ILOILO CITY (PIA6) – It is beginning to look a lot like Christmas in the city as the Iloilo provincial government opens the lights display at the capitol, treating the public with dazzling colors and lively music.
Nearly a thousand Ilonggos flocked to the capitol compound to witness the Christmas lights display during the “Magical Christmas at the Capitol” opening ceremony on Dec. 1.
The installation features colorful lights on the path around the capitol grounds as well as lighted lanterns on the trees and along the Casa Real.
The lights and fireworks display did not just illuminate the whole compound, but it also let people radiate positivity as they were all smiles while taking pictures, creating a wonderful bond with their loved ones.
In a press conference, Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. said that he wanted the capitol to be a “go-to place” of Ilonggo families this holiday season through the celebration of “fun, foodie, friendly, and magical lights display.”
“We want it to be a family destination this Christmas. We open early so that mas madamo ang tyempo, our people can enjoy. It is really for the children and family.”
The celebration kicked off with a 1-km lantern parade from the Iloilo Freedom
Grandstand, proceeding through Muelle Loney Street up to the Capitol grounds with employees wearing lighted headdresses and colorful props, engaging the public to join the festivity.
Different teams composed of employees from all the offices in Iloilo Provincial Capitol also showcased their dancing prowess to entertain the crowd.
Other events prepared in line with the celebration also include the Bahandi Trade Fair in the Iloilo Capitol Walkway, wherein 20 artisans will showcase their products and craftsmanship from December 1 to 20; while there will also be a food festival at the Capitol Park from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Meanwhile, Defensor, in a press conference, revealed that the provincial government allocated more than P2.87 million for the lights and decoration at the capitol compound.
“That is bigger than the budget before since the cost of materials is increasing also. That’s the reason why. We also have upgraded because there are additional structures we have put up,” the governor explained.
He also assured the safety of the visiting public, saying that the provincial government deployed additional personnel to ensure the security, sanitation, and waste management at the Capitol grounds during the holiday season.
“This is also for our tourism. That is why we are investing. This type of activity can propel the province and city of Iloilo on the map of the tourism industry in our country. That is what magical Christmas at the Capitol is all about,” Defensor added. (AAL/JNH/PIA Iloilo)
