It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Davao City as Pasko Fiesta sa Dabaw 2024 was officially opened on Thursday night.
Davao’s annual tradition of joy and merry-making took off with the switching on of the lights, revealing the enchanted woodland-theme decorations at the Quezon and Rizal Parks.
Dabawenyos also marvelled at the giant Christmas tree at the Rizal Park.
Homegrown talents of Dabawenyos were also featured in musical renditions and ballet performances during the Pag-abli event at the Rizal Park.
Mayor Sebastian Duterte, in his message delivered by Vice Mayor J. Melchor Quitain Jr., said this year’s Pasko Fiesta celebrates the resilience and solidarity of the Dabawenyo community.
“Together we have faced uncertainties, weather challenges, and emerged stronger than ever. Let the spirit of the holiday season remind us that in the face of adversity, we can always rely on the determination and resilience that define us as people of Davao City,” he said.
He also urged Dabawenyos to participate in the events that the city government has planned for them, and to celebrate Christmas with joy, love, and hope.
“As we light up this Christmas tree tonight, may it inspire us to illuminate our lives and the lives of others that even in the darkest times, light will always guide us to better days ahead. Let our hearts be filled with resilience that binds us, joy that uplifts us, and hope that carries us forward towards a stronger, brighter, and happier tomorrow together as one community,” he said.
Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, the chairperson of the Sangguniang Panglunsod Committee on Tourism and Beautification, said that Pasko Fiesta sa Dabaw combines competitive and celebratory activities that promote happiness and solidarity.
He added that Dabawenyos have demonstrated their commitment and solidarity in the face of natural disasters, adversity, and political difficulties.
“Our strength lies in our solidarity and shared commitment to rise above difficulties, making this celebration a testament to our ability to rebuild, recover, and move forward together as one community,” he said.
“As we come together with our loved ones during this joyful season, let us take a moment to reflect on the blessings we have received. Let us also not forget the true essence of the season, the spirit of giving back and extending our hearts in helping those in need,” he added.
Ela Carmen, a resident of Matina Aplaya, said she was happy to have witnessed the opening ceremony of Pasko Fiesta.
“Happy kaayo mi nga kada tuig na lang gyud nga ing-ani perminti sa Davao. Unya daghan pod naka-experience nga taga lain-laing lugar. Maka sadya gyud permi (We are very happy that every year we experience this kind of activity in Davao. And many people, even from different places, also experience it),” she said.
The event was also attended by diplomatic guests, city councilors, city hall officials, deputy mayors, and representatives from national government agencies and the private sector. CIO
