Text and photos by CESAR JOLITO III
As Christmas lights flickered on across the town plaza on December 14, Moises Padilla did more than mark the start of the holiday season — it illuminated a collective journey of healing, faith and hope after the devastation wrought by Typhoon “Tino.”
With the theme “Bangon sa Kasanag sang Paglaom,” the municipality’s annual lights-on ceremony took on deeper meaning this year.
Once known simply as a festive tradition, the event became a solemn yet uplifting reminder of resilience for a town counted among the hardest hit by the powerful typhoon, which left flooding, damaged homes and disrupted livelihoods in several barangays.
The ceremony was led by Mayor Ella Garcia-Yulo and Vice Mayor Felix Mathias Segundo Yulo III, joined by municipal officials, community leaders and residents who gathered in quiet reflection and renewed optimism.
“This lights-on ceremony has always been part of our tradition every December 14,” Mayor Garcia-Yulo shared, noting that the date also coincides with the birthday of her late father.
“But this year is different. After Typhoon ‘Tino,’ our focus is on those who lost so much — the families who were hard hit, who are still recovering,” she added.
She said the glowing lights symbolize more than Christmas cheer.
“They stand for healing, unity, strength, and renewed hope for our people,” the mayor added.
Beyond physical recovery, the local government also emphasized spiritual healing, recognizing the emotional toll left by the disaster.
Mayor Garcia-Yulo said the municipality partnered with religious groups, including the Assemblies of God, to hold a religious concert aimed at comforting grieving families.
“In times of deep sadness and loss, people need spiritual healing. This is why we focused on faith-based activities — to help heal hearts, to remind everyone that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone,” she said.
Addressing her constituents, Mayor Garcia-Yulo reminded residents of the true meaning of the season.
“Bisan ano pa nga sitwasyon ang aton gina-atubang, indi gid ‘ta dapat makalipat nga ang Pasko nahanungod kay Kristo,” she said.
“It is about salvation, about hope. Whatever we face here is temporary, but our hope remains in Christ,” the mayor added.
As the Christmas lights glowed against the night sky, Moises Padilla stood as a quiet testament to perseverance — proof that even after tragedy, a community can rise again, guided by faith, solidarity and the enduring light of hope./CJ, WDJ