03 February 2014 - The Philippines, for the first time, will be showcasing the giant lantern of the City of San Fernando, known as the Parul Sampernandu, during the 2014 Xiamen Lantern Festival to be held in Yuan Bo Yuan, also known as Xiamen Garden Expo in Xiamen’s Jimei District from February 02 to 14.

In speaking about the event to local government officials, Philippine Consul General in Xiamen Julius Caesar A. Flores said that this rare opportunity to display the Parul Sampernandu in Xiamen is a way of sharing Philippine culture to our Chinese friends and strengthening the ties of friendship between the Philippines and Xiamen, as well as the rest of China.

“I am glad that we are enjoying the full support of the Xiamen Municipal Government for this endeavor.  I am equally happy to be working with Cebu Pacific Air in bringing the giant lantern to Xiamen,” said Consul General Flores.

Cebu Pacific Air, the largest airline in the Philippines, is similarly proud to help share Filipino culture in China. “Together with the Philippine Consulate General in Xiamen, we look forward to introducing a popular symbol of the Philippines’ favorite holiday season. For the month of December, it is always a grand celebration in the Philippines,” said Cebu Pacific Air vice President for Marketing and Distribution Candice Iyog.

The Philippines has a long and rich tradition of making lighted lanterns, especially in the shape of a star.  This tradition is deeply rooted in the Christian faith of many Filipinos.

The star shape of the lantern is made to commemorate the “Star of Bethlehem,” which Christians believe appeared in the skies to mark the birth of Jesus Christ.  The star-shaped lighted lantern is therefore one of the most beloved and cherished symbols of the Christmas celebration in the Philippines.

Although star-shaped lanterns are made throughout the Philippines, nowhere in the country has the tradition of lantern-making been taken to greater heights than in the City of San Fernando in the province of Pampanga located in northern Philippines.

Through the years, lanterns of San Fernando, with its elaborate designs and intricate lighting, continue to amaze people from all over the world, including Austria, Spain, Taiwan, and the United States.

The mayor of the City of San Fernando is also leading a delegation of local city officials and businessmen to grace the lighting the giant lantern and the opening of the Xiamen Lantern Festival.

The Philippine giant lantern entered in the Xiamen Lantern Festival measures 6.1 meters in diameter.  It is lighted by 1,200 bulbs and 2,250 meters of electrical wiring. 

Cebu Pacific Airlines flies between Manila and Xiamen every Monday and Friday.  For bookings and services, visit www.cebupacificair.com.  END