SASMUAN

Santa Rita is a third-class landlocked municipality in the province of Pampanga, Central Luzon, Philippines. According to the 2020 census, it has a population of 48,209 people. Covering an area of approximately 33.31 square kilometers, it is one of the smaller municipalities in Pampanga by land area.

Santa Rita is bordered by Bacolor to the east, Lubao to the south and west, and GuaGua to the north. The town is known for its rich culinary heritage, most notably the traditional delicacy turrón de casuy (cashew candy roll), which has become a symbol of local identity and pride.

Historically, Santa Rita was a barrio of Porac and became an independent town in 1771. The municipality has preserved much of its Spanish colonial influence, especially through the Santa Rita de Cascia Parish Church, which dates back to the late 18th century. The town celebrates the feast of St. Rita of Cascia every May 22, drawing visitors from surrounding areas.