
The 36-foot Christmas tree at the Pasay City Hall grounds (Photo by: Jean Fernando)
The Pasay City government kicked off the holiday season with the illumination of a 36-foot pink Christmas tree at the Pasay City Hall on Tuesday, Dec. 3.
The Christmas tree lighting marked Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano's commitment to offering affordable and community-oriented celebrations in line with President Marcos' focus on government frugality.
Rubiano also directed all department heads to forgo expensive pre-Christmas events such as extravagant parties and Christmas balls following the President's appeal for government agencies to prioritize aid for typhoon victims over lavish Christmas spending,
"This Christmas, we celebrate not only the festive spirit but also our commitment to helping those in need," Rubiano said.
"Our city's Christmas celebrations will be a testament to our values of joyful celebration and responsible stewardship of public resources," she added.
The lighting of the 36-foot Christmas tree, adorned with handcrafted ornaments in various shades of pink, thousands of sparkling lights, and festive ribbons, was the highlight of the Christmas kick-off event.

Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano distributes gifts to the city's children. (Photo from Shirley Barberan, Pasay PIO)
The mayor also led the distribution of early Christmas gifts to 161 children and reminded everyone of the joy that comes from giving and sharing love.