Early parols drew inspiration from Chinese lanterns and Mexican piñatas introduced to the Philippines by missionaries. As the years progressed, advancements in technology allowed for the rise of various designs, but the people of Bacolor recognize that it all began with bamboo strips and papel de japon. Originally crafted to light the streets for Simbang Gabi churchgoers, these simple parols were illuminated by candles. With the introduction of electricity in Bacolor, Pampanga, candles were replaced by light bulbs, and papel de japon gave way to plastic, capis, and fiberglass.
Artisans meticulously planned their designs, from conceptualization to sketching and precise measurements, before crafting each piece by hand with meticulous attention to detail. However, since these concepts were often recorded on paper, the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991 led to the loss of many designs. Despite this setback,lantern-makers persisted, adapting their methods to reconstruct their craft. Now, with the assistance of technology, these designs are securely stored in the computer, making it easier to access and allowing for revisions and the creation of more intricate designs with greater ease, ensuring their availability for future use.
The true magic unfolds when all the pieces come together. Capis shells are meticulously cut, brass linings are carefully hammered around them, and welded piece by piece. This labor-intensive process demands unique skills to craft each masterpiece. Sunshine Pilipinas stays dedicated to preserving traditional methods and harnessing the talent of each artisan. However, the company has also embraced efficiency by incorporating ready-made brass linings and other materials, making production less tedious while maintaining the artistry of the craft.
Over the years, the parol has continued to captivate people with its mesmerizing dancing lights. It has evolved from the simple candle to modern LED lights, illuminating the capiz parol in a dazzling spectacle. The vibrant and colorful lights enchant the audience, especially at the Ligligan Parul in San Fernando, Pampanga, where Giant Lanterns take center stage. These lights are synchronized to the music using a Kapampangan innovation called the "rotor," allowing them to dance to the beat. This festival is eagerly anticipated by Fernandinos each year.
