Christmas is here: Danao City officially opens Pasko’ng Danawanon 2023

By: Niña Mae C. Oliverio - Multimedia Reporter - CDN Digital | December 13,2023 - 08:42 PM

To officially open its Christmas festivities, the local government of Danao City on Tuesday, Dec. 12, lighted their giant Christmas tree at the city’s boardwalk. | CDN File Photo/Niña Mae Oliverio

CEBU CITY, Philippines — The local government of Danao City officially opened their Christmas festivities for 2023 on Tuesday evening, December 12, with a colorful tree lighting and opening of food bazaar.

At around 6 p.m. on Tuesday, the locals and government officials of Danao City, gathered at the city’s boardwalk to witness the Christmas tree lighting ceremony and the opening of ‘Kusina sa Danao.’

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In his message, Danao City Mayor Thomas “Mix” Durano, welcomed the locals (called Danawanons) and acknowledged the arrival of those balikbayans.

“Kami usab sa kagamhanan, naningkamot nga mahatagan og memorable nga kahulugan ang pasko dili lang tungod kay kini tradisyon ug atong gi-ampingan, apan tungod usab kay kini usa sa mga lig-on nga simbolo sa pagtoo,” Durano said.

(We in the government will work hard to give Christmas in our city a memorable meaning, and not just because this is a tradition that we care about, but because also this is a strong symbol of our faith.)

Apart from the Kusina sa Danao, the notable food market in the city, and the giant Christmas tree, the boardwalk also sheltered the city’s version of Christmas village to add more color to the guests and visitors going in and out of Danao during the festive season.

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Moreover, according to the city’s PIO, personnel from the City Engineering Office were the ones who crafted the giant Christmas tree, adorned with vibrant Christmas lights and lanterns.

Dubbed as, ‘Pasko’ng Danawanon,’ the city’s Christmas park started around 2013 to attract more visitors outside the city, according to the PIO.

Meanwhile, Rhea Cecilia Dayday, Sangguniang Kabataan chairman, said that witnessing the event throughout the years every December “leaves a lasting impact” not only to her but to the city of Danao.

“Beyond the enchanting decorations and lights, Pasko’ng Danawanon is ultimately defined by its people, emphasizing that the true spirit of the season lies in the community that comes together to make Danao shine brighter each year,” Dayday said.

During the opening ceremony, a colorful fireworks display also entertained the crowd.

The boardwalk is open until 10 p.m. based on the curfew hours imposed by the city government, and it will open its gates at 6 a.m. but during special events where minors are accompanied by their parents or guardians, they could extend until 11 p.m.