‘Tis the season of merriment and generosity at Malacañang Palace as the festive spirit of Christmas arrives early this year. With twinkling lights and heartfelt gestures, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) has announced a jubilant lineup of events to mark the onset of the holiday season.
Amidst the gentle glow of November evenings, President Marcos is poised to lead the grand Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Kalayaan Grounds in Malacañang. This enchanting ceremony, scheduled for Saturday night, Nov. 25, aims to ceremoniously inaugurate the Filipino Christmas season, a tradition close to the heart of the nation.
The majestic Christmas Tree, adorned with creations from talented students of state colleges and universities participating in the “Isang Bituin, Isang Mithiin” nationwide parol-making contest, stands as a testament to Filipino creativity and cultural identity. These parols, woven with intricacy and symbolism, radiate as the cherished symbols of hope and unity for the country.
Celebrating ingenuity and craftsmanship, the event, graced by the President, the First Family, and esteemed officials and employees, will also witness the announcement of winners from the parol-making contest, generously supported by the Philippine Gaming and Amusement Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).
Adding musical delight to the evening, the Coro de San Jacinto Chorale, the Cagayan State University Chorale, along with the esteemed voices of Rita Daniela and Jose Mari Chan, will grace the event, lending their talents to heighten the festive ambiance.
The “Isang Bituin, Isang Mithiin” initiative, now in its second year, continues to highlight the Filipino spirit through arts and crafts, portraying the intricate designs of these parols as guiding lights, fostering hope in the hearts of Filipinos as the nation progresses toward a promising future.
Beyond the shimmering lights and melodious tunes, Malacañang is gearing up for another heartwarming event – the Nationwide Gift-Giving Day, dubbed “Balik Sigla, Bigay Saya,” scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 26.
Under the stewardship of the Office of the President through the Social Secretary’s office, this event aims to spread joy to over 17,000 children from selected shelters and orphan care centers nationwide. These children, esteemed as “special guests,” will be the recipients of this gesture of love and warmth.
A collaborative effort between the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the President’s private support groups, supported by partners from the private sector such as Jollibee and San Miguel Corp., orchestrates this heartwarming celebration across more than 250 locations nationwide.
Among these locations, the grandest participation will be seen in Cebu and Davao del Sur, with over 449 children at the Cebu Technological University in Cebu City and 600 children at the University of Mindanao, Matina Campus in Davao del Sur, eagerly awaiting the joyous occasion.
In the spirit of Christmas, these initiatives by Malacañang embody the essence of compassion, unity, and the joy of giving, illuminating the hearts of the Filipino people as the holiday season unfolds its magical embrace.