Metro Manila, Philippines - Christmas in the Philippines wouldn’t be the same without the dazzling giant lanterns of San Fernando, Pampanga.

The tradition has been so iconic that even the world takes notice, with CNN ranking it among the best Christmas destinations in the world.

Behind the vibrant displays lies a legacy of hardwork, creativity, and unwavering dedication—stories that continue to shine and live on through generations.

Pampanga’s best

Edwin David Sr., 78, has spent six decades in crafting lanterns.

He is the second generation of lantern makers in the family after following in his uncle’s footsteps.

Known in his community as “Potpot”, Edwin began crafting lanterns in 1965 and had mastered the art of giant-lantern making during the 1980s.

His passion for his craft shines as brightly as the lanterns he creates. Although he has retired from making giant lanterns, Edwin said he still tries to craft smaller ones when he can.

On Dec. 14, he received what could be the greatest culmination of his decades-long perseverance: a lifetime achievement award, recognizing him as one of the oldest living lantern makers in San Fernando.

“Sobrang saya,” Edwin told NewsWatch Plus.

“Wish ko sana maraming makagawa ng parol na marami sa Pampanga,” he added.

[Translation: I’m so overjoyed…I wish many people would continue to make more lanterns in Pampanga]

Undying tradition

Edwin may have stopped creating giant lanterns, but his legacy continues to dazzle through the hands of his sons.

Edmar David, one of Edwin’s seven children, has been in the same business for 20 years.

“Dati ang gumagawa iyong father ko tinuruan ako and then iyon natuto na ako, noong may edad na father namin, nilipat na sakin. Ako na gumagawa,” he said.

[Translation: Before, my father was the one making them and he taught me. Then, when my father got older, he passed the craft on to me. I’m the one making them now]

He said four of his siblings have been helping him out in his craft.

On the day his father's lifetime of work was honored, Edmar's talent shone just as brightly - a testament to the passion that runs through their family.

Edmar’s giant lantern was hailed as the champion for this year’s festival - a first in his career.

“Masaya. First time namin mag-champion. Iba rin ang pakiramdam na mag-champion,” he shared.

[Translation: I’m happy. It’s my first time bagging the championship. It’s a surreal feeling]

Edmar vowed to keep their family’s tradition alive, saying he would pass on the craft to his child.

“Of course, ituturo ko sa kanila habang bata pa sila i-expose ko na sila sa paggawa ng parol,” he said.

[Translation: Of course, I will teach them while they’re still young, I’ll expose them to lantern-making]