Giant lanterns once again lit up the City of San Fernando as thousands
gathered at Robinsons Starmills to witness the 117th Giant Lantern Festival
(GLF), a historic and world-renowned annual tradition that celebrates Filipino
creativity, craftsmanship, and the true spirit of Christmas.
The grand opening was attended by Vicente D. Mallapre III, Robinsons
Malls Senior Regional Marketing Manager; San Fernando Vice Mayor Aurelio
“Brenz” Gonzales Jr.; Irving L. Wu, Robinsons Land Corporation External
Affairs Director; Senator Risa Hontiveros; San Fernando Mayor Vilma B.
Caluag; Engr. Noel G. Gomez, Giant Lantern Festival 2025 Chairperson;
Maria Catherine S. Alejandro, Robinsons Malls Senior Director for
Operations; Jonathan Bryan Chua, Robinsons Malls Regional Operations
Manager; and Engr. Jessmark Anthony B. De Guzman, Robinsons Starmills
Mall Manager.
Known as the Ligligan Parul, this year’s competition featured 10 barangays
showcasing intricately designed giant lanterns measuring approximately 20 feet
in diameter; each brought to life through synchronized lights, music, and
movement. The competition was held at Robinsons Starmills Pampanga, home of
the Giant Lantern Festival for 17 years, with Barangay Bulaon emerging as this
year’s Grand Champion.
Following the competition night, the City of San Fernando Tourism Office
announced a series of Giant Lantern Festival exhibitions running from December
14, 2025 to January 1, 2026, bringing the iconic lanterns closer to the public
through displays across key locations in Pampanga. These exhibitions allow
more visitors to experience the artistry and symbolism of the lanterns, which
represent hope, joy, love, and the enduring Filipino sense of community.
The exhibition series opens at Robinsons Starmills from December 14 to 23,
with the lanterns lighting up the mall daily starting 6:00 PM. The mall
transforms into a festive holiday destination, perfect for families, shoppers,
and tourists to enjoy alongside shopping, dining, and leisure experiences.
This year’s stunning display of lanterns from ten barangays of San
Fernando, Pampanga. (Pinch to zoom)
On Christmas Eve, December 24, the lanterns will illuminate the area between
San Fernando City Hall and the Metropolitan Cathedral at 9:00 PM, creating a
memorable backdrop for the holiday celebration.
From December 25 to 30, the giant lanterns return to Robinsons Starmills
Pampanga from 6:00 PM onwards, extending the festive celebrations beyond
Christmas. The season concludes with a grand finale on January 1, 2026 at 6:00
PM, marking the final chance to experience the Giant Lantern Festival.
“For 17 years, our partnership with the City of San Fernando and the Giant
Lantern Festival Foundation has honored Pampanga’s proud heritage as the
Christmas Capital of the Philippines. This year, we warmly invite Pampangueños
and visitors alike to create lasting holiday memories with their loved ones
here at Robinsons Starmills,” said Joel Lumanlan, Vice President for Marketing
and Operations of Robinsons Malls.
A true expression of Pampanga’s creativity and heritage, the Giant Lantern
Festival continues to captivate audiences through its sparkling and colorful
exhibitions across the province. Don't miss one of the country’s most
cherished Christmas Traditions at Robinsons Starmills.
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