Welcome to Bulacan, a province of rich historical heritage!
Winner, ‘My City, My SM’
MANILA, Philippines - This lovely land has come to be called Bulacan — a shortened version of bulak-lakan and/or a derivative of the word bulak, the flowers that abound in this province.
Even before I became Bulakenya by marriage, I started raising our family here with my certified Bulakenyo husband. I had already learned about Bulacan through my history books, because this place and its people have been a catalyst for our nations’ independence, which is why it’s been dubbed the “cradle” of our country’s noble heroes — great men and women, such as Gregorio del Pilar, Marcelo H. del Pilar and “the Women of Malolos.”
It’s also home to many of the country’s greatest talents with a good number elevated to National Artists, among them the legendary poet Francisco “Baltazar” Balagtas, the musician Nicanor Abelardo and the sculptor Guillermo Tolentino.
And who can forget that Asia’s Songbird has her roots here?
Thus it was no surprise to me that I immediately acquired the very distinctive accent of the Bulakenyos. It’s easy to love this place because you can easily feel the warm, welcoming ambience, offering everything you could hope for. An ideal and peaceful community, with a committed government, it’s a haven for business and investment, the best educational tour destination for students and teachers alike who want historical enrichment — and especially a perfect vacation getaway.
Today, Bulacan is among the progressive provinces here in the Philippines. The Bulakenyos are highly educated, enterprising and industrious — it’s a pioneer in the industry of pyrotechnics (fireworks), which have became its trademark product. To further stimulate economic activity in our province and strengthen the anti-poverty campaign of the government through promotion of entrepreneurship, the “Tatak Bulakenyo” program was conceptualized here.
Bulacan is brimming with ideal tourist destinations. It’s the home of so many historical sites and churches, ecological attractions, colorful and enchanting festivals, and various resorts and theme parks. Among the main attractions here are Biak na Bato National Park, Malolos Church, Tilandong Falls, and the well-known Obando Fiesta held from May 17 to 19, wherein childless couples take the occasion to dance before the patron saints of fertility, an appeal for heavenly intercession so they may be granted with children. It’s also a showcase of events highlighted by a street presentation which is joined by the townspeople, public and private schools and business sectors in a week of fun and merriment for visitors and locals alike.
With all the things that Bulacan continues to offer me, I never feel nostalgic for my home province. Bulacan gives me a sense of pride, and I’m happy to tell everyone that there are two SM Supermalls here — the SM City Marilao and the SM City Baliwag. These are places for family bonding, providing visitors a shopping experience with a multitude of the latest treats and trends from SM Department Store which truly enrich our taste, lifestyle and fashion. As SM continues to partake in the making of the Bulakenyo spirit, its presence here also symbolizes the continuous progress of my adopted “hometown.”
Bulacan is not just a place to visit, it’s a place where you will always feel at home, and the two SM Supermalls here have added to this town’s innate charm.
