CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- Mall goers where in for a "nationalistic" gastronomic treat as SM City Pampanga unveiled a 12 feet long rice bibingka resembling the colors of the Philippine flag as the mall led the celebration of the 116th Independence Day celebration here Thursday.
Tenants and mall employees led the formal program at the mall's main entrance and paid their respects to the Philippine flag with guests Board Members Rosve Henson and Cherry Manalo. The attendees then proceeded to unveil the "bibingkang nasi"-a Kapampangan rice delicacy in the shape of the Philippine flag which serves as the events centerpiece.
The giant bibingka, measuring six feet by 12 feet, was cooked and shaped by students of the NorthPoint Academy of Culinary Arts in Pampanga.
SM Pampanga mall manager Junias Eusebio said that the centerpiece highlights Kapampangan culinary tradition in line with the celebration of Independence Day.
"SM Pampanga is one with the Filipino people in commemorating this event and in coming up with regular programs each year to contribute in reminding the public on the importance of such celebration," Eusebio said.
Meanwhile, Board Member Henson, who represented Gov. Lilia Pineda in the event, said that the governor is urging Kapampangans to always remember and relive the values of Philippine Independence.
Henson also reminded those in attendance to continue fighting for "independence" against poverty and ignorance.
The event was also marked by performances and a roving brass band that played Filipino songs inside the mall. The giant bibingka was later distributed to mall goers and visitors of the mall.