A cold and drizzly night did not dampen the festive mood in Albay town as hundreds gathered together for the official lighting ceremony of the Christmas string lights at Rizal Street in Daraga on Sunday evening.

Consisting of 6,700 light emitting diode (LED) bulbs, the two-kilometer string lights, said to be the longest in the Bicol region, illuminated the intersection of the town center up to Bicol University’s main campus, the entry point of Legazpi City.

In his message during the program held beside the Daraga covered court, Mayor Carlywn Baldo urged everyone to “let their light shine” to ensure “a better Daraga.”

Using the analogy of the string lights, Baldo underscored the importance of unity in achieving progress, citing that “when all the bulbs are lit at the same time, they do not only become a thing of beauty but also light up people’s paths.”

Since its inception in 2018, the town’s holiday spectacle has become a highly anticipated event, attracting large crowds and bringing holiday cheer to residents and tourists alike.

Braving the chilly weather, Francis Baranquel, 46, a resident of Lacag village, said he was filled with hope when the string lights were lit up as he was reminded of the birth of Jesus Christ, the light of the world.

In an interview on Monday, Baldo revealed that aside from the Christmas string lights, a giant Christmas tree and a Filipino-themed Christmas village will also be put up in the coming weeks near the Daraga covered court as added attractions for this yuletide season.

“Through our bright and festive holiday attractions, we aim to make this season merrier by providing a place where families and friends can spend quality time together and capture wonderful photos as part of their Christmas memories for this year,” the mayor said. (PNA)