In the aftermath of the catastrophic eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991, hope in the hearts of Kapampangans was shattered, and the vibrant colors of their culture seemed to fade away. The obliteration of communities prompted a desperate cry from the people of Pampanga: “SAVE PAMPANGA!” Amidst the ruins, a resilient spirit emerged, not just to save the Kapampangan race but also to preserve the rich cultural tapestry that defined their identity. From the ashes of adversity, the Sinukwan Festival was born, becoming a symbol of triumph over tragedy.
As we mark the 26th anniversary of this consequential tradition, the Sinukwan Festival 2023 unfolds with the theme: “Kayanakan Manimuna, Masabal King Kultura,” enjoins the Kapampangan youth to preserve and celebrate their culture. Organized by the Foundation for Lingap Kapampangan, Inc. (FLKI), in collaboration with various groups and stakeholders, this week-long celebration from December 2 to 8 promises a kaleidoscope of cultural and entertainment activities that will captivate both locals and visitors alike.
The festivities will commence with a grand ceremony, featuring a dynamic array of events, and throughout the week, attendees can partake in a range of events, including:
- Food and Crafts Fair: December 2 at Robinsons Starmills and Capital Town ● Gayak at Piblas: December 2 at Robinsons Starmills
- Bayung Piblas na ning Aring Sinukwan: December 2 at Robinsons Starmills ● Kapampangan Dance Workshop: December 2 at Walter Mart
- Drum and Lyre Competition (Elementary and High School): December 2 at Robinsons Starmills
- Siuala ning Suli by Paper Soul (Spoken Word Poetry): December 2 at CityFront Mall Clark
- Patenakan (Quiz Bee on Kapampangan Culture and Heritage): December 3 at Robinsons Starmills
- Kapampangan Dance Workshop Competition: December 3 at Walter Mart ● Lakan at Lakambini Ning Sinukwan Talapagobra: December 3 at Walter Mart
- OKM (Original Kapampangan Music Performances): December 4 at CityFront Mall Clark
- Lakan at Lakambini ning Sinukwan (Pre-Pageant): December 4 at CityFront Mall Clark
- Kurang-Kurang: An Inter-Town Competition (College Category): December 5, 2023 at Robinsons Starmills
- Kapampangan Hip-Hop Competition: December 6 at Robinsons Starmills ● Prinsesita ning Sinikwan (Pre-Pageant and Coronation): December 6 at Robinsons Starmills
- Lakan at Lakambini ning Sinukwan (Coronation): December 7 at Robinsons Starmills
- On-the-Spot Photo Contest: December 8 at Capital Town
- Street Dance Competition (Level 1 and Level 2): December 8 at Capital Town ● Free Interpretative Dance Competition (Level 1 and Level 2): December 8 at Robinsons Starmills
- Awarding Ceremonies: December 8 at Robinsons Starmills
The Foundation for Lingap Kapampangan, Inc. extends its deepest gratitude to all Kapampangan Heritage Advocates who have played a pivotal role in supporting the preservation and propagation of the province’s glorious past. Their efforts not only enrich the present but also lay the foundation for generations to come.
As the Sinukwan Festival unfolds, let us all proclaim, “Luid ya ing Pampanga!” – a testament to the enduring spirit and indomitable pride of the Kapampangan people.
IN PHOTO. Ms. Denise Molintas General Manager of Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort Engr. Fer Caylao FLKI President
LIST OF PANELISTS DR. LOURDES M. JAVIER, VICE PRESIDENT, FLKI ATTY. MARIANO DOMINGO T. SANTIAGO, SECRETARY, FLKI PETER A. DE VERA, MEMBER, FLKI FR. RESTITUTO A. LUMANLAN, COUNCIL OF ADVISER, FLKI
