CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — In commemoration of the spirit of resiliency, determination and unity of the Kapampangans amid the huge devastation wrought by the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991, the provincial government, together with the private sector here, is eyeing the construction of a PHP50-million Mount Pinatubo Eruption Monument.
In a meeting presided over by Governor Lilia G. Pineda with businessman Levy Laus, sculptor Willie Layug, engineer Marni Castro, board member Rosve Henson and provincial administrator Andres Pangilinan Jr. on Tuesday, they agreed to put up the proposed 38-feet monument along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) beside the San Fernando North Exit.
Pineda said the monument would be the symbol of hope for the present and future Kapampangans, highlighting their trait of resiliency despite being nearly buried by lahar flows and volcanic ashes when Mt. Pinatubo erupted in 1991.
Laus said that the monument was tasked to them by Pineda for the 25th anniversary of Mt. Pinatubo eruption but it took a while because they had to seek first a strategic location within the city.
“We are getting the support and cooperation of North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) Corporation and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan will write to NLEX for a usufruct for a particular island in San Fernando North Exit,” he said.
He added that Layug produced a concept that would capture the struggle of the Kapampangans, the people behind it, and the present state where there was triumph over adversity of eruption and calamities brought about by the Pinatubo.
“Artisan Willy Layug from Betis produced the initial design of the monument where it will emulate the struggles, efforts, and triumphs of the Kapampangans over adversities,” Laus said.
Layug, meanwhile, said it would be a great challenge for him to materialize the monument, which would be made of bronze, 38 feet in height, and would be adorned with lights and landscaping.
Third district board member Rosve Henson said that the provincial board was looking to provide the necessary budget and funding of about PHP50-million, with support from the private sector.
He also said that they would authorize Pineda to enter into a negotiation with the Manila North Tollways Corporation for a usufruct contract for the usage of a piece of land near the San Fernando North Exit.
The eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991 is considered the second largest volcanic eruption in the 20th century that caused massive destruction not only in Pampanga but also in neighboring provinces. (PNA)
