Beautiful, colorful, bright, and creative.

This is how the giant Christmas tree and the Capitol Complex can be described after they were lit on November 29.

The lighting ceremony marked the start of the 2024 Christmas season across the province.

The event also featured performances by local youth.

As the Christmas season kicked off, the unique Christmas wishes of indigenous children were highlighted.

Like Rowenalyn, whose only wish is to improve their community in Labrador.

“This Christmas, I hope my wish comes true, that the road in the mountains will be fixed and lights will be installed so they won’t have difficulties anymore,” said Rowenalyn Dacdac, an IP.

The provincial government has promised to fulfill her wish, and the wishes of other indigenous children.

“This year, we focused on the IPs (Indigenous Peoples), especially those in remote areas that require traveling 1.5 to 5 hours to reach, with no direct transportation available,” said Maan Tuazon-Guico, Honorary Chairperson of the Paskuhan sa Kapitolyo 2024 and Chairperson of the First Spouses League of Pangasinan.

According to Governor Ramon V. Guico III, “First, we’ll address fire-prone areas. If you notice, their wishes are not for themselves but for their community. This inspires us to fulfill their requests—like improving roads, providing lights, and other needs—even though these areas are far-flung.”

The provincial government also continues to bring various services, assistance, and inspiration to Pangasinenses.

“All of us should strive to stay healthy and support the programs of our beloved province of Pangasinan. Stay safe, enjoy this season of merriment, but always remember that the true essence of Christmas is God’s love for all of us,” Governor Guico added.

The theme of this year’s Paskuhan sa Kapitolyo is “Paskong Ang Galing, Bida ang mga Tskiting.”

**VALERIE ANN DISMAYA