CITY OF SAN FERNANDO A bigger, brighter, and more competitive "Ligligan Parul" is set to thrill spectators around the world on December 17, 2022, at Robinsons Starmills.
The upcoming Giant Lantern Festival this Saturday returns face-to-face after two years of holding exhibitions online.
But the quest for the revolving trophy and top cash prize will be stiffer this time with the 10 participating barangays---Bulaon, Calulut, Del Pilar, Dolores, Pandaras, San Juan, San Nicolas, Sta. Lucia, Sto. Niño and Telabastagan—set to show their best even just for the coveted "bragging rights" for the master lantern makers.
"Ligligan Parul 2022" will highlight the City of San Fernando's Covid-19 pandemic recovery efforts, environmental management, and gender equality, among others on top of the traditional themes of love, hope, and faith showcased in a myriad of colors powered by 6,000 to 10,000 bulbs driven by the several rotors played by crews in tune with the music of their choice.
“Ligligan” is the Kapampangan term for contest.
In an interview over DwRW 95.1 FM's "Talakayan,” City Tourism Officer Ching Pangilinan said spectators are bound by more excitement as the craftsmanship, designs, and presentation of the giant lanterns have been leveled up.
"Every year, our lantern makers introduce innovations like the use of LED bulbs and other materials while maintaining the tradition of the first giant lanterns made out of cloth. Now our craftsmen are working on rain-proof materials so the GLF gets better and better each year," Pangilinan said.
As in the past, media partner CLTV36 will broadcast live the December 17 main competition from 6:00 PM and will be streamed by the city government, Philippine Information Agency, and other accredited platforms for wider coverage and reach.
After the actual "ligligan,” a two-week exhibition of the giant lanterns will be held from December 18 until January 1, 2023, in selected locations including Poblacion San Fernando, Marquee Mall in Angeles City and Robinsons Starmills here.