WAVE RIDER | Local surfers ride the waves in Baler, Aurora, in this photo taken on Feb. 4, 2022. Aurora, popular for its surfing spots, beaches, and ecotourism destinations, is expecting an influx of visitors as restrictions for leisure and business travel have been eased due to the improving COVID-19 situation in the province. (File photo by REM ZAMORA)
MANILA, Philippines 鈥� A bill designating Baler in Aurora province as the 鈥淏irthplace of Philippine Surfing鈥� has lapsed into law, according to a statement posted in the on Tuesday.
Known as Republic Act No. 11957, 鈥淎n Act Recognizing the Municipality of Baler in the Province of Aurora as the 鈥楤irthplace of Philippine Surfing鈥欌�� became law without the signature of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
鈥淚n recognition of its status as one of the premiere surfing sites in the country and for earning a significant spot in the history and origin of Philippine surfing, it is hereby declared that the Municipality of Baler in the Province of Aurora be the Birthplace of Philippine Surfing,鈥� stated the new law.
According to the law, the state recognizes the role of tourism in economic growth, as well as its obligations to cultivate the country鈥檚 tourist destinations.
The bill passed through the Senate with 21 affirmative votes in May.
The measure was sponsored by Sen. Sonny Angara while its counterpart in the House of Representatives was lodged by his cousin, Aurora Rep. Rommel Rico Angara.