DAVAO CITY, Philippines – A choir of children’s voices resonated as hundreds of spectators witness the lighting up of the 40-foot Christmas tree and the candy-themed City Hall here to signal the opening of the month-long Pasko Fiesta celebration on Friday evening, December 1.
The ceremony kicked off with children’s Christmas-themed chorale performances and dance numbers, igniting the spirit of the holiday season. The children also took delight on the free ice cream and carnival rides at the Rizal Park.
The giant Christmas lantern donated by the Province of Pampanga also became an attraction for Dabawenyos.
In her speech during the lighting ceremony at the Rizal Park, Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio urged Dabawenyos to make the holiday season “an avenue to take a look on how to improve the lives and welfare of Dabawenyo children.”
“If we will be able to make every child happy and free from hunger that would be a gift that will be enjoyed beyond this season,” Duterte said.
A total of P17 million was allotted for this year’s various Pasko Fiesta activities and competitions for all Dabawenyos and tourists to enjoy.
Orly Escarilla, head of the committee on holiday events, announced the schedule of the different activities pointing that more events were slated this year.
City Tourism Operations Officer Generose Tecson also urged all Dabawenyos, young and old, to join the city’s celebration.
“As an early gift from the city gov we have lined up a variety of activities for all the Dabawenyos that each can enjoy with their families and friends. Busa ginaawhag nako ang tanan, bata man o tiguwang nga moapil, motungha, ug mosalmot sa mga pasundayag nga giandam alang sa Pasko Fiesta 2017 (I’m inviting everyone, young or old, to join and participate the events in Pasko Fiesta 2017),” Tecson said.
GIANT PAROL. The 15-ft giant parol donated by the Province of Pampanga to Davao City.
Children’s choir performs different Christmas songs during the ceremonial lighting ceremony at Rizal Park, Davao City.
