Capitol to scale down Christmas celebration

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu Provincial Government is scaling down its Christmas festivities this year as part of its shift toward a more “modest and compassionate” observance in light of the recent earthquake and typhoons that devastated several towns in the province.

Governor Pamela Baricuatro, in her first Christmas Tree Lighting as governor, announced Monday night that the Capitol will forgo its traditional grand celebration and will instead allow only small and simple gatherings per office.

Baricuatro said the decision reflects the province’s current state, emphasizing that extravagance may not be suitable during a time when many Cebuano families are still rebuilding their lives and homes.

She stressed that this Christmas season must serve as a period of reflection, healing, and unity after Cebu endured political division and a series of natural calamities throughout the year.

“Light always returns. And we rise because we rise together,” Baricuatro said.

The governor also confirmed that these adjustments go beyond the Christmas party and will further extend to employee benefits, including the annual Christmas bonus.

Assistant Provincial Administrator Aldwin Empaces said the Local Finance Committee is currently reviewing the performance-based indicators and compliance requirements of the bonus, following a meeting with the Commission on Audit (COA).

He noted that while the exact amount cannot yet be disclosed, the Capitol is making sure the incentive will comply with COA regulations and reflect the province’s humanitarian realities.

To recall, employees under the previous budget cycle received up to P45,000 after the Provincial Board approved Supplemental Budget 3 amounting to P79.6 million in December 2024.

However, this year’s Christmas bonus is expected to be more “conservative.”

“Given the context karon, e-consider jud na ang humanitarian side. Among tan-awn nga compliant mi sa COA regulations moving forward,” Empaces said.

He emphasized that the provincial government must avoid making commitments that would violate budgetary rules or raise expectations beyond what is legally allowed.

The scaled-down celebration aligns with the Capitol’s ongoing relief and recovery operations for towns severely affected by the recent disasters.

Provincial Information Officer Ainjeliz dela Torre-Orong said the decision to divert resources toward disaster response better reflects the needs of the moment.

She added that while employees will still be allowed to hold simple gatherings, the priority remains the welfare of families impacted by the typhoons and earthquake.

Baricuatro, in her speech, thanked donors, local government units, national agencies, volunteers, private groups, and international partners for their continuous support in relief operations.

The governor vowed that the provincial government will continue working for “justice for Cebu,” assuring Cebuanos that their welfare will remain the priority moving forward.

She also described the Christmas tree lighting as a symbol of new beginnings after a year of challenges, encouraging everyone to choose unity and compassion over division.

“This Christmas is not about extravagance. It is about reflection… choosing to be better, not bitter; kinder, not angrier; more united, not divided,” Baricuatro said. — (FREEMAN)