CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — The country’s Christmas Capital officially ushered in the season of joy with the ceremonial lighting of its iconic lanterns and decors, marking the grand opening of “Paskung Fernandino” in Barangay Calulut.
City Town Center turned into a glowing Christmas hub filled with colorful lights, handcrafted lanterns, and festive displays symbolizing faith, hope, and unity among Fernandinos.
Organized by the city government’s lantern decors technical working group, the event featured over 17 key lighting sites across the city, including the city hall, Heroes Hall, executive-legislative buildings, welcome arches, rotondas, and the Jose Abad Santos Avenue stretch.
Handcrafted parols designed by renowned Fernandino artists Mark Niño Flores, Arvin Quiwa, Rolando Quiambao, and Marlon Tayag lit up the city, paying tribute to the rich lantern-making heritage befitting San Fernando’s titles as the “Christmas Capital of the Philippines” and “Home of the Giant Lanterns.”
In her message, Mayor Vilma Balle-Caluag expressed gratitude to the city’s lantern makers and partners who continuously uphold San Fernando’s artistry and culture through their craft.
“Yes, I am ready. Because this year, no matter what happens—whether it’s an earthquake, a flood, or a typhoon—Filipinos should celebrate Christmas. Especially for us Fernandinos, this is our Christmas Capital of the Philippines,” she said.
The mayor added that despite challenges faced by the city, including recent health concerns and local infrastructure issues, San Fernando remains steadfast in spreading joy and hope through its lantern festival traditions.
“San Fernando is still lucky because compared to other places, we are able to manage the situation through close monitoring and the dedication of our health officers. We are doing our best to ensure everyone’s safety while keeping the spirit of Christmas alive,” she added.
Caluag also shared her pride in the international recognition of the city’s lanterns, particularly their showcase at Expo Osaka 2025 in Japan, which she described as a “moment of honor for all Fernandinos.”
“When we were in Osaka, Japan, we were truly proud to see our lanterns displayed and admired by people from around the world. Our lanterns are now being recognized internationally, not only here in the Philippines,” she said.
The mayor likewise called on Fernandinos to remain united amidst the challenges faced by the city, particularly in water supply and local governance.
Caluag said this year’s Paskung Fernandino not only symbolizes the resilience and creativity of the Fernandino people but also cements San Fernando’s place on the global map as a shining beacon of Filipino Christmas heritage. Mark Anthony G. Pangan/PIA-3
