CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – Fifteen ambassadors and 21 other diplomats made their visita iglesia to Pampanga’s heritage churches and sampled the province’s renowned culinary delights in a first-of-its-kind spiritual and cultural engagement on March 21.
Organized through the invitation of former president and current 2nd District Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the visit was hosted by Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda, whose continued leadership has strengthened Pampanga’s role as a hub for cultural exchange and heritage tourism.
Led by Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps Archbishop Charles John Brown, the diplomats represented Belgium, Ireland, Romania, India, Sri Lanka, Austria, Slovakia, Taiwan, Cambodia, Australia, Japan, France, United States, United Kingdom, Indonesia, and Spain.
The day’s itinerary started in Lubao with a warm welcome from the local officials led by Mayor Esmeralda Pineda at the Bamboo Hub Floating Restaurant where the envoys were introduced to Kapampangan hospitality through a curated dining experience featuring traditional Filipino and Kapampangan cuisine.
The delegation then proceeded to their visita Iglesia at the St. Augustine Parish Church in Lubao, one of the oldest churches in Luzon dating back to 1572 and known for its resilience through centuries; the Santiago Apostol Parish Church in Guagua, widely known as Betis Church and often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the Philippines” for its intricate ceiling murals; and the San Guillermo Parish Church in Bacolor, a powerful symbol of faith that remains partially buried in lahar following the 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo.
Capping the visit was a feast at the La Cusina Restaurant at Casa Verde in Pradera Resort, where the delegates experienced Pampanga’s unique blend of heritage and modern hospitality.
More than a ceremonial, the visit served as a platform to showcase Pampanga’s cultural identity, historical landmarks, and religious traditions to the global community. It further strengthened ties between the province and the international diplomatic corps while leaving a lasting impression of Kapampangan warmth, resilience, and pride. Pampanga PIO/Photos: Daniel Ombina
