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| "Paskong Batangueño Sa Kapitolyo 2024": The provincial government of Batangas brings the light of joy and hope to Batangueños with an annual attraction in the provincial capitol that is open to the public and runs until January 16, 2025. (Image Source: INQUIRER.net/Batangas Provincial Public Information Office) |
The Provincial Government of Batangas brings the light of joy and hope at the inauguration of this year's edition of its annual "Paskong Batangueño Sa Kapitolyo" last November 23, 2024 at the provincial capital's Regina R. Mandanas (RRM) Memorial DREAM Zone. Led by Governor Hermilando I. Mandanas and through the cooperation of various provincial government offices, the inauguration began with a mass for the Feast of Christ The King which allowed the blessing of the giant Christmas Tree and life-sized Belen as a symbol of hope, love, giving and the continuation of life's journeys for the Batangueños amidst the challenges they have faced.
Guided by the theme "Liwanag Ng Pagkakaisa" (Light Of Unity) which reflects caring and fellowship, the inauguration was made more special with the provincial government's distribution of 76 Generator Units and Emergency First Aid Kits to several schools and barangays in the province that were severely affected by Typhoon Kristine including those in Talisay, Tanauan City, Lipa City, San Luis, Bauan, San Nicolas, Alitagtag, Cuenca, Agoncillo, Laurel, Balete, Lemery, Mabini, Balayan, Calaca, Tuy, Nasugbu, Taal, and Calatagan. In the governor's message, it aims to convey concern and hope, provide assistance, and keep safe and bright, not only the Capitol, but even the darkest and most remote areas in the province. Another part of the inauguration program was "Himig, Instrumento At Musika: A Community Talent Show” where several talented Batangueños showcased and performed their unique skills in singing, dancing and playing instruments that included the Natatas Symphonic Band, Ulango Youth Concert Band, MUV, Lyceum Vocal Harmonics, De La Salle Voices, University of Batangas Dance Company, and solo performances from Antonette Sison and Rachel Laylo. The highlight of the evening is the official lighting of the 60-feet-tall giant Christmas tree decorated with large gifts and Christmas balls which is located in front of the Provincial Capitol Compound, next to the DREAM Zone, where there is also a life-sized Belen, and Santa Claus' Reindeers surrounded by Nutcrackers or toy soldiers and other Christmas decorations. This was immediately followed by the illumination of the main Capitol building where one could witness the seemingly eerie and simultaneous flickering of lights to the accompaniment of various Christmas tunes and a magnificent fireworks display capping off the night.
Among those who have enjoyed these graciously majestic festivities aside from hundreds of individuals gracing the Capitol are Vice Governor Mark Leviste, Provincial Board Member and Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) – Batangas President Hon. Fernan Rocafort, Atty. Angelica Chua-Mandanas, leaders and employees provincial government offices, and officials from various local governments. Managed and supervised by the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), "Paskong Batangueño Sa Kapitolyo 2024" proves that Batangueños continue to come together in spite of all of the challenges that they have faced and will face in the future and remain brave, unique and caring at all times. The "Paskong Batangueño Sa Kapitolyo 2024" is open to the public every day at 4:00-6:00 pm from now until January 16, 2025 which also features an Immersive Experience of the Verde Island Passage at the PTCAO Building, a Food Park and other amenities that can be enjoyed by everyone and their friends and loved ones during the holiday season.
(With words by Ornald Tabares Jr., Crystal Mae Cabello & Almira Elaine Baler of Batangas Provincial Public Information Office)
