Pampanga

Explore Pampanga

Pampanga is located in the central part of Region III. It is bounded on the north of Tarlac and Nueva Ecija, on the east by Bulacan, southwest by Bataan and west by Zambales. It’s terrain is relatively flat with only one distinct mountain, Mount Arayat.

Its land area is 2,180.68 sq. kms. Its terrain is relatively flat with only one distinct mountain, the Mt. Arayat. Among its municipalities, Porac has the largest land area with 343 sq. km.; Candaba comes next with 208.7 sq. km.; Lubao is the third largest with 155.77 sq. km.

Brief History

Pampanga was founded by the Spanish conquistador, Martín de Goiti, in 1571. The name was derived from the native Kapampangan words “pangpang ilog” meaning “riverside” where the early Malayan settlements were concentrated along the Rio Grande de la Pampanga. Kapampangan men are known for their gallantry and leadership while Kapampangan women are famous for their beauty and skill in culinary arts. Pampanga, one of the richest provinces in the Philippines, was re-organized as a province by the Spaniards on December 11, 1571. For governmental control and taxation purposes, the Spanish authorities subdivided Pampanga into towns (pueblos), which were further subdivided into districts (barrios) and in some cases, into royal and private estates (encomiendas). Ancient Pampanga’s territorial area used to include portions of the provinces of Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pangasinan, Tarlac, and Zambales in the big Island of Luzon of the Philippine Archipelago.

Festivals and Attractions

Giant Lantern Festival
Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta
Ibon-Ebon Festival
San Pedro Cutud Lenten Rites
Sampaguita Festival
Aldo Ning Amanung Siswan
Duman Festival
Sisig Festival
Aldo Ning Kapampangan
Lubenas, Sinukwan Festival

Clark Freeport Zone
Betis Church
San Guillermo Parish Church
Nabuklod Adventure Park
Angeles City Heritage District