Gov. Hilario Davide III and wife Jobella lead the lighting of a nativity scene and the Capitol’s outdoor Christmas decor which includes th signage ‘Kalambuan sa Matag Sugbuanon’ or Progress for each Cebuano. (CDN PHOTO/JUNJIE MENDOZA)
THE Cebu provincial government welcomed the first day of December by lighting up its own outdoor nativity scene or “belen” at the balcony of the Capitol last night.
Multi-colored Christmas lights illuminated the facade of the building and its grounds as Gov. Hilario Davide III, his wife Jobella, Provincial Board members and department heads led a countdown to 6 p.m.
Large cut-outs made bright with Christmas lights can be seen on the second floor balcony below the dome.
The infant Jesus is flanked by His parents, and around them are animals, a shepherd boy and the Three Wise Men.
The words “Kalambuan sa Matag Sugbuanon (Progress for Each Cebuano) are lighted up in one side of the landscaped Capitol grounds.
Governor Davide, in a speech last night, said this was the goal of the provincial government.
“Progress for each Cebuano cannot be accomplished overnight. It is a long process, a slow one,” he said.
He said that he wants to make sure that he has been able to contribute great progress to Cebuanos before his term ends on June 30, 2016.
He reminded those who witnessed the switch-on ceremony to be grateful to God for all the blessings He has given.
The governor said he hopes the provincial administration will be united, not just this Christmas, but in all aspects especially in public service.
The illuminated Capitol grounds will be open to the public every night for people who want to pose for souvenir shots and take photos, said Provincial Information Officer Ethel Taneo.
She said the decor will be on display until January next year.