Pampanga

The competition for the Giant Lantern Festival in this city will return in December, a first during the COVID-19 pandemic, with bigger subsidy and cash ...

The giant lanterns evolved from religious practices in Pampanga, the first province to be christianized by Spanish colonizers in 1571. The lanterns will remain on display on the mall’s grounds for two nights before it will go to venues in the northern and southern parts of the city. Niño, and San Nicolas — still built and displayed their giant lanterns to continue the tradition that began 114 years ago, or in 1908, by acknowledged pioneer, Francisco Estanislao. After Christmas, the lanterns will go the rounds of villages up to Jan. 23, the lanterns will be brought to the patio of the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Fernando where they will remain until Christmas Day. Niño and Telabastagan — stand to receive P300,000 each, or double of the amounts in 2020 and 2021, as subsidy to produce the mammoth creations, Mayor Vilma Caluag announced at the launch of the Ligligan Parul on Friday night.