The province kicked off the Christmas season with an enchanting fireworks display and colorful lighting ceremony at the Provincial Capitol Grounds.
Vibrant Christmas lights, a giant Christmas tree, big Christmas balls, and a magical fountain mesmerized residents and visitors.
The employees and officials from the province also joined together in a spirited display of unity, dancing in unison to celebrate camaraderie and togetherness.
Lanao del Norte illuminated the provincial capitol with colorful Christmas lights and decorations. (Photo: ADD/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
Magical fountain show mesmerized residents and visitors during the opening of Paskuhan 2023 in Lanao del Norte. (Photo: ADD/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
Embracing joy
Despite the rain, people gathered to witness the enchanting lights and the captivating fireworks, showcasing resilience and a shared celebration of the season’s spirit.
One of them is Jenalyn Samson, who shared her excitement about witnessing the beautiful opening of the lights with her children.
“Para masaksihan namo ang pag-open sa light nga nindot kaayo. Bisan gaulan, nianhi jud mi kauban sa among mga anak. Wish nako nga magpadayon nga ani, walay mga kalamidad nga muabot sa atoa [We came here to witness the beautiful opening of the lights. Even though it’s raining, we came here with our children. My wish for Christmas is that I hope this continues and no calamities come our way],” she said.
She also appreciated how the provincial government provided livelihood opportunities, making it easier for people to find ways to sustain themselves.
The employees and officials in Lanao del Norte joined together in a unity dance during the opening of Paskuhan 2023 in Lanao del Norte. (ADD/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
Gratitude for blessings
Governor Imelda “Angging” Quibranza Dimaporo expressed deep gratitude for the blessings that have been poured into the province.
The province recently received two prestigious awards: the 2023 Seal of Good Local Governance from the Department of the Interior and Local Government, recognizing it as one of the best-performing local government units.
Moreover, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, through the National Gawad Kalasag Committee, also announced that the province was beyond compliant in the 23rd Gawad Kalasag Seal and Special Awards for Excellence in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and Humanitarian Assistance for the Local DRR Councils and Offices Category.
“I hope and pray that our Christmas with our families will be as white as the snow. It’s really a white Christmas for all of us, kay kaluoy sa Ginoo walay dautan nga nahitabo sa atong probinsya [because, by the grace of God, no harm has come to our province]. And we are looking forward to the opening of the Panguil Bay Bridge this coming June 2024,” she said.
With hearts filled with gratitude and hope, the province shines brightly, embracing the festive season with joy and color. (LELA, edited by RTP, PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
