City of San Fernando, Pampanga — The Municipality of Santa Ana emerged as the grand champion in the Capitol’s 1st Christmas Pavilion Competition, held at Arnedo Park as part of the week-long celebration of the 454th Aldo Ning Kapampangan, an annual cultural event honoring Kapampangan love, pride, and heritage.
The Capitol Grounds came alive as local government units from across Pampanga unveiled their Christmas Pavilions, turning the park into a vibrant display of creativity, faith, and cultural identity.
Among the crowd favorites were the church replica from Minalin, the seafood-themed pavilion of Masantol, Porac’s nature-inspired displays crafted by Aeta artisans, Lubao’s Bamboo Belen, and Guagua’s intricately carved wooden works.
Santa Ana’s winning pavilion stood out with its Majigangga centerpiece which captured the admiration of both judges and visitors, earning the municipality the top honor in the competition.
“Dream come true ito sa Sta Ana, dahil naishowcase namin muli sa pavillion na ito ang aming unique na tradition which is the Majigangga Festival,” Achitech Joseph Mallari of Casa Apu.
Following Santa Ana, Porac second, Minalin secured third place, and Lubao finished in fourth place.
The celebration was further energized by the Food Bazaar, which showcased Kapampangan culinary excellence and a wide range of quality local products.
Fresh farm produce, indigenous handicrafts made by artisans and persons deprived of liberty, and specialty food items were made available to the public.
Visitors also benefited from the Kadiwa ng Pangulo program, which offered rice at ₱20 per kilo, affordable grocery items, and classic holiday treats such as bibingka and puto bumbong, adding to the festive spirit felt throughout the Capitol Grounds.
The kick-off celebration was completed wiht the ceremonial lighting of the Capitol’s giant Christmas decorations, transforming the area into a Christmas wonderland.
Massive lanterns graced the façade of the building, while candy canes, Christmas balls, and colorful lights illuminated Arnedo Park.
The Food Bazaar and Christmas Pavilions remain open to the public until December 05.