The Wangdom of Pangasinan: A Powerful Ancient Kingdom in the Philippines

The Wangdom of Pangasinan, also known as Luyag na Caboloan, was a powerful ancient kingdom located in the fertile Agno River valley in the northern Philippines. The kingdom’s capital was Binalatongan, which is now known as the city of San Carlos in Pangasinan province.

According to Chinese records, the Wangdom of Pangasinan was a prosperous trading nation that had established relations with China as early as the 8th century. Its strategic location along the coast made it an important hub for trade and commerce, as it was the gateway to other parts of the Philippines and Southeast Asia.

The kingdom is also known for its legendary female warrior, Urduja or Udaya, who was said to have ruled over Pangasinan in the 14th century. Ibn Battuta, a Moroccan traveler, called her a rival of the Mongol Empire and wrote that she had a large army of men and women warriors.

Under the rule of the Wangdom of Pangasinan, the kingdom expanded its influence and territory to what are now the neighboring provinces of Tarlac, La Union, Zambales, Nueva Ecija, Aurora, Quirino, and Benguet. It was able to do this by forging alliances with neighboring kingdoms and through military conquests.

Pangasinan enjoyed full independence until the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century. The Spanish, led by the conquistador Martin de Goiti, defeated the Pangasinan forces and claimed the kingdom for Spain.

Despite its eventual subjugation by the Spanish, the Wangdom of Pangasinan has left a lasting legacy. It is remembered for its rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional music, dance, and crafts. The people of Pangasinan take great pride in their heritage and continue to celebrate it through various festivals and events.