San Luis mainland is a vibrant agricultural town with the largest land area in Aurora. Its coastal barangays are currently accessible only by sea. Known for its natural beauty, especially Ditumabo Falls and forest parks, it serves as a key ecotourism and farming hub. With a mix of indigenous heritage, Catholic traditions, and eco-conscious initiatives, it is an essential part of Aurora’s identity.

General Information About San Luis

• Location – Inland, west of Baler, in central-southern Aurora Province
• Region – Central Luzon (Region III)
• Province – Aurora
• Land Area – Approximately 471.48 km² – largest land area in Aurora
• Population – Around 29,824 (2020 Census)
• Number of Barangays – 18 barangays
• Founded – June 16, 1959 (Municipal District) June 16, 1962 (regular municipality) August 20 (annual San Luis fiesta celebration)
• Languages – Tagalog, Ilocano, and Dumagat dialects
• Economy – Primarily agriculture (rice, corn, coconut), livestock, and forestry; some sabutan weaving
• Distance from Baler – About 10 km southwest

Geographic Features

• Located in a mountainous and forested area juxtaposed with the Eastern seaboard facing the Philippine Sea.
• Bordered by Baler to the North, Maria Aurora to the West, Dingalan to the South and the Philippine Sea in the East.
• Part of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range, with rivers, valleys, and forest reserves.
• Home to ecotourism sites such as waterfalls, river systems, and natural parks.

Historical Background of San Luis

Early History

• Originally a barangay of Baler, known as San Luis Obispo during Spanish times, named after St. Louis of Toulouse.
• Populated by Tagalog settlers, Ilocano migrants, and Dumagat indigenous communities.
• Known for its fertile lands and abundant natural resources, the area was historically a hinterland supporting coastal communities.

Municipal Formation

• San Luis became an independent municipality on June 16, 1962, through Executive Order No. 397, signed by President Diosdado Macapagal.
• The separation aimed to provide better governance for its growing rural population and to develop its agricultural potential.

Development and Role

• As one of the largest municipalities in Aurora, San Luis plays a significant role in agricultural production and forest conservation.
• It houses parts of the Aurora Memorial National Park, making it vital for both ecological protection and tourism development.
• Roads and services have improved, especially in connection with nearby Baler, which boosts access to markets and tourism spillover.

Tourism and Attractions

• San Luis offers natural and eco-tourism experiences, including:
• Ditumabo “Mother” Falls – the most famous waterfall in Aurora, located in Barangay Ditumabo.
• Caunayan Falls – another beautiful cascade within the forest.
• Aurora Memorial National Park – a protected zone that promotes biodiversity and forest preservation.
• Agricultural and river-based tourism – including trails, camping, and river trekking.

Culture and Community

• Residents are predominantly Tagalog-speaking, with Ilocano and Dumagat minorities.
• Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion, with annual fiestas, especially the feast of St. Louis of Toulouse in August.
• Dumagat communities continue to reside in upland areas, practicing traditional forest-based lifestyles and rituals.

Timeline of Major Events

• Pre-1900s – Inhabited by Dumagat and early settlers as part of Baler
• 1962 – Became a regular municipality via Executive Order No. 397 [RA 3487]
• 1979 – Became part of newly formed Aurora Province
• 2000s – Present – Development of eco-tourism sites like Ditumabo Falls