LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) – The city government of Laoag, through the City Tourism Office, launched their lighted “kalesa” program this holiday season.
In this project, “kalesas” or horse-drawn carriages are donned with decorative lights and other Christmas ornaments meant to attract tourists, including locals to experience a kalesa ride around the city.
With the lighted “kalesa” project, “kutseros” or carriage drivers can also operate until evening which can help increase their revenue, according to City Tourism Officer Angel Lao.
“Last year, competition itong lighted kalesas, pero this year, ang ginawa namin ay ang City Tourism Office na ang nagbigay ng mga pailaw sa mga kalesa para hindi makadagdag gastos sa mga kutseros,” Lao added.
(“Last year, the lighted kalesas was a competition, but for this year, the City Tourism Office provided the decorative lights for the kalesas so as not to add to the spending of the carriage drivers,” Lao added.)
The Tourism officer also said this program is still a part of their efforts to maintain and promote the kalesa industry, which she said is part of the cultural identity of Laoag.
This program will last until January 2024.
Moreover, the City Tourism Office also spearheaded other holiday activities this December including a barangay lantern-making contest, inter-school Christmas carol competition, and holiday weekend trade fairs and bazaars to highlight local products and businesses.
This December 30-31, the City Tourism Office will open another holiday trade fair with musical guests at Aurora Park.
On December 31, the city government will likewise stage a fireworks display show to welcome the New Year 2024. (JCR/AMB/EJFG, PIA Ilocos Norte)
