02/12/2024
Nakapag Baguio na ba ang lahat?
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The heart of Baguio City shone brightly as thousands gathered to witness the much-anticipated City Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and the Saint Louis University Lantern Parade, officially marking the start of the Yuletide season.
The evening began with pre-show performances featuring Christmas carols by the University of Baguio Voices and the Saint Louis University Band. The event also celebrated the winners of An Enchanting Baguio Christmas Dance Contest and the Best Decorated Session Road Establishment Award, highlighting the creativity and holiday spirit of the community.
Opening prayers were led by Rev. Fr. Emery Mwako, CICM; Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Enjang Pranatal, CICM; and Rev. Fr. John Salama, CICM, followed by the singing of the Baguio Hymn, a moving tribute to the city and its people.
Christmas messages from Congressman Marquez O. Go, Vice Mayor Faustino A. Olowan, and Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong inspired hope, faith, and loveβthe themes of An Enchanting Baguio Christmas 2024. Mayor Magalong remarked, βThis tree represents the light of compassion, unity, and resilience in our community. Let it remind us that together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for all. This is the reason for the seasonβcelebrating the birth of Christ.β
Chairman of the Baguio Tourism Council, Gladys Vergara, also shared her thoughts, emphasizing the importance of togetherness during the season. βChristmas is a time to come together as one community, to celebrate the joy of giving, and to share the beauty of Baguio with everyone. This tree and the festivities surrounding it symbolize our shared hope and love,β Vergara said.
The countdown to the lighting of the iconic Christmas tree was led by the University of the Cordilleras Dance Company and the University of Baguio Voices. When the tree was finally illuminated, the crowd erupted into applause, their faces glowing with joy and wonder.
The evening continued with a spectacular fireworks display hosted by SM Baguio, painting the night sky with festive colors, and the much-anticipated Saint Louis University Lantern Parade, which illuminated Session Road with a long procession of lit lanterns carefully crafted by Saint Louis University students.
Thanks to the coordination of the Baguio City Police Office and the dedication of various city departments, the event ran smoothly and safely, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.
Special acknowledgment was given to the Local Government Unit of Baguio's City Councilors and lead departments and offices, including the City Administration Office, Baguio Tourism Office, City Building and Architects Office, City Engineering Office, and City Environment and Parks Office, as well as the concerted efforts of all other departments.
A heartfelt thank you to the Baguio LGUβs private partners, including Saint Louis University, University of Baguio, University of the Cordilleras, SM Baguio, Porta Vaga Mall, and others, for their invaluable contributions to the eventβs success.
βThis celebration is a testament to the spirit of Baguioβcreative, resilient, and united,β Vergara added, underscoring the importance of partnerships in making the cityβs festivities truly enchanting.
The City Christmas Tree Lighting and Lantern Parade continue to inspire pride and joy, setting the tone for a magical holiday season in the City of Pines.
