The Municipal Plaza came alive with vibrant holiday festivities as it hosted an OPM Caroling Contest, a Lighting Ceremony, and the much-anticipated return of the grand fireworks display. These events marked the official opening of the Paskong Pinoy sa Plaza celebration, signaling the start of the Christmas season in Manolo Fortich on December 1, 2025.
Unity for Christmas in the Community
Mayor Rogelio N. Quiño led the celebration by inviting all Manoleños present, as well as visitors, to unite as he initiated the countdown for the lighting of the Christmas tree, plaza lights, and the fireworks display. He further expressed his gratitude to the 197 zones of Manolo Fortich for their collaboration in lighting up various areas in their respective barangays.
“Karon ang panahon nga atong gisugdan ang pagsaulog sa pasko dili lang sa plaza kon dili lakip na sa tibuok 22 ka barangay. Ang 197 ka mga zona kay sila nagtaod niining mga suga ug decorations. Salamat kaayo sa kahayag nga nagsimbolo sa panaghiusa,” says Mayor Quiño during his speech.
Festivities in Welcoming December
The OPM Christmas Caroling Contest showcased the unique vocal talents of Manolo Fortich as contestants demonstrated their skills in a cappella singing and harmony. Five groups competed, filling the evening with the warmth of Filipino Christmas spirit as they vied for awards such as Top 5, Best Choreography, and Best Costume.
Competition results:
1st — Merry Melodies
2nd — Pedslyn Apo Society
3rd — Maluko
4th — Harmony Carollers
5th — Biajencies
Best in Choreography — Merry Melodies
Best in Costume — Maluko Carollers
As the head organizing office of the event, the Municipal Tourism Office also opened slots for audience members who wished to perform as impromptu entertainers. Five performers willingly took the stage to delight the crowd.
Portrayal of ‘Paskong Pinoy’ in Caroling
The Merry Melodies of Barangay Lingion bagged first place in the contest with a presentation that blended vocal harmony with a heartfelt portrayal of a Filipino Christmas Eve.
Among the performers was Kim Mahinay, who explained their concept, “It was a shared idea, especially from the theme, “Paskong Pinoy,’ among gi tahi-tahi kung unsa man ang atong gaka imagine kung paskong pinoy and among na visualize nga caroling.”
Manolo Fortich welcomed December with a spirit of unity and celebration. The carols, creativity, and community participation highlighted the rich talent of its people and the essence of Paskong Pinoy—coming together, sharing light, and embracing joy. As festivities continue across the barangays, the opening night serves as a reminder that Christmas in Manolo Fortich is brightest when celebrated as one.
Editor
Date Posted: December 03, 2025