To mark the centennial celebration of Filipino migration to the United States, San Fernando Mayor Oscar Rodriguez said a limited set of 12 lanterns will be designed with gems and unveiled at the Westin St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco, California on October 21.

The lanterns will be designed by renowned Filipino fashion designer Marisse "Marigonz" Gonzales.

The City of San Fernando in the province of capital, is known for its beautiful giant lanterns every Christmas season.

Rodriguez said the lanterns would be called "fourth generation lanterns." The rare pieces, also called "Celestial Lanterns," are the latest evolution of the Christmas craft, he said.

The first generation of lanterns were made of Japanese paper and lighted by oil or candel. These provide illumination in the religious procession in Bacolor town, also in Pampanga.

The second generation consisted of electric-powered pieces, made possible with the operations of the San Fernando Electric and Power Co. in the 1930's.

While the first pieces were originally the size of wash bin, the second generation lanterns grew into giant versions after World War II and paved the way for the annual Giant Lantern Festival.

The mayor explains that the third generation lanterns are made of capiz or flattened sea shells put together in the shape of the "Star of Bethlehem."

The creations of Gonzales, an exclusive designer for the Celestial Jewelry, "symbolize Filipino character."

Gonzales said, "I used rubies for courage and bravery that Filipinos are known for. [There is] blue sapphire, symbolizing the ocean surrounding our beautiful islands and which brings tranquility to our people, and diamond, representing our country's leaders, businessmen, and hardworking Filipinos who give hope and brilliance to our land."

Gonzales says she also used pearl, which symbolizes the country's national gem, the South Sea Pearl, and gold, to symbolize solidarity and strength for "our beloved nation and our people."