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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Christmas comes early in Malacañang

Christmas comes early in Malacañang

Published Nov 25, 2023 02:10 am

With Christmas just around the corner, Malacañang has began its festivities with the gift-giving and tree-lighting events this weekend.

Marcos_Christmas.jpgPresident Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (File Photo/MANILA BULLETIN)

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) announced that President Marcos will lead the Palace’s Tree Lighting Ceremony and nationwide gift-giving day program at the Kalayaan Grounds in Malacañang.

The tree-lighting event will commence on Saturday night, Nov. 25, while the launch of the gift-giving program will start on Sunday, Nov. 26.

According to a PCO statement, the tree-lighting ceremony is Malacañang’s way to “officially welcome the Filipino Christmas season.”

The Christmas Tree at the Kalayaan Grounds is adorned with entries from students of state colleges and universities (SUCs) of the “Isang Bituin, Isang Mithiin” nationwide parol-making contest.

“This project of the Office of the President thru the Social Secretary’s Office aims to celebrate the Filipino creativity, craftsmanship, and ingenuity, which must reflect on each parol—as the national symbol of Filipino Christmas and as a vital part of our cultural identity,” the statement read.

The event, which would be attended by the President, the First Family, and the Office of the President (OP) officlals and employees, will also witness the announcement of the winners of the parol-making contest.

Prizes for the winners are courtesy of the Philippine Gaming and Amusement Corporation (PAGCOR) and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

The Coro de San Jacinto Chorale, the Cagayan State University Chorale, Rita Daniela, and Jose Mari Chan will be guest performers.

“Now on its second year, the Isang Bituin, Isang Mithiin showcases the Filipino talent for arts and crafts as reflected on the intricate designs of these parols which continue to be the light and hope of Filipinos as we all progress towards a Bagong Pilipinas,” the PCO said.

Meanwhile, Malacañang is also set to host the Nationwide Gift-Giving Day “Balik Sigla, Bigay Saya” program on Sunday, Nov. 26.

An initiative of the OP through the Social Secretary’s office, the event will benefit more than 17,000 children from selected shelters and orphan care centers around the country. They will be the “special guests” for the event.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the President’s private support groups partnered together to organize the simultaneous celebration in over 250 locations nationwide.

Jollibee and San Miguel Corp. stand as partners from the private sector.

According to the PCO, the largest participating centers are Cebu with 449 children at the Cebu Technological University in Cebu City and University of Mindanao, Matina Campus in Davao del Sur with 600 children.

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Christmas Tree Office of the President gift giving President Marcos
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