More than 50, 000 local and international tourists are expected to flock to the Giant Lantern Festival 2017 on December 16 at the Robinsons Starmills in the City of San Fernando—the country’s Christmas capital.
This was announced by Mayor Edwin “EdSa” Santiago during a press conference on Monday which was also attended by Chair for Committee on Tourism, Heritage and Cultural Development Councilor Harvey Quiwa, GLF Foundation Incorporated headed by President Bong Mah and this year’s Executive Committee chaired by Gil Cortez.
Santiago stressed that they will enforce tighter security measures to ensure peace and order and public safety during the entire event.
“Magkakaroon po tayo ng incident command system sa mismong venue para mamonitor ng maiigi ang sitwasyon lalo na mas maraming turista ang inaasahan natin ngayong taon,” he added.
For this year, ten barangays will compete for the prestigious title and attest that the city is truly the home of the Giant Lanterns. These are Sta. Lucia, Telebastagan, Sindalan, San Juan, Dolores, San Nicolas, Calulut, San Jose, Del Pilar and first timer Del Rosario.
The city mayor furthered that aside from the annual festival, the local government is also developing strategies to promote the lanterns and the craft of light industry not only during Christmas season but also all year round.
For his part, Cortez said he is grateful to be part of the most awaited and cherished event that unites Fernandinos and introduces the city’s culture to the world.
“I would like to thank the LGU for giving me the opportunity to lead something that lives up the community. I am also inviting everyone to support this year’s GLF and all other related activities,” he added.
The committee also reiterated that the admission for the Giant Lantern Festival is free.