Mabalacat, Philippines
Region: Pampanga
Geographic Coordinates: 15.216700, 120.583000
Temperature Range: 20.0°C to 35.0°C (68°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 293244
Language: Tagalog
Mabalacat is a city in the province of Pampanga, Philippines. It is located in the northern part of the province and shares borders with Tarlac to the north, Angeles City to the east, Mexico to the south, And Porac to the west. The city covers an area of 83.18 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 286, 000 people as of 2020. The city has a fascinating history and culture that dates back to its days as an important trading hub during Spanish colonial rule.
Visitors can explore various landmarks such as churches and ancestral houses that have been preserved over time. One such landmark is San Lorenzo Ruiz Parish Church which was constructed in 1838 and served as a sanctuary for Filipinos during times of conflict or natural disasters. Nayong Pilipino Clark is another notable attraction that showcases different aspects of Filipino culture through exhibits featuring traditional clothing, Dances, Music, Food, And more. Mabalacat also offers several natural attractions that draw tourists from all over.
Mount Pinatubo provides breathtaking views from its summit after an exciting trek through rocky terrain filled with streams and boulders. Puning Hot Springs is another popular destination for nature lovers where visitors can enjoy relaxing dips in hot pools surrounded by lush greenery while taking in stunning views of nearby mountains.
Foodies will be delighted with Mabalacat’s delicious cuisine which includes local dishes like sisig – a savory pork dish made with diced pig’s head seasoned with spices like garlic onions chili peppers vinegar soy sauce calamansi juice salt pepper sugar etc., Then served on sizzling plates with egg on top. but not leastly Mabalacat’s Clark International Airport serves as a major gateway to the Philippines offering flights to various domestic and international destinations making it convenient starting point for travelers exploring this beautiful country.
Mabalacat caters well for everyone – from history buffs who want to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage, Nature lovers who want to experience its natural attractions, Foodies who want to indulge in delicious cuisine, And travelers who need a convenient starting point for their Philippine adventure.
- Clark Freeport Zone – a former US military base that has been transformed into a bustling business and leisure hub.
- Mount Pinatubo – an active volcano that boasts breathtaking views and hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Nayong Pilipino Clark – an open-air museum that showcases the rich culture and history of the Philippines.
- Aqua Planet – a water park with various attractions and rides suitable for all ages to enjoy.
- Dinosaurs Island – a theme park featuring life-size animatronic dinosaurs, perfect for families with young children.
- Paradise Ranch – an eco-tourism destination where visitors can enjoy horseback riding, zip-lining, and other outdoor activities amidst stunning natural surroundings.
- El Kabayo Riding Stables – a ranch offering scenic horseback riding tours through picturesque trails in the area.
- Puning Hot Spring Resort & Spa – a natural hot spring resort nestled in lush forests, ideal for those seeking relaxation amidst nature’s beauty.
- Sandbox Adventure Park- an adventure park with exciting activities such as ziplining, wall climbing, archery, and more to get your adrenaline pumping!
- Sky Ranch Pampanga- An amusement park that offers thrilling rides like the Sky Eye Ferris wheel which is considered as one of the tallest in Asia!
The Major Industries and Businesses in Mabalacat, Philippines
- Manufacturing
- Electronics
- Garments
- Food products
- Agriculture
- Rice
- Corn
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Tourism
- Hotels and resorts
- Proximity to Clark Freeport Zone and Mount Pinatubo
- Business Process Outsourcing (BPO)
- Strategic location near Clark Freeport Zone
- Retail
- Malls and shopping centers
- Local and international brands
- Transportation
- Buses
- Jeepneys
- Tricycles
- Taxis
- Construction
- Ongoing infrastructural projects like roads and bridges
These industries and businesses contribute significantly to the economy of Mabalacat, Philippines.
- The town of Mabalacat was founded in 1712 by the Augustinian friars.
- During the Philippine Revolution against Spain, Mabalacat played a significant role as it was one of the first towns to join the revolution in Central Luzon.
- In 1898, General Antonio Luna and his troops passed through Mabalacat on their way to Tarlac to fight against American forces during the Philippine-American War.
- During World War II, Mabalacat was occupied by Japanese forces and became a stronghold for guerrilla fighters led by Col. Geronimo Velasco.
- The town is known for its traditional Kapampangan cuisine, including sisig, which originated in Pampanga province and has become a popular dish throughout the Philippines and abroad.
- Notable people from Mabalacat include former Senator Lito Lapid, actor Efren Reyes Sr., and basketball player Calvin Abueva.
- In recent years, Mabalacat has undergone significant development with new residential subdivisions and commercial centers being built in the area due to its proximity to Clark Freeport Zone and Angeles City.
- Museo ning Angeles: This museum showcases the history and culture of Angeles City, which is just a few kilometers away from Mabalacat.
- Nayong Pilipino Clark: This cultural theme park features replicas of various Philippine landmarks and cultural attractions.
- Clark Museum and 4D Theater: This museum highlights the history of Clark Air Base, which was once a major US military facility in the Philippines.
- Mount Pinatubo Crater Lake: A beautiful natural attraction that can be reached by trekking or riding a 4×4 vehicle.
- Puning Hot Springs: A popular hot spring resort located at the foot of Mount Pinatubo.
- Dinosaurs Island: An educational theme park featuring life-sized animatronic dinosaurs.
- Paradise Ranch: A nature park offering various outdoor activities such as horseback riding, zip-lining, and ATV rides.
- El Kabayo Riding Stables – Horseback riding lessons and trail rides are offered at this equestrian center inspired by American Old West architecture.
- Salakot Arch – A landmark arch in Mabalacat that symbolizes Kapampangan culture and hospitality
- Clark Parade Grounds – The former parade grounds of Clark Air Base now serve as an event venue for concerts, festivals, sports events, among others
- After conducting research on Mabalacat’s sports teams and their histories,
- it seems that the city doesn’t have any well-known professional or amateur sports teams.
- However, Mabalacat has a lot of local basketball leagues and tournaments that are popular among its residents.
- Mount Pinatubo – an active volcano located in the Zambales Mountains
- Mayon Volcano – an active volcano located in the Bicol Region
- Taal Volcano – a complex volcano located in Batangas
- Chocolate Hills – a geological formation in Bohol consisting of over 1,000 hills
- Puerto Princesa Underground River – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature located in Palawan
- Banaue Rice Terraces – a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Ifugao
- Coron Island – a popular diving spot located in Palawan
- Fort Santiago – a historical fortification located in Intramuros, Manila
- Manila Cathedral – one of the oldest churches in the Philippines located in Intramuros, Manila
- Hot Air Balloon Festival – an event featuring hot air balloon displays, skydiving exhibitions, and other aviation-related activities held every February in Clark Freeport Zone
- San Pedro Cutud Lenten Rites – a reenactment of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ held every Good Friday in the town of San Fernando
- Sisig – a dish made from chopped pig’s head and liver, usually served on a sizzling plate. Some popular places to try sisig in Mabalacat are Aling Lucing’s Sisig and Mila’s Tokwa’t Baboy.
- Betute – stuffed frog dish that is deep-fried. It is a delicacy that can be found at Everybody’s Cafe.
- Tocino – sweet cured pork that is usually served for breakfast with garlic rice and eggs. You can try tocino at Jollibee or McDonald’s.
- Bulalo – beef shank soup with vegetables like corn, cabbage, carrots, and potatoes which you can try at Kamayan sa Palaisdaan.
- Kapampangan-style Adobo – chicken or pork cooked in vinegar soy sauce mixture with lots of garlic which you can find at Apag Marangle restaurant.
- Halo-halo – A refreshing Filipino dessert made of shaved ice topped with various ingredients such as beans, fruits, jellies, milk and ice cream which you can enjoy at Razon’s of Guagua or Nathaniel’s Bakeshop.
- Balut – A fertilized duck egg that has been boiled alive which you can find on the streets of Poblacion area during night time street food market.
- Clark Freeport Zone is a vast recreational area featuring many parks, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
- Bayanihan Park is a well-known public park located in the heart of Mabalacat City that hosts various events and activities throughout the year.
- Dinosaur Island is a theme park showcasing life-size animatronic dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures.
- Zoocobia Fun Zoo is an animal theme park with various attractions such as zip lines, animal shows, and garden mazes.
- Aqua Planet Water Park is the largest water park in the Philippines boasting over 38 slides and attractions.
- Sandbox Adventure Park offers outdoor adventure activities such as ziplining, ATV riding, archery, and more.
- Fontana Leisure Parks & Casino is a resort complex with a casino, golf course, swimming pools, restaurants and other recreational facilities available for guests to enjoy.
- Nayong Pilipino Clark is a cultural theme park showcasing Filipino culture through replicas of traditional houses from different regions of the country.
- Paradise Ranch Eco-Tourism Park offers horseback riding tours around scenic areas in Mabalacat City for tourists to enjoy nature at its best.
- Clark Global City boasts several parks perfect for leisurely walks or picnics including Clark Parade Grounds which are ideal for joggers or those who want to play frisbee or football.
