As the city government prepares for the Yuletide Season, Mayor John Dalipe has enjoined the Zamboangueños to participate in the upcoming competitions and activities lined up for this year’s Festival Navidad (Christmas Festival).
Speaking on behalf of the local chief executive, City Hall Spokesperson Liza Joczon said the city government has allocated more or less P200,000 in total cash prizes for the various competitions for the Christmas Festival.
Jocson said the month-long festival will have its opening salvo through a parade of city government employees on Dec. 1 from Paseo del Mar to City Hall to be followed by a short program and the ceremonial switch-on of Christmas lights and display being adorned on the façade of the century-old City Hall and the surrounding parks and gardens.
The Christmas Village Competition will also start Dec. 1 until Dec. 31, Carrera de Alegria (Down-Hill Biking) on Dec. 3 in Barangay Capisan, Hanging of Christmas Lanterns Dec. 1 in City Hall, and Mutya nf Pilipinas-Zamboanga also on Dec. 1 as Astoria Regency Garden.
Jocson also said the Christmas Chorale Competition is scheduled Dec. 2-15 at City Hall grounds, which will be participated by different schools, organizations and the barangays.
Aside from the Christmas displays in City Hall, Paseo del Mar, Paza Pilar and downtown areas, Jocson said the Integrated Bus Terminal is another Christmas landmark, featuring an 80-foot-long Christmas tree. The IBT Christmas lights and display will be unveiled on Dec. 8, in time for its 8th year anniversary.-[Vic Larato]