CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – Acting Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda spearheaded the opening festivities of the 453rd Aldo Ning Kapampangan (Pampanga Day) on December 2, 2024.
The celebration commenced with a thanksgiving Mass officiated by Archbishop Emeritus Paciano Aniceto, Fr. Manny Sta. Maria, Fr. Noli Fernandez, and Fr. Omar Defensor. The Mass was attended by local government officials and employees of the provincial government.
This year’s theme “Kapagmasusian at Kapasalamatan King Pamana at Kasalesayang Pakamalan,” highlights gratitude and pride in Pampanga’s rich cultural heritage and history.
As part of the celebration, the provincial government emphasized its commitment to youth development and excellence by awarding financial assistance to 961 scholars, including Aeta students from Porac and Floridablanca, as well as recent board exam passers.
“Pengarapan ding kekatamung ninunu ing pagsulung dareng kapampangan at ning probinsya tamu. Keng miyayaliwang larangan dakal tamu apagmaragul ken kasalukuyan. Kambe na ning masanting a pangarap ing gagawan tamung miyayaliwang programa na papatupad na ning pamahalaang probinsya ning Pampanga kambe na ning kekatamung malugud at masipag a Gobernador, Dennis “Delta” Pineda,” she said.
The evening of the opening day also featured the official Christmas lighting of Arnedo Park and showcased cultural and historical performances by Arti Sta. Rita, Aeta brothers, and the Duyan ni Maria Corale.
The weeklong celebration includes a diverse lineup of activities, such as historical seminars, trade fairs, chorale competitions, Zumba competition, coronation night of Mutya Ning Kapampangan, and will culminate with the prestigious Most Outstanding Kapampangan Awards (MOKA).
Joining Acting Governor Lilia Pineda during the kick-off event were Sangguniang Panlalawigan members Benny Jocson, Fritzie David-Dizon, Atty. Ananias Canlas Jr., Nelson Calara, Pol Balingit, Cherry Manalo, and Atty. Claire Lim. Also present were Provincial Administrator Atty. Charlie Chua, SP Secretary Theresa Guevarra, and various department heads.
Mayors and local leaders from across the province also lent their support, including Tonton Torres of Guagua, Lina Cabrera of Sasmuan, Acting Mayor Ron Dungca of Bacolor, Madir Alejandrino of Arayat, Bobong Flores of Macabebe, and Ruding Gonzales of Mexico.
