By CESAR JOLITO III
Bacolod City once again transformed into a vibrant center of holiday celebration as thousands of residents and visitors gathered for the 2025 Christmas Festival of Lights on Saturday, December 13, highlighting the city’s spirit of unity, creativity and community partnership.
The festival featured a grand street and arena dance competition that saw seven groups from STI-West Negros University (WNU) parade from Megaworld The UpperEast to the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC), turning major city streets into a showcase of music, lights and coordinated performances.
Capping the night was the victory of the Pink Vikings from the university’s College of Hospitality and Tourism Management, who emerged as this year’s champions.
The Red Sentinels of the College of Information and Communications Technology placed first runner-up, while the Blue Guardians from the College of Education finished second runner-up.
Other participating groups — the Purple Wizards, Yellow Tycoons, Orange Erudites, and Green Titans — added to the festive atmosphere.
With the theme “Christmas for Kids,” the annual event emphasized family-oriented entertainment and inclusive celebrations, drawing children, parents, and seniors to the parade route and the BCGC grounds.
Mayor Greg Gasataya, joined by Vice Mayor Claudio Puentevella, city councilors, and STI-WNU officials, thanked partners and volunteers for helping sustain the tradition despite recent challenges faced by the city.
“This is a classic example that if each of us does our share and works together, we can achieve something meaningful for Bacolod City,” Gasataya said.
STI-WNU President Mark Molina reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting city-led initiatives, noting that events such as the Christmas Festival of Lights help lift community morale, especially in the aftermath of Typhoon “Tino,” which affected thousands of families.
The program was further enlivened by performances from various drum and bugle corps, illuminating the BCGC and reinforcing Bacolod’s message of hope, resilience and shared celebration this Christmas season./CJ, WDJ