Acting Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda led the festive opening of the 453rd Aldo Ning Kapampangan (Pampanga Day) on December 2, 2024, with a series of activities that highlighted gratitude, heritage, and unity.

Thanksgiving Mass
The celebration began with a solemn thanksgiving Mass officiated by Archbishop Emeritus Paciano Aniceto, alongside Fr. Manny Sta. Maria, Fr. Noli Fernandez, and Fr. Omar Defensor. Local government officials and provincial employees gathered for the Mass, setting a reflective and grateful tone for the weeklong festivities.

Honoring Heritage and Youth
This year’s theme, “Kapagmasusian at Kapasalamatan King Pamana at Kasalesayang Pakamalan” (Celebrating and Grateful for Beloved Heritage and History), underscores pride in Pampanga’s rich cultural identity and history.

A highlight of the event was the awarding of financial assistance to 961 scholars, including Aeta students from Porac and Floridablanca, as well as recent board exam passers.

Acting Governor Pineda expressed admiration for the Kapampangan spirit, saying:
“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 ning pamahalaang probinsya, kambe na ning masipag a Gobernador, Dennis ‘Delta’ Pineda.”
(“Our ancestors dreamed of progress for Kapampangans and our province. Today, we take pride in excelling in various fields. Together with Governor Dennis ‘Delta’ Pineda, we implement programs that realize this beautiful vision.”)

Lighting Up the Season
The opening day culminated in the official Christmas lighting of Arnedo Park, featuring cultural and historical performances by Arti Sta. Rita, the Aeta brothers, and the Duyan ni Maria Corale.

Weeklong Festivities
The celebration continues with a vibrant lineup of events, including:

• Historical seminars
• Trade fairs
• Chorale and Zumba competitions
• The Mutya Ning Kapampangan coronation night
• The prestigious Most Outstanding Kapampangan Awards (MOKA)

Local Leaders in Attendance
The opening festivities were attended by Sangguniang Panlalawigan members Benny Jocson, Fritzie David-Dizon, Atty. Ananias Canlas Jr., Nelson Calara, Pol Balingit, Cherry Manalo, and Atty. Claire Lim, as well as Provincial Administrator Atty. Charlie Chua and department heads.

Mayors and local leaders, including Tonton Torres of Guagua, Lina Cabrera of Sasmuan, Ron Dungca of Bacolor, Madir Alejandrino of Arayat, Bobong Flores of Macabebe, and Ruding Gonzales of Mexico, also joined in the celebration to show their support.

The Aldo Ning Kapampangan continues to unite Pampanga in celebrating its culture, history, and bright future.