LUBAO

Lubao is a first-class municipality located in the southwestern part of Pampanga province in Central Luzon, Philippines. Covering an area of approximately 155.77 square kilometers, it is bordered by Guagua to the north, Sasmuan to the east, Floridablanca to the west, and Hermosa, Bataan to the south . As of the 2020 census, Lubao has a population of 173,502 people .

Known as the "Cradle of Kapampangan Civilization," Lubao boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. It is one of the oldest towns in Pampanga, officially founded on September 14, 1571 . The town's name is derived from the indigenous word "lubo," meaning "low," reflecting its low-lying topography that is prone to flooding .

Lubao is renowned for its vibrant festivals, notably the Sampaguita Festival and the Lubao International Balloon Festival, which celebrate its cultural identity and attract tourists from various regions . The municipality is also home to the San Agustin Parish Church, a 17th-century Spanish-era church declared an Important Cultural Property by the National Museum of the Philippines in 2013