CAN-AVID, Eastern Samar – Although constantly hit by typhoons, this town in Eastern Samar proved that Christmas is unstoppable as it staged the annual lighting of their Lamrag Giant Lantern Festival on Dec. 9.
COLORFUL Christmas lanterns at the Lamrag Giant Lantern Festival in Can-Avid, Eastern Samar.
Now in its seventh year, the festival showcased 13 giant lanterns made from recyclable materials such as plastic cups, spoons, and bottles at the Great Park Area.
Sebastian Pomarejos, Municipal Tourism Officer, said the municipality’s 28 barangays were clustered to come up with grander lanterns this year.
The winners of the month-long festival will receive P200,000 first prize, P150,000 for the second prize, and P100,000 for the third prize.
Non-winners will receive special and consolation prizes.
Department of Tourism-8 Regional Director Karen Tiopes lauded the municipality for being able to sustain their cherished annual tradition and bring joy to residents and tourists.
She added that the event is regarded as one of the most anticipated Christmas celebrations in the region, drawing excitement from neighboring municipalities and cities.
Tiopes thanked barangay officials for their cooperation, which has been instrumental in ensuring the success of this year's festival.
Eastern Samar Board Member Ralph Vincent Evardone, who represented Gov. Ben Evardone during the ceremony, echoed Tiopes’ message, citing everyone’s participation, especially the barangays, in sustaining the event.