Balbalan, Kalinga – The cold, rainy weather did not stop the people of Balbalan from getting in the fun as they kicked off the Christmas season on Friday, Dec. 01, 2023.
The holidays are in full swing as the town held its second annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Dubbed as “Tanggaw di iBalbalan”, this year’s merriment was an upgrade compared to last year’s “Pasilaw” with more displays and attendees.
A lantern parade was initially set at 4:30 p.m. that day but it rained, adding drama to the event. Despite the weather, the crowd gathered at KDMC Sports Center where they were welcomed by Councilor Alvin Page, the Committee Chairperson on Social Services, Health and Disaster.
Students from participating schools, including representatives of the local government unit and Western Kalinga District Hospital, presented enchanting light shows which illuminated the sports center.
From the said venue, the spectators and performers marched their way to the municipal grounds to witness the highlight of the event – the countdown, the lighting of the towering Christmas tree that served as the centerpiece of the holiday decorations, and the fireworks display!
This year’s Christmas tree did not have a blueprint. The employees of the local government came up with the creative design as they kept ‘putting those lights where they are desirable and pleasing to be seen,’ according to the Municipal Tourism Office.
Lights of entries of villages in the Christmas tree-making competition were likewise lit up, showcasing their artistic crafts made out of recycled and indigenous materials.
Before the crowd called it a night, the winners of the contested activities were awarded. Balantoy Elementary School won the lantern parade in the elementary category, while Saint Theresita’s School emerged victorious in the secondary level. Barangay Pantikian was hailed as the winner in the Christmas tree-making.
Representatives from the winning entries were awarded with P10,000, while the rest were given P5,000 consolation prize.
On their part, Mayor Almar Malannag and Vice Mayor Rowina Alison Damian acknowledged all those who worked tirelessly for the success of the event and reminded their constituents of the essence of the tree lighting ceremony - Jesus Christ is the source of light, giving hope, peace, love and joy that guide the municipality towards progress.
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