last Dec. 16 at the Agri- Tourism and Heritage Complex (AHC) in Brgy.
Dao amid a big crowd of eager spectators who wanted to take a glimpse
of the blinking fairy lights of the Giant Christmas tree located
within the area.
The Pasko Nato '09 is the third ZamboSur Christmas Festival initiated
by the Provincial Government.
As usual, the lighting of the Giant Christmas Tree coincided with the
AHC Kids Caroling Contest and the first judging of the AHC LGU
Christmas Bazaar Contest that evening.
Cerilles, who is in her last term as the province's chief executive,
said she was happy with the fortitude shown by Zambosurians and
expressed her gratitude to the people for all the support she got.
"Your love, respect and cooperation have been my strength to pursue
big dreams and work even harder for the good of us all," Cerilles told
the crowd.
The governor added that despite the struggles she confronted during
her three terms, these were all conquered and she prevailed because
"we all worked together with one vision and one purpose."
She then congratulated all the Capitol employees, even calling them as
her "extended family who gave their best at the frontlines of
service."
The governor then reiterated her advocacy against illegal drugs and
mentioned her strong condemnation of the Nov. 23 massacre in Ampatuan,
Maguindanao, which killed 57 people including some 30 journalists.
"Let us therefore renew our commitment to work together in restoring
the dignity and peace in Mindanao, making it a land of fulfilled
dreams," she urged.
The opening and lighting activity at the AHC ended with a grand
fireworks display.
Meanwhile, Provincial Tourism Officer Anthony Padayhag said everybody
is welcome to visit the Provincial Government Center's nightly
activities of Pasko Nato '09.
Most of these activities are in collaboration with the National
Commission for Culture and the Arts under the Dance Season program of
the Provincial Tourism Office, he added.
REPORT BY PROVINCIAL PRESS BUREAU