CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — The Giant Lantern Festival Foundation, Inc. (GLFFI) has approved a series of resolutions reinforcing its role as the institutional steward of the Giant Lantern Festival, including measures supporting lantern makers, expanding cultural education, and providing financial assistance to a local robotics team.
The decisions were made during the Foundation’s Board of Trustees meeting on June 26 as members outlined priorities aimed at preserving the long-running Kapampangan tradition while broadening its impact on the community.
Among the resolutions approved was a reaffirmation of GLFFI’s commitment to the welfare of giant lantern makers, recognizing them as the custodians of the craftsmanship that has made the Giant Lantern Festival internationally known. The Foundation said it will continue pursuing initiatives that promote their welfare, strengthen their participation, and preserve the artistry that defines the annual celebration.
The Board also endorsed programs to expand GLFFI’s educational mission through research, documentation, public education, and cultural preservation. The initiative seeks to ensure that future generations appreciate the festival not only as a tourism event but also as a living expression of Kapampangan identity, creativity, and heritage.
In a separate resolution, GLFFI approved a ₱100,000 donation to the School Parent-Teacher Association of the Information and Communication Technology High School in Sindalan. The funding will help support the school’s Robotics Team as it represents the Philippines in an international robotics competition in Canada this July.
GLFFI said the festival has always represented more than its iconic lantern displays, serving as a platform for craftsmanship, community pride, cultural preservation, and youth excellence.
The Board also discussed governance initiatives aimed at strengthening the Foundation’s transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability as the permanent steward of the Giant Lantern Festival.
Founded to ensure continuity in managing the festival, GLFFI is composed primarily of former festival chairpersons. Former City Mayors Oscar S. Rodriguez and Edwin D. Santiago were previously conferred honorary membership in recognition of their contributions to the festival during their respective administrations.
The Foundation said it remains committed to preserving the Giant Lantern Festival while ensuring it continues to inspire Kapampangans and visitors from around the world for generations to come