The Bacolod public plaza was aglow with joy as the city held its grand lights-on ceremony Dec. 11.
The momentous occasion brought together Bacolod’s stakeholders, barangays, department offices, and over 70 sponsors who joined the “Adopt-a-Tree” initiative, the Bacolod Tourism Office (BTO) said in a press release, adding the project not only enhances the festive spirit of the city but also fosters community engagement by inviting sponsors to illuminate specific trees of their choice.
Adding joy to the evening was Santa Claus, who delighted children by sharing gifts and spreading holiday cheer.
Before the official lights-on ceremony, the plaza became a hub of festive competition, with students from various elementary and high schools showcasing their talents in the Christmas chorale competition.
Participating elementary schools (ES) include the Corazon Locsin Montelibano Elementary School, JR Torres ES, Handumanan ES, Sum-ag ES, and Asuncion Lizares ES, while high school participants include the Sum-ag National High School, Alangilan NHS, Emiliano Lizares NHS, Mandalagan NHS, Handumanan NHS, Medalla Integrated School, and Teofilo Gensoli NHS.
The event also featured entries to the parol contest organized by the DepEd Federation of Parents-Teachers Association.
Another highlight of the evening was the Christmas tree lighting contest organized by the City Cooperative and Livelihood Development Office. Participants from various cooperatives crafted creative and festive Christmas trees.
The festive event not only lit up the plaza but also the hearts of the community, as the combined effort of Bacolod’s leaders, students, cooperatives, and sponsors created a memorable event that celebrated the true spirit of Christmas — unity, joy, and giving. | PIO, BTO photos
