"Light a Star"

CEBU, Philippines – Thousand of years ago, a star led the Three Wise Men to the birthplace of the baby Jesus. The star then became the symbol of Christ's birth among Christians.

For many years now, The Freeman newspaper has been holding "Light a Star" on-the-spot parol (lantern) making contest. School children are the usual participants. The main purpose is to keep this bright Christmas tradition alive, especially in young people.

This Christmas season, the "Light a Star" is on its seventh consecutive year, with more participants from schools all over Cebu. Last Friday and Saturday, representatives from 53 schools showed their creativity and skills in making a parol.

The parol is the common Christmas décor in the Philippines. It is usually made up of bamboo frames and covered with colored Japanese paper. In the "Light a Star" contest, participants are encouraged to think up other materials for the parol; for example, recycling materials that would normally be thrown to waste.

Participants used new and recycled materials to make parol, like plastic bottles, candy wrappers, softdrink straws, recycled papers, shells and other indigenous materials.

Grade 6 pupils Abby Cañete, Mark Cuevas and Dahl Paalisbo, from Mactan Elementary School, have volunteered to join the contest to stimulate their artistic side. With the guidance of their teachers, they learn interesting new ideas. The outcome is a parol which they describe as "happy and colorful," supposedly representing their attitude as pupils.

The Freeman readers may vote for their favorite lantern starting on November 11 to 25, 2014, using a coupon to be cut out from the newspaper. Pre-judging is on November 20, for the 10 lanterns to qualify for the finals on November 26.

Winners are chosen based on the following criteria: originality, craftmanship, creativity on use of materials, and relevance of design. The proclamation of finalists is on December 1, and awarding of winners on December 3 to be held at Parkmall.