Different entries for the land-based Parade of Lights with float 13, entitled Bandoreal from Talon-talon National High School clinching the grand prize of P250K

With dazzling lights, vivid colors, and captivating performances, float 13 bested 13 other equally stunning entries during the competition held Saturday night, September 27 along R. T. Lim Boulevard, marking the grand opening salvo of the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival 2025.

The float was accompanied by over 20 performers, bringing to life a variety of characters, from tall giants to playful clowns, capturing the audience’s attention and embodying the festive spirit of the fiesta. The presentation was not only a visual delight but also a heartfelt tribute to Zamboanga’s cultural heritage.

Meanwhile, Entry no.9 “Yakan Weaving Village” by Arena Blanco National High School secured the second place, bringing home P200K, while Entry no. 5 Barangay Council of San Roque won the third place bringing home P150K. All non-winning participants also received P50K each, as a consolation prize.

The Parade of Lights was an activity organized by the City Government of Zamboanga through the City Tourism Office is held as part of the month-long celebration of this year’s Zamboanga Hermosa Festival, themed “Fiesta Hermosa: Celebracion de Fe y Esperanza para de Todo!” (A Celebration of Faith and Hope for All).

As the lights shut down and the music faded into the night, the people of Zamboanga were once again reminded of the city’s vibrant traditions, limitless creativity, and unbreakable spirit that makes the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival one of the most anticipated events in Mindanao. (Bernadeth Lazaro) (photo credits: Kathy Wee Sit/ April Joy Araneta-Adriano)