Balbalan jumps start Christmas Season with lantern parade and “Padalang”

Balbalan, Kalinga – Most towns, cities, and provinces in the country have adopted a tradition of lighting Christmas trees and other decorations during the Yuletide season, and so is the Municipality of Balbalan.

While the tradition is common in the Philippines, Balbalan adds some twists as it tries to provide a more enchanting experience to its constituents and visitors through lantern parades and competitions, highlighting use of indigenous and recyclable materials as evident in its ‘Padalang’ or lighting ceremony on December 01, 2024.

The said event began with a mass and was followed by the lantern parade participated by the different elementary and secondary schools in Balbalan. These children had a showdown and presented dances and chanting before the town folks who attended the event at the Municipal Ground.

At 10:00 p.m., the spectacles carefully and thoughtfully prepared by the Municipal Local Government Unit headed by Mayor Almar Malannag and Vice Mayor Rowina Damian were lighted, officially illuminating the entire Municipal Ground with the Yuletide season spirit.

Alongside the lighting was the fireworks display, but what set the stage even more magical this year is the downpour of snow like flakes which elicited cheers and giggles from the attendees, no matter the age.

Now with the official opening of Balbalan Christmas Village, Mayor Malannag is inviting the public to come with their loved ones and friends and experience a merrier Christmas at the place prepared by the LGU. The village is open for everyone from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. every day until January 1, 2025.

The 2024 Padalang ceremony is the third Christmas lighting ceremony held in Balbalan. The tradition was first adopted in 2022.