rief History:
Its original name was "Wawa" and today many of the old-folks still remember and call it by that name. Wawa means “mouth of the river” and fishing and barter trade were the main occupations of its residents. Before the lahar and floods that came with the volcano eruption of 1991, the town was a huge bustling commercial center. In pre-war days, ships and boats traveled to Guagua to ply enormous trade and haul produce to other provinces via the sea.
It still is the central trading market for fresh fish and seafood. Its public market is a beehive of activity daily as residents and out-of-town visitors shop for the best and largest of prawns, milkfish, and juiciest crabs found in the province.
Its chicharon is one top attraction to the tourists. The tasty crunchy pork skin, crackle in incomparable in its unique delicacy, chicken lovers attest.
It is the hometown of famous celebrities, including the first Filipino Cardinal, Rufino Santos, Senate President Gil J. Puyat, and many important figures in arts, business, government, science, industry, and politics.
Population
Total Population: 96,858
Household Population: 96,640
Number of Households: 18,438
Geography
It is a land area of 4,857 hectares which is primarily dedicated to aquaculture and farming. It is located in the southwestern part of Pampanga. It is adjacent to the towns of Bacolor, Minalin, Sasmuan, Macabebe and Lubao.
Barangays (31)
Ascomo, Bancal, Jose Abad Santos, Lambac, Magsaysay, Maquiapo, Natividad, Plaza Burgos, Pulungmasle, Rizal, San Agustin, San Antonio, San Isidro, San Jose, San Juan, San Juan Bautista, San Juan Nepomuceno, San Matias, San Miguel, San Nicolas 1st, San Nicolas 2nd, San Pablo, San Pedro, San Rafael, San Roque, San Vicente, Santa Filomena, Santa Ines, Santa Ursula, Santo Cristo, Santo Niño
Major Industry
The principal industries are fishing, farming, food processing and furniture manufacturing.
Sites to visit
BETIS ARTESIAN WELL
Found in front of the Betis Church. It is known to be the oldest deep well in the province.
BETIS CHURCH
Pampanga's oldest church is a fascinating work of architecture with its classic altar in antique carved design and décor blending with religious frescoes reminiscent of neoclassic works of European Art. Built between 1754, this church has impressive paintings on its ceiling and walls with fine sculpture and paintings in gold dust.
Festivals & Events
STO. NINO FIESTA
Held every last Sunday of February. A fluvial parade takes place on the eve of the festival. Adding to the occasion's excitement is the performance of "Ati-Atihan", a mixture of native dances and rituals.