SM PAMPANGA sets up another record of first, as Pampanga's premier mall ha bedazzled mall-goers and kibitzers during the lighting of the longest Christmas Lanterns that were lighted up simultaneously on a cold Saturday night.

A fitting celebration indeed as SM City Pampanga prides itself of being the Longest Mall in the Philippines.

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SM Pampanga public relations officer Roselle Sarmiento said that 420 lanterns were lined up around the facade of the gargantuan mall.

"It is a tribute to the San Fernando lantern, SM Pampanga is happy to honor this Christmas symbol (the lantern) that has given boundless opportunities to those who make them. San Fernando lanterns are a symbol of the Kapampangan's ingenuity and creativity despite trying times," Sarmiento said.

Made by the legendary lantern maker Roland Quiambao, the lanterns were specifically made for the event to somehow fall into accordance with the malls architecture. Quiambao who is "chief architect" and creative mind behind some of the award-winning giant lanterns of this city said that he had also thrown in some of his best lanterns to accentuate the facade for people to see.

"The concept is that people from a distance could actually see the lanterns. It was a difficult task since I was only given a limited time, but it was all worth it," Quiambao told reporters during the ceremonial lighting.

The lighting was attended by Second District Board Member Edna David, Third District Board Member Johnny Quiambao, SM Mall Manager Engineer Roman Palo, and other special guests.

The lighting of the lanterns also came in line with the Thanksgiving Party for media friends. Media people from different media outfits showed-up for the event.

Mall goers were also treated to two simultaneous concerts by guest bands, artists and singers in front of the SM parking area on two makeshift stages. It was indeed a night of music, fun and entertainment with the lantern as the nights main highlight.

The night's event was ended with the remarkable fireworks display courtesy of SM City Pampanga. It was a taste of an early Christmas gift.

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(December 5, 2008 issue)
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