Amaia Scapes Pampanga

Although it is dubbed as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, there is more to Pampanga than just Kapampangan dishes. From its name La Pampanga which was given by the Spaniards to its festivals, Spanish influence is very prominent in the church architecture. The two most popular churches in Pampanga are Santa Monica Parish Church in Minalin and Santiago Apostol Parish Church in Betis, both are baroque style churches and national cultural treasures. Betis Church is also dubbed as the Sistine Chapel of the Philippines because of its intricately-designed ceiling murals. Every Christmas, the City of San Fernando becomes the center of attraction due to its Ligligan Parul (Giant Lantern Festival), an annual lantern-making contest. Home to a thriving industry, this is also the reason the city is called the Christmas Capital of the Philippines. Stories about Pampanga will never be complete without mentioning Clark. Pampanga is also home to Clark International Airport – the Philippines’ future premier gateway – located in Clark Freeport Zone. Within the freeport zone are several attractions from hotels and resorts to wildlife and adventure parks. Every February, during the Hot-Air Balloon Festival, Clark becomes the center of extravaganza on a weekend where everything flies.