The Santungan ning Kulturang Kapampangan (SKK) or Sanctuary of Kapampangan Culture Building, officially opened its doors on August 29 as Pampanga’s dedicated museum.
This cultural initiative is a collaborative effort between the Foundation for Lingap Kapampangan Inc. (FLKI) and the Provincial Government of Pampanga. Dignitaries, local officials, and cultural advocates attended the inauguration, all united in their goal to protect and promote Kapampangan heritage for future generations.
Archbishop Emeritus Paciano Aniceto expressed his support for preserving the province’s unique identity. The museum is expected to become a hub for cultural education and a symbol of pride for Kapampangans.
The inauguration and blessing ceremonies were also graced by key figures board member Atty. Ananias Jun Canlas, who represented Governor Dennis Pineda, Mike Castañeda, Chief of the Arts, Culture, and Tourism Office of Pampanga (ACTOP), and from FLKI—Dr. Lourdes Javier, Sonia Soto and Fr. Resty Lumanlan also participated in the event.
The museum’s inaugural exhibits a vivid showcase of the rich cultural heritage of Pampanga that includes historical documents, clothings, World War II artifacts, vintage culinary utensils, busts of prominent Kapampangans, dioramas of the city’s historic heritage houses, antique calesa, and contemporary paintings by local Kapampangan artists that celebrate the Kapampangan people’s traditions, language, and history.
At the event, guests were treated to a delightful array of Kapampangan cuisine, showcasing the rich culinary heritage. The spread included traditional dishes and other local specialties that offered a true taste of Pampanga’s renowned gastronomy.
To further enhance the cultural experience, a rondalla, a traditional ensemble of stringed instruments, serenaded the guests with classic Kapampangan songs. The melodious tunes, played on instruments such as the bandurria, laud, and guitar, created an atmosphere that was both nostalgic and celebratory, transporting everyone to the heart of Kapampangan traditions. The combination of authentic food and music made the event a truly immersive cultural experience.