CITY of San Fernando Councilor Harvey Quiwa has expressed his commitment to continue promoting the preservation and continued use of the Kapampangan language for the benefit of the next Fernandino youth.
Quiwa, who is a known advocate of his native language, recently authored SP Ordinance No. 2018-024 which aims to preserve and promote Pampanga’s culture and heritage, especially Kapampangan language.
“Kapampangan language is never dead. It may be a little sick, but can be treated if we will together move to ensure its preservation. And we are hoping that this ordinance will serve its purpose of raising awareness of Fernandinos and Kapampangans to showcase their love for their roots,” Quiwa said.
Quiwa stressed that the city government of San Fernando is steadfast in preserving and nurturing its native language, thus the unanimous passage of the ordinance at the Provincial Board.
Through the ordinance, Quiwa said that all local television and radio stations are required to play at least one Kapampangan music or broadcast a 30-minute program that uses Kapampangan language per clock hour, both while still following the provisions stipulated in the Broadcast Code of the Philippines.
Malls, cinema or theater operators, event centers, hotels, resorts, and restaurants will be likewise required to play at least one Kapampangan music per clock-hour as their background song, while greeters shall incorporate the use of Kapampangan language to welcome customers, Quiwa added.
He also noted that schools in all levels, both private and public, and government agencies in the city shall incorporate one Kapampangan act, be it Kapampangan song, folk dance, spoken poetry, speech choir, or any other performances of Kapampangan culture during any school activity.
All establishments, meanwhile, are also required to include the singing of Himno Fernandino, the official hymn of the city, during their events, programs, shows, performances or any other activities.
Asked about the reception of the affected establishments, Quiwa said that stakeholders were supportive of the idea, and are willing to unite for a common goal of promoting the culture and heritage of San Fernando.
Quiwa said that the ordinance just awaits the signature of Mayor Edwin Santiago and publication on a proper newspaper before its full implementation.
He noted that the city government’s Business Permit and Licensing Division, under the Office of the Mayor, and the City Tourism Office in coordination with the City of San Fernando Arts and Culture Council, shall be primarily responsible for the proper implementation of the ordinance.