PAMPANGA

SHORT HISTORY
Pampanga, a province in the Central Luzon region of the Philippines, has a rich history. Here are some key points:

 The province is believed to be a descendant of the Luzon Empire, also known as the Kingdom of Tondo1.
 The natives, known as Kapampangans, were linguistically distinct from the Tagalogs living in nearby
provinces1.
 There were thriving settlements along the banks of Rio Grande de la Pampanga (now called Pampanga
River) when the Spaniards arrived1.
 The province of Pampanga was officially created on December 11, 1571, by the Spanish authorities12.
 Pampanga was one of the richest places in the country, with thriving agricultural, forestry, and fishery
industries1.
 In 1645, Francisco Maniago led a revolution against paying tributes to the colonial officials1.
 In 1896, Pampanga joined the revolution, becoming the first province to do so1.
 In 1899, San Fernando served as the temporary capital of the Philippine Republic1.
 In 1903, Clark Air Base was built during the American period

CITY/MUNICIPALITIES
Pampanga comprises 19 municipalities and three cities (one highly urbanized and two component).
 Angeles city

is a 1st class highly urbanized city in the Central Luzon region of the Philippines. While Angeles City is politically
independent from the province of Pampanga, it is usually grouped with it for statistical purposes. Angeles City is in
the urban core of Metro Clark,[5] an urban area in Pampanga. This area, also known as Metro Angeles, is considered
the industrial and residential heartland of Central Luzon.[6] Metro Clark Angeles is also identified as a regional
center by the national government.

 Apalit

is a 1st class municipality in the province of Pampanga, The town is famous for its Apung Iru Fluvial Procession,
which is listed as one of the most significant water-based intangible cultural heritage of the Philippines. The festival
happens every June 28–30.

 Arayat

is a 1st class municipality in the province of Pampanga in the Philippines. Mount Arayat is a famous attraction
located in Arayat, Pampanga.
  Bacolor

is a 3rd class municipality in the province of Pampanga, Bacolor is the birthplace of Father Anselmo Jorge de
Fajardo, considered the "Father of Kapampangan literature"[6] for writing the 1831 Kapampangan "kumidya" Don
Gonzalo de Cordova.

 Candaba

is a 1st class municipality in the province of Pampanga, Candaba represents the lowest point in Central
Luzon Region of Luzon Island. The neighboring municipality of San Miguel (San Miguel de Mayumo) in Bulacan
province used to be part of Candaba until San Miguel became a municipality itself.

 Floridablanca

is a 1st class municipality in the province of Pampanga, Philippines. Floridablanca is derived from Spanish which
translates to "white flower." However, there are two versions of the name's origin:

 Guagua

is a 1st class municipality in the province of Pampanga, Wawa the earliest town name which means “river mouth”
when Spanish colonists took control of the town in the year 1561, from then on calling it Guagua, which is
a Hispanised form of the original name. Indeed, archeological artifacts have been excavated in a nearby town
which affirmed the existence of a prehistoric community in Guagua.

 Lubao

is a 1st class municipality in the province of Pampanga, The town's name derives from the indigenous
term lubo which means low or sunken, reflective of the area's muddy and flooded characteristics. Lubao is also
known by its Kapampangan language equivalent Baba.

 Mabalacat

Is s 3rd class component city in the province of Pampanga, Mabalacat is in the urban core of Metro Clark,[6] also
known as Metro Angeles, an urban area in Pampanga. This area is considered the industrial and residential
heartland of Central Luzon.[7] Metro Clark is also identified as a regional center by the national government.
Mabalacat's name was derived from indigenous Negrito word mabalacat meaning "forest of balacats", a species of
tree that were prominent in the area.

 Macabebe

is a 1st class municipality in the province of Pampanga, The town was named Macabebe because it is
geographically situated along the shores (Pampangan: bebe; Tagalog: baybay) or banks of Río Grande de
Pampanga. The town is sometimes referred to as Makabibe because of the abundance of corals and shells along
the Río Grande in earlier times. The English translation of Macabebe, meaning: 'surrounded by rivers' describes the
historical heritage of the ancient town.
  Magalang

is a 1st class municipality in the province of Pampanga, Philippines. Magalang was initially called Magalo, derived
from the Kapampangan word "Galo", which means wavy and moving, describing the dangerous flow of the Parua
River.

 Masantol

is a 2nd class municipality in the province of Pampanga, The municipality is named after the santol trees that used
to grow abundantly in the area. The reason is either because there was a proliferation of santol trees in the area,
or because the town was where santol fruits were heavily bartered (Kapampangans being fond of 'sinigang' dish).

 Mexico

is a 1st class municipality in the province of Pampanga, formerly known as Nuevo México during the Spanish
period. According to folk etymology, the original pre-Hispanic name of the village was
purportedly Masicu or Maca-sicu, which the Spaniards spelled as "México". It is claimed that this was a reference
to an abundance of chico trees.

 Minalin

is a 4th class municipality in the province of Pampanga, Philippines. According to the 2020 census, it has a
population of 48,380 people. The town is known for its 400-year-old church, the Santa Monica Parish Church, with
its unique design that incorporates pre-colonial architectural motif alongside its European Catholic iconography.
[5]
Minalin is also known for its "Aguman Sanduk" New Year's Celebration, where in which the town's straight men
dress up as beauty queens and ride through town on festive floats.

 Porac

is a 1st class municipality in the province of Pampanga, Philippines. Porac was founded on October 31, 1594, upon
acceptance by Fray Mateo Peralta in the Friar's Intermediate Chapter (recorded by Fray Gaspar de San Agustin,

 San Fernando

is a 1st class component city and capital of the province of Pampanga, Philippines. The city is named after King
Ferdinand VI of Spain and placed under the patronage of Saint Ferdinand III of Castile and León, whose feast is
celebrated every May 30. Popularly known as the "Christmas Capital of the Philippines", the city holds the
annual Giant Lantern Festival every December where large parol are displayed in competition. CNN has hailed the
city as 'Asia's Christmas capital.

 San Luis

is a 3rd class municipality in the province of Pampanga,

is a 3rd class municipality in the province of Pampanga, In 1770, Don Mariano del Pilar de los Reyes founded a
farming village named 'Barrio Del Pilar', which later became the town of San Simon.

 Santa Ana

is a 3rd class municipality in the province of Pampanga, Sta. Ana was a track of forest and bordered by the towns of
Arayat, Candaba, Mexico and San Luis.

 Santa Rita

is a 4th class municipality in the province of Pampanga, Santa Rita is popular for the turones de casoy delicacy,
which is a cashew candy. It is chiefly a farming town.

 Santo Tomas

is a 4th class municipality in the province of Pampanga, As the youngest and smallest Pampanga town, Santo
Tomas has a total land area of 1,467 hectares (3,625 acres). It is a mainly agricultural and fishing community;
industry includes casket manufacture, ceramics, and carpentry.

 Sasmuan

is a 4th class municipality in the province of Pampanga, It was known as Sexmoan until January 15, 1991.[6] The
town's former name in Spanish was Sexmoán, as was initially transcribed by Spanish friars.

CULTURE AND BELIEFS

2. Festivals Aside from the Sisig Festival, Pampanga hosts various other festivals. The Holy Week observances,
particularly in San Fernando, involve unique practices like the crucifixion reenactment on Good Friday, drawing
attention from both locals and tourists.

3. Arts and Crafts Traditional crafts like pottery and handwoven products contribute to Pampanga's cultural
heritage. The province is known for its skilled craftsmen who create intricate designs in pottery and textiles.

4. Architecture Pampanga features historical churches and ancestral houses showcasing Spanish colonial
architecture. The San Guillermo Parish Church in Bacolor, partially buried by lahar from the Mt. Pinatubo eruption,
stands as a testament to the region's resilience.

5. Spiritual Beliefs Some Kapampangans maintain traditional beliefs in anitos (nature spirits) and duendes
(dwarves), reflecting indigenous animist influences. These beliefs often intertwine with Catholicism, creating a
syncretic approach to spirituality.

DELICACIES
1. Sisig - A savory dish made from parts of pig's head and liver, seasoned with calamansi (Philippine lime) and chili
peppers.

2. Adobo del Diablo - A spicy version of the classic Filipino adobo, often featuring chili peppers for an extra kick.

3. Kare-Kare - A rich oxtail stew with a peanut-based sauce, often served with bagoong (shrimp paste).

4. Bringhe - A local version of paella, made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and various meats or seafood.

5. Tibok-Tibok - A sweet delicacy made from carabao's milk, similar to maja blanca but with a distinct Pampanga
twist.

LANGUAGE
Kapampangan is the main language spoken in the province of Pampanga and in southern Tarlac, Philippines.

RELIGION
Kapampangans are mostly Christians, a majority of which are Roman Catholics, Aglipay, Methodists, and the
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). A few belong to non-Christian religions.

TOURIST SPOTS
 Sky Ranch Pampanga

In the Pampanga municipality of San Fernando is the well-known amusement park Sky Ranch Pampanga. For
guests of all ages, it provides a large selection of rides and attractions. There is something for everyone at Sky
Ranch, from gentle carousels and train rides to exhilarating roller coasters and head-spinning rides. There is a ferris
wheel in the park that provides sweeping views of the surroundings. Live entertainment, games, and food vendors
round out the enjoyable atmosphere. Families and friends seeking a unique experience can spend a fun-filled day
at the Sky Ranch Pampanga tourist spot.

 Aqua Planet

Aqua Planet sits on a 10-hectare property inside Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, Philippines. It is the Philippines’
newest and most modern water theme park with 38 water slides and attractions suitable for guests of all ages. It is
the first-phase of a 122- hectare integrated resort project built in the growing Freeport. It also has facilities to cater
guests with disabilities. For those looking for food, beverages and shopping, Aqua Planet has 8 designated shop &
dine areas to choose from.

 Pradera Verde

Pradera Verde is a large sports and leisure activities complex located in Lubao, Pampanga. For both those in love to
the nature and sports, it is a getaway. Golfers can enjoy a challenging and beautiful environment on the complex's
championship Colin Montgomerie-designed golf course. There's also a shooting range, a wakeboard park, and an
equestrian center where tourists may enjoy horseback riding. Additionally, Pradera Verde is the venue for a
number of events, such as concerts, athletic competitions, and exhibitions. There are many options available at
Pradera Verde, a Pampanga tourist destination, whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway in nature or a fun-
filled day of sports.

 Betis Church

Located in the town of Betis, Guagua, Pampanga, the magnificent Baroque-style Betis Church is also known as the
St. James the Apostle Parish Church. Constructed during the 17th century, the church is well-known for its
magnificent woodcarvings and architecture. The interior is decorated with fantastic ceiling frescoes that portray
biblical scenes and intricate details that highlight the artistic talent of local artisans. Because of its majesty and
pleasing design, the Betis Church has earned the title of "Sistine Chapel of the Philippines." In addition to attending
mass, visitors can take in the church's breathtaking architecture and sacred artwork. Definitely an it tourist
destination for architecture.

 Darabulbul Falls / Dara Falls

Darabulbul Falls is considered as Pampanga's similar of Pagsanjan Falls in Laguna. This waterfall is one of many in
the hilly to mountainous Porac municipality, which is located in Barangay Jalung. The original name of Dara Falls
was Darabulbul, a Kapampangan term meaning gushing liquid, frequently with a gurgling sound. It's wonderful
watching how much water still flows from the mountains down to the basin, despite the fact that the Mt. Pinatubo
eruption seriously damaged it.

LIVELIHOOD
The two primary industries for the Kapampangan people are farming and fishing. Fishing is one of Pampanga's
primary industries. The region's lakes and fish ponds produce tilapia, mud fish, cattle fish, prawns, shrimp, and
crabs, and other seafood. Another significant industry in the province is farming. The main agricultural products
are rice, sugar cane, and corn.

FESTIVALS
 Sinukwan Festival – The Sinukwan Festival was established in 1997 to boost morale in Pampanga following
the devastation of the Mount Pinatubo eruption. Aring Sinukwan (King Sinukwan) is a god of the ancient
Kapampangans. The celebration participated by representatives of different towns of Pampanga. Street
dancing is the highlight of this event, each delegates dance to the tune of the Pampanga Song “Atin ku
pong singsing” in ” in their elegant headdresses and colorful costumes.

 Giant Lantern Festival – The Giant Lantern Festival (GLF), locally known as “Ligligan Parul,” continues to
light up hope in the Christmas of every Filipino home as it marks 115 years of lantern making and
Kapampangan craftsmanship. The City of San Fernando is known to be the Christmas Capital of the
Philipplines. Seven barangays from City of San Fernando are participating in the contest of the giant
lantern competition. 20 feet diameter lanterns with thousands of dancing lights are being judge and
display every Saturday before Christmas
 Makatapak Festival –“ Makatapak” is a Kapampangan word means barefoot. This festival is the famous re-
enactment of the town people in Apalit who walked through lahar in barefoot to look for a safer place to
stay after the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo. This festival, celebrated in November, is a reminder of the
strength and unity of the people of Bacolor

 Apung Iru Fluvial Festival –Apung Iru stands for the holy image of St. Peter, which is brought to its shrine
in a fluvial procession. Carried in its "pagoda" amidst prayers, religious songs and water-fighting revelers.
It is highlighted with a fluvial parade down the Pampanga River. It's another unique custom in this
tradition-filled country. Celebrated every June 27-29 of every year, the feast of St. Peter is observed with a
fluvial parade with gaily decorated motorboats and colorful bancas roving up and down the Pampanga
River.

 Philippine Hot Air Balloon Festival – The festival, also known as “the weekend of everything that flies,” is
popular not just for the colorful display of hot air balloons, but with the event comes the opportunity for
you to see and experience flag jumps, microlight and rocketry demonstrations, skydiving, plane fly-bys
and fly-ins, remote control plane and helicopter flying exhibitions, freestyle aerobatics, light airplane
balloon bursting, flying formations, choreographed kite-flying, and pylon racing, to name a few. Clearly,
there’s much to see and experience during the festival. The festival is an annual event happening between
January and February at Clark Freeport Zone