Angeles City will once again celebrate the Yuletide season with the highly anticipated Lubenas Ning Pasku lantern parade on December 14, 2024. The event will illuminate the streets of the Heritage District in Barangay Sto. Rosario, with intricately decorated lanterns featuring delicate lace patterns. The parade will showcase the rich cultural and religious traditions of the city as part of its annual Christmas celebration. This tradition has been a part of Angeles City’s holiday festivities for over a century, dating back to the 1800s when Spanish missionaries introduced the practice of making lanterns to the Kapampangan people.
In preparation for the event, a coordination meeting was held with key officials and community leaders to finalize the plans for the Lubenas Ning Pasku celebration. Chief Adviser IC Calaguas, alongside Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel, led the meeting on behalf of Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. They met with Barangay Sto. Rosario Kagawad and Committee on Cultural and Tourism Chairperson Joana Joy Flores to ensure the smooth execution of the parade. Angeles City Tourism Officer Anneleen Sugui and Harry Galo also participated in the discussions, contributing their expertise on event coordination and cultural affairs.
The Lubenas Ning Pasku is not only a festive spectacle but also a significant cultural event that celebrates the deep-rooted religious traditions of the Angeleños. It highlights the community’s devotion to the Christmas season through the creation of colorful, handmade lanterns that reflect the city’s unique artistic heritage. These lanterns are often adorned with intricate lace designs, showcasing the craftsmanship and creativity of local artisans.
This annual event has its origins in the 1800s when Spanish missionaries first introduced the tradition of lantern-making to the Kapampangan community. Over the years, it has evolved into a major cultural celebration in Angeles City, with families, local artisans, and community members coming together to participate in the creation of the lanterns and the parade itself. The Lubenas Ning Pasku has become an integral part of the city’s Christmas identity, blending religious observances with cultural pride.
In addition to the lantern parade, the Lubenas Ning Pasku also includes a series of events that honor the religious significance of Christmas. The term Lubenas Ning Pasku refers to the Novena of Christmas, a nine-day devotional prayer leading up to Christmas Day. This religious practice is observed by many families in Angeles City, and the lantern parade serves as a vibrant expression of their faith and cultural heritage during the holiday season.
The Lubenas Ning Pasku is a significant event for the local community and the city as a whole. It attracts thousands of visitors, who come to witness the colorful and lively celebrations. For the Angeleños, the parade is not just about the lanterns but about preserving and passing down their traditions to the next generation. It is a moment of pride for the city, as it showcases the creativity, faith, and unity of the people.
As the event approaches, preparations continue to ensure that the Lubenas Ning Pasku will be a memorable celebration. Local businesses and artisans are working diligently to create the lanterns, while the city government is focused on organizing the logistics and ensuring that all safety protocols are in place. The Lubenas Ning Pasku lantern parade is set to light up the streets of Angeles City, offering a festive and meaningful start to the holiday season.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
