philippines)|One Town, One Product]], [[prawn]]s, and [[oyster]]s in the Aringay River and surrounding areas. Barangays like Alaska, Dulao, Samara, and Sto. Tomas are key players in the fishing sector, supporting local businesses and trade. This industry offers employment to many residents and contributes to the town’s economic vitality through both local consumption and export.<ref name="MA" />
{{Multiple images
| image1            = Aringay, La Union, Philippines - panoramio.jpg
| direction         = vertical
| image4            = 4146Samara, Aringay, La Union 23.jpg
| image5            = 
| caption5          = 
| caption4          = Rental Cottages in Samara Beach
| align             = left
| image2            = Aringay Public Market (McArthur Highway, Aringay, La Union)(2018-11-25).jpg
| caption2          = Aringay Public Market
| image3            = 3053San Juan East, Aringay, La Union 36.jpg
| caption3          = Cornfield in San Juan East
| caption1          = Fishponds along Aringay River
}}

=== Livestock Farming ===
[[Livestock]] farming is essential in Aringay, with [[poultry]], [[carabao]]s, [[goat]]s, and [[swine]] being raised for local consumption and trade. The livestock sector provides a stable income for many families and supports the agricultural economy. Aringay's farmers use traditional and modern methods to ensure a steady supply of meat, egg, dairy, and other animal products for the community.

=== Tourism ===
Aringay's tourism sector is growing, particularly with its beach resorts and natural attractions that draw both local and international visitors. The town's tourism plan focuses on sustainability, [[Ecotourism|eco-tourism]], and expanding its tourism offerings beyond beaches, including [[Agritourism|agri-tourism]] and cultural experiences. As tourism continues to thrive, it creates new opportunities for local businesses and provides additional sources of income for the community.<ref name="AT" />

=== Small-Scale Businesses ===
[[Small business]]es in Aringay play a vital role in the local economy, with [[retail shops]], food establishments, and service-oriented enterprises expanding in the town proper. These businesses meet the daily needs of residents and visitors, contributing to local trade and commerce. The growth of small-scale businesses is supported by the town's entrepreneurial spirit and the local government’s initiatives to encourage business development.

As according to Cities and Municipalities Competitive Index, Aringay ranks 369th in Economic Dynamism among 512 municipalities with a score of 3.9693. It excels in Local Economy Growth (19th) and Safety Compliant Business (3rd). The municipality performs well in Cost of Living (25th).<ref name="CI">{{Cite web |title=Aringay Profile - Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index |url=https://cmci.dti.gov.ph/lgu-profile.php?lgu=Aringay&year=2020 |access-date=2025-01-07 |website=CMCI |language=en-US}}</ref> However, it struggles in Cost of Doing Business (385th) and Financial Deepening (280th). It shows moderate performance in Productivity (229th) and Presence of Business and Professional Organizations (81st). Aringay ranks low in Local Economy Size (238th).<ref name="CI" />

In Infrastructure, Aringay ranks 328th out of 442 municipalities with a score of 2.0936. It performs strongly in Road Network (45th), Information Technology Capacity (39th), and Financial Technology Capacity (50th).<ref name="CI" /> Challenges exist in Distance to Ports (296th) and Transportation Vehicles (286th). Its rankings are moderate in Health (282nd), Education (238th), and Accommodation Capacity (160th). It shows relatively low performance in Local Government Unit Investment.<ref name="CI" />

==Government==
===Local government===
{{main|Sangguniang Bayan}}
Aringay, belonging to the [[Legislative districts of La Union|second congressional district]] of the province of [[La Union]], is governed by a mayor designated as its local chief executive and by a municipal council as its legislative body in accordance with the Local Government Code. The mayor, vice mayor, and the councilors are elected directly by the people through an election which is being held every three years.

===Elected officials===
<!--NOTE: Update needed by June 30, 2022 after oath-taking of the declared winners in the May 9, 2022 local elections.-->
{| class="wikitable" style="line-height:1.20em; font-size:100%;"
|+ Members of the Municipal Council<br>(2019–2022)<ref>{{Cite web |title=2019 National and Local Elections |url=https://comelec.gov.ph/php-tpls-attachments/2019NLE/ElectionResults/2019NLE_LIst_of_Elected_CityMun_Candidates.pdf |access-date=March 6, 2022 |website=Commission on Elections}}</ref>
|-
! Position
! Name
|-
| Congressman
| style="text-align:center;" | Sandra Y. Eriguel
|-
| Mayor
| style="text-align:center;" | Eric O. Sibuma
|-
|Vice-Mayor
| style="text-align:center;" | Benjamin O. Sibuma
|-
|rowspan=8| '''Councilors''' 
| style="text-align:center;" | Maria Isabel D. Diaz
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | Josephine M. Dacanay
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | Woodrow P. Araojo Jr.
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | Genoveva L. Obra
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | Ramsey Pascual D. Mangaoang
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | Nelda B. Mapile
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | Rolando M. Herrera
|-
| style="text-align:center;" | Victoriano C. Batario
|-
|}

==Gallery==
<gallery widths="200" heights="150">
File:FvfLaUnion9897 33.JPG|Municipal hall
File:FvfAringayLaUnion9524 27.JPG|Town plaza
File:FvfLaUnion0401 02.JPG|Public market
File:2731Santa Rita San Simon, Aringay, La Union 17.jpg|Aringay River along Santa Rita
File:4531Aringay Town Proper 24.jpg|Saint Lucy Parish Church
File:4146Samara, Aringay, La Union 19.jpg|Aringay Beach in Samara
File:5564MacArthur Highway Aringay, La Union 04.jpg|MacArthur Highway along San Eugenio, Aringay
File:FvfLaUnion9450 01.JPG|Street view
File:FvfAringayLaUnion9852 44.JPG|Town Proper
</gallery>

==Notable personalities==
*[[Diego Silang]] -  Spanish-colonial era revolutionary leader
*[[Gloria Díaz]] -  Filipino actress and title holder of [[Miss Universe 1969]]
*[[Elpidio Quirino]] - Sixth President of the Philippines 

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
* [{{NSCB detail}} Philippine Standard Geographic Code]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20081120024509/http://www.census.gov.ph/data/census2007/index.html Philippine Census Information]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20120523033520/http://www.blgs.gov.ph/lgpmsv2/cmshome/index.php?pageID=23&frmIdDcfCode=7&fLguType=CM&frmIdRegion=2&frmIdProvince=20&frmIdLgu=260 Local Governance Performance Management System]

{{Geographic location
| Centre    = Aringay
| North     = [[Caba, La Union|Caba]] / [[Naguilian, La Union|Naguilian]]
| Northeast = [[Sablan, Benguet]]
| Southeast = [[Tuba, Benguet]]
| South     = [[Agoo, La Union|Agoo]] / [[Tubao, La Union|Tubao]]
| West      = ''[[Lingayen Gulf]]''
}}
{{La Union}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Municipalities of La Union]]
[[Category:Populated places established in 1641]]
[[Category:1641 establishments in the Spanish Empire]]