Parañaque’s holiday decorations shine light on different sectors
MANILA, Philippines — The lights are up in different parts of the country as Christmas draws closer, making it a treat for some to stroll around their neighborhoods after dusk. Star-shaped lanterns and angel figures are a-plenty as well as Santa Clauses and Nativity scenes, the last two often in the same frame. During this time, the secular and the sacred make peace so viewers — both young and old alike — can enjoy a front row seat to these dazzling displays.
At the Parañaque City Hall this year, the holiday decorations consist of huge panels designed to look like a cathedral’s stained glass windows, affixed as they are on the second level of the main building. Each panel depicts a sector of this “mega city by the bay.”
Fisherfolk, vendors, the youth, health workers, teachers, constructions workers, ecumenical workers, government leaders and the LGBT community flank a Nativity scene with the Holy Family wearing Filipiniana-inspired attire.
Dotting the ground level in front of the city hall are 16 lighted Christmas trees representing the city’s 16 barangays while in the middle — directly across the building’s main entrance — are four salakot-wearing male figures.
The cartoon-styled men represent four Filipino values deeply rooted in all Parañaque citizens: Maka-Diyos (God-centered and guided by faith), Maka-bayan (patriotic and proud of Parañaqueño heritage), Maka-kapwa (compassionate and caring for others, and Maka-kalikasan (respectful and protective of the environment). On their shoulders, Bayanihan-style, they carry a lighted Christmas tree.
Seen in its entirety, the Parañaque City Hall decorations tell a story where each citizen does his part to celebrate Christmas not only as a season of joy but as a commitment to their values. It’s a charming display and one worth checking out if you’re ever in the vicinity.
RELATED: Christmas nostalgia, family traditions and celebs’ thoughts on the season
