Stars of hope
Christmas celebration is undoubtedly the longest and merriest occasion to Filipinos. Starting as early as September until the first week of January the following year, for the Philippines is predominated by Christians. It is a season for gathering, gift giving, culinary delights and all fun activities. It is also a perfect time for money making, an opportunity for every ingenious individual to venture into commercial enterprises.
One of the mainstreams during this season is the Christmas adornments. The Bamboo "parol" or star lantern is the most popular for it represents the guiding start of Betlehem, one of the symbols of Christmas.
Bacolod City has a parol zome along Gatuslao Street wherein a wide array of colorful star lanterns attractively dangle at the roadside adjacent to the wall of the Provincial Jail. These eye-catching lanterns were skillfully and personally hand crafted by the Provincial Jail inmates themselves.
This timeless yearly tradition has been a fund raising activity, the profits of which, will be given to the families and relatives of the less fortunate inmates. The mass production of lanterns starts by August and from thereon, finished products are made available to the public.
Each year they are coming up with new and creative ideas. Go, see for yourself and be fascinated with their various trendy designs. See how a simple "parol" diversifies into a multifaceted piece. With prices ranging from P50 to P350, according to sizes. Prices also vary for the number of lighting effects.
It's amazing how we Filipinos value the spirit of Christmas in our lives. As for the inmates of Provincial Jail, the annual lantern project shows that their detention is not a deterrent at all in making their families and fellow Negrenses very happy this Christmas.