December 14, 2024- Danao City once again radiates the warmth and joy of Christmas season as it holds the year 2 of its Pasundayag sa Paskong Danawanon Christmas Lantern Parade.
This year’s much-anticipated event brings together nine (9) clusters of performers representing the different sectors of Danao City, each showcasing uniquely themed lanterns, dazzling floats and breathtaking performances that illuminate the city streets with creativity, unity and festive cheer.
The parade is also a friendly competition, with clusters receiving subsidies from the city government to support their participation, alongside cash prizes for the top winners.
Danao City Tourism Chair Hon. Ivy Durano, in her opening message, highlights the significance of this yearly tradition: “This lantern parade is a testament to our community’s creativity, unity and unwavering faith in the true meaning of the season…
The lanterns we see tonight are more than just beautiful works of art; they symbolize the light of unity and faith that guides us, especially during challenging times. Each sparkle, each design, and each flicker of light reflects the collective effort and passion of our community—schools, barangays, organizations, and individuals—coming together to make this celebration truly extraordinary.”
From Plaza Mano Amon to its streets, down to the final performances at the City Boardwalk, Danao City transform into a grand stage of color and spectacle, with each of the nine clusters brings their themes to life:
o Cluster I (DepEd Danao City Division) dazzles with their theme, “Christmas Tree of Hope,” portraying the importance of education and resilience in fostering hope for the community.
o Cluster II (Liga ng mga Barangay) enchants with their snowy spectacle amidst the tropical cityscape with their “Winter Wonderland” presentation.
o Cluster III (Women’s Federation, Danao City Chapter) delights with their “Frozen” theme, symbolizing the strength and grace of Danawanon women.
o Cluster IV (Colleges and Universities of Danao City) takes the crowd back to simpler times with “Pasko sa Barrio,” evoking nostalgia for traditional Filipino Christmas celebrations.
o Cluster V (SK Federation and Youth Organizations of Danao City) inspires with their “Messengers of Peace” performance, reflecting the power of youth in building harmony.
o Cluster VI (LGU-Danao City) shines brightly with “Colors of Christmas,” symbolizing Danao City’s vibrant leadership and its people.
o Cluster VII (National Government Agencies), with their golden bells, rings in the joy of the season, symbolizing unity among the national agencies serving the public.
o Cluster VIII (LGBTQIA+ Community) mesmerizes with “Himig ng Pasko: The Christmas Musical,” showcasing diversity and inclusivity.
o Cluster IX (Non-Governmental Organizations) inspires with their theme, “Celebrating Life: Inspiring Communities Through Christmas,” highlighting their
commitment to community welfare.
Danao City Mayor Mix Durano expresses his pride, saying, “Daghan kayo ta og angay ipasalamat isip usa ka komunidad, isip usa ka Nagkahiusang katawhang Danawanon, daghan ta og kadaugan ug mga pasidungog nga testamentso sa kalambuan sa atong dakbayan.
Ni-apas pa jud ang laing blessing, ang pagkahimong second class city sa Danao… Let us expect more and more good news because exciting days are ahead of us. Welcome to the second Christmas Lantern Parade, our Christmas Karanaa. A fitting celebration for the country’s most improved city, truly Danao is the best place to be!” The event’s most magical moment comes during the grand finale, where all nine clusters unite for an electrifying group performance, dancing to the city’s newly revealed Christmas jingle, “Pasundayag sa Paskong Danawanon.” The harmonious blend of lights, music, synchronized movements and the grand fireworks display fill the air with awe and festive joy, leaving an unforgettable mark on the hearts of everyone present.
The evening concludes with the announcement of the winners, who are awarded both cash prizes and plaques for their outstanding performances:
Grand Champion:
Cluster VI – Local Government Unit of Danao City – P50,000
1st Runner-Up:
Cluster IV – Colleges and Universities of Danao City– P30,000
2nd Runner-Up:
Cluster IX- Non-Government Organization of Danao City – P20,000
Minor Awards:
Best in Street Dancing: Local Government Unit of Danao City
Best in Lantern: Local Government Unit of Danao City
Best in Durano-Macapagal Boardwalk Presentation: Colleges and Universities of Danao City
Best Audio Van: National Government Agencies of Danao City
Best Choreographer: Mark Estellore
Additionally, all non-winners receive P10,000 as consolation, ensuring that every cluster is recognized for their efforts.
Investing in community and family welfare has been a cornerstone of Danao City’s renewed direction, alongside its extensive programs and services. The Pasundayag sa Paskong Danawanon reflects this commitment, celebrating not only the season but also the enduring unity and creativity of the Pamilya’ng Danawanon.
As this annual tradition shines brighter every year, the Pasundayag sa Paskong Danawanon continues to foster joy, unity and the true essence of Christmas in Danao City.
The city looks forward to lighting up the holidays for years to come, spreading festive cheer far and wide,
HERE AND NOW.