TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental (PIA) — Tangub City officially launched its third annual Christmas Festival of Lights at the City Plaza on November 30, themed Pasko sa Pamilya (Christmas in the Family), which celebrates Tangub’s creativity and mastery of light displays.
The grand opening featured vibrant performances, including a singing and dancing presentation by the Tangub City Global College (TCGC) and the Northwestern Mindanao State College of Science and Technology (NMSCST), adding to the festive atmosphere.
Gov. Henry S. Oaminal was joined by Cavite 2nd Congressional Rep. Lani Revilla, gracing the event.
Revilla expressed her gratitude to Oaminal and Tangub City Mayor Sabiniano Canama for their leadership and dedication to the city’s growth, especially during the Christmas season. “Salamat sa inyong pamumuno at sa inyong dedikasyon para sa kaunlaran at kagandahan ng ating minamahal na Tangub City, lalo na ngayong panahon ng Kapaskohan,” she said.
(Thank you for your leadership and your dedication to the development and beauty of our beloved Tangub City, especially this Christmas season.)“Napaka-espesyal ng gabing ito dahil sa sandaling ilawan natin ang napakaganda nating Christmas tree; sinisimbolo nito ang liwanag, pag-asa, at pagmamahalan na hatid ng Pasko. Ngunit higit sa mga dekorasyon at kasiyahan, ang Pasko ay panahon upang balikan at isa-puso ang tunay na diwa ng kapanganakan ni Hesu Kristo. Ito ay panahon ng pagbibigayan, pagmamahalan, at pagkakaisa,” Revilla said.
(This night is very special because the moment we light our beautiful Christmas tree, it symbolizes the light, hope, and love that Christmas brings. But more than decorations and fun, Christmas is a time to look back and take to heart the true spirit of Jesus Christ’s birth. This is a time of giving, loving, and being together.)
Revilla urged everyone to make the season meaningful by sharing love not only with family and friends but also with those in need. She also called for prayers for peace, safety, and unity, especially in the face of the country’s ongoing challenges.
“It is truly a joy to be gathered here with all of you to celebrate one of the most special times of the year—Christmas,” said Oaminal, addressing the crowd of local residents and officials. “This season brings with it the warmth of togetherness, the joy of giving, and the hope that fills our hearts.”
The governor emphasized that Christmas is not just about celebration but also about reflection and creating meaningful memories. “As we come together today, we are not only marking the start of the holiday season, but we are also honoring the traditions that make this time of year so significant,” he said.
Oaminal also highlighted the importance of kindness and generosity, saying, “Christmas reminds us of the importance of coming together, sharing what we have, and spreading joy and warmth to everyone around us,” he continued. “Whether it’s a kind word, a thoughtful gift, or a smile, Christmas teaches us that even the simplest acts of love can have the most profound impact.”
In line with the theme Pasko sa Pamilya, Pasko sa Nayon, Oaminal called on everyone to share the spirit of love, unity, and family within their communities. “Let us embrace the joy of giving, the warmth of family, and the spirit of togetherness,” he urged.
Reflecting on the past year, Oaminal expressed gratitude for the collective achievements of the city and province. “We have much to be grateful for,” he said. “Through our combined efforts, we’ve seen remarkable progress in Tangub and throughout Misamis Occidental. From health and education initiatives to our commitment to peace and order, from infrastructure development to boosting the tourism sector, we continue to move forward together.”
The governor called for continued collaboration and resilience as the community looks toward a brighter future. “Let us build on the successes of this year and work toward a future where love, peace, and progress reign in every home and community,” he said.
Local government officials, civic leaders, and residents all attended the event, joining in the celebration of Christmas and the spirit of togetherness.
The Christmas Festival of Lights also features eight stunning light displays from various government agencies, school divisions, and hospitals. Among the featured displays are representations of the Igorot Stone Kingdom in Baguio City, St. Paul’s Cathedral in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Subanen Village in Tudela, Misamis Occidental, Garin Farm in Iloilo City, Barasoain Church in Bulacan, Cota Shrine and Parola in Ozamiz, and the Botanical Garden in Baguio City, among others.
The Tangub Christmas Festival of Lights 2024 will continue to run until January 2025 at Tangub Plaza, inviting visitors to experience the festive atmosphere and the spirit of Christmas in this vibrant city. (PGMO/PIA-10/Misamis Occidental)
