Mayor Edwin D. Santiago and Robinsons Land Group Property Manager Jodee Pineda-Arroyo seal a memorandum of agreement between Giant Lantern Festival 2013 and Robinsons Land with a check and hand
shake.
PHOTO BY NING CORDERO
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO —This city, known as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines, began its 100-day countdownto the 82nd Giant Lantern Festival (GLF), locally known as Ligligan Parul, set on Dec. 14 at
the Robinson’s Starmills here last Thursday.
The giant lanterns achieved world acclamation after they were displayed in various countries with their meticulous design and multi-colored lights dancing to the tune of Christmas songs.
The much-anticipated annual event draws crowd from around the world who become fascinated with the flashy display of colors. For this year, eight entries have already signed up for the competition including the defending champion Barangay Del Pilar.
Historical records show that Agustinian friars introduced the practice of the procession of patron saints in the 16th century. Early Kapampangans continued with the practice by bringing small lanterns with them during the night which eventually led to lantern making.
By 1908, Francisco Estanislao made big lanterns out of bamboo and coco cloth for the big procession on Christmas Eve to the cathedral. Over time, lantern makers introduced innovations by using motor vehicle batteries to light the lanterns and steel as frames even designing electric-powered rotors for a control board
to enable the lights to be switched on and off to simulate the rhythmic “dance” of the lanterns with the background of Christmas carols.
In his message, Mayor Edwin ‘EdSa” S. Santiago said 2013 should end with lots of thanksgiving that could usher in 2014 with renewed hope. “This festival is a constant reminder of the Fernandinos’ exceptional tradition, creativity and ingenuity,” Santiago said.
GLF chair Engr. Mariano W. Castro Jr. said this year’s competition is different because for the first time, it will use a giant LED screen for the viewers who are outside the venue. Five wide LED screens will also be installed in other areas where people can view the event which will be aired live over Central Luzon TV 36.
Started in 1931 in honor of fi rst lady Aurora Quezon, the original contest lasted until the morning. At the festival launch on Thursday, Robinsons Land turned over P2.268 million to this year’s organizers to fund the event and to subsidize villages that are competing for the title of top maker of the biggest, most colorful and most beautifully designed lanterns.
This is the sixth time that Robinsons Land (through Robinsons Starmill here) is hosting the festival.
