Calapan City in Oriental Mindoro kicked off the holiday season with the lighting of its giant Christmas tree and festive decorations at the new city hall during the “Grand Pailaw” program.

The program was held on Friday, December 13, 2024.

Mayor Marilou Flores-Morillo, along with city officials and employees, led the symbolic lighting ceremony at the city esplanade.

The event aimed to bring back joy and energy to the city after recent weather disruptions.

Mayor Morillo said the local government, in partnership with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) – Calapan City District Jail, showcased lanterns or parols crafted by persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).

The initiative not only brought light to the streets but also symbolized the PDLs’ creative transformation and second chances.

CRAFTS BEHIND BARS

In Odiongan, Romblon, Mayor Trina Alejandra Firmalo-Fabic encouraged the public to support PDLs by purchasing their handcrafted items this Christmas season.

These include lanterns, fashion bags, coin purses, flower pots, and indigenous products, which were produced as early as September to meet holiday demand.

The BJMP Regional Office MIMAROPA hopes that these efforts would provide a brighter Christmas for PDLs by giving them opportunities to earn income and support their families.

For PDLs, however, the season means more than just earnings, according to JO3 Joefrie Anglo, IO-BJMP MIMAROPA.

The appreciation of their work and creativity brings renewed hope and a sense of purpose, proving that the Christmas spirit knows no boundaries.

(with reports from JO3 Joefrie Anglo, IO-BJMP MIMAROPA)