CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — The House of Representatives unanimously approved on third and final reading last Sept. 18 a bill declaring the province of Pampanga as the “Christmas Capital of the Philippines.”
“The Christmas season here in the Philippines is made extra special every year by the Kapampangans who take pride in their famous and vibrant tradition of lantern-making,” said Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, principal author of House Bill No. 6933 along with senior deputy speaker Pampanga 3rd District Rep. Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr.
Enthused Gonzales: “It is only fitting that we formalize Pampanga’s legacy as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines now, as it continues to brighten the season of giving each year.”
All 250 lawmakers unanimously voted to approve the said bill that seeks to recognize the “grand and famous Christmas traditions and excellent craftsmanship” of lantern-making artisans in Pampanga, citing their contribution to the robust local economy and promotion of the province as a cultural tourism destination.
“This proposed law will further promote our province as a cultural and Christmas tourism destination. It will boost our local economy, which will mean more income and job opportunities for our kabalen and residents of neighboring areas,” said Gonzales.
Under the proposal, the Department of Tourism is tasked to include and feature Pampanga as the country’s Christmas capital in its national and regional promotion programs. Punto News Team
