ILOILO CITY – Despite the challenges posed by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), Christmas lanterns made by inmates are going to adorn the streets of this city anew as part of the decorations for the Yuletide season.
The Christmas lantern decorations are part of a public-private partnership (PPP) between the city government, led by Mayor Jerry Treñas, and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI-Iloilo), led by Chairperson Dr. Sandra Sarabia Gomez and President Atty. Jobert Peñaflorida.
This would be the second consecutive year that the city government and PCCI-Iloilo will be partners in this project.
“Receiving accolades last year, the parols will once again bring back the spirit of joy, happiness, love and hope for all Ilonggos. More importantly, as Christmas is the time for sharing and giving, these lanterns will be shining examples of giving light to lives,” PCCI-Iloilo said in a statement.
“Bearing the national colors of our flag, the parols symbolize the call for patriotism and unity during these challenging times. The persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) work on these lanterns giving them livelihood at this crucial time,” it added.
Meanwhile, the ceremonial lighting will occur on November 14 to coincide with Iloilo Market Market 2020 trade fair at SM City Iloilo.