As December begins in Cebu, the usual festive fanfare is being replaced by a quieter, more reflective spirit. In the wake of a challenging year marked by earthquakes and typhoons, the cities of Talisay, Lapu-Lapu, and Cebu are making a significant shift in their holiday plans.
A Decision Rooted in Compassion and Law
Instead of hosting large annual Christmas gatherings for their employees, these Local Government Units (LGUs) have collectively decided to cancel the festivities. This move is not a sign of a lack of holiday cheer, but a demonstration of mature leadership and a steadfast commitment to the law. The decision ensures that public resources are directed where they are most critically needed: towards the ongoing recovery and rehabilitation efforts across the province.
The choice is firmly grounded in the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 (Republic Act 10121). This law mandates local governments to prioritize disaster response and allocate their calamity funds accordingly. Section 21 of RA 10121 explicitly requires that these funds be used for preparedness and recovery programs.
Upholding Fiscal Responsibility
By cancelling the city-wide celebrations, the LGUs are ensuring that public money remains available for emergency assistance, infrastructure repair, and preparation for potential aftershocks or new weather disturbances. This action aligns perfectly with the principles of the Local Government Code of 1991 (RA 7160), which compels city executives to exercise fiscal prudence.
Following a state of calamity, it is legally and ethically imperative for governments to avoid extravagant spending. The funds saved from the cancelled parties will be channeled into urgent post-disaster needs, including community development projects that help rebuild lives and livelihoods. This decision powerfully underscores that the government's primary role is to serve and rebuild, not to entertain.
Rediscovering the True Spirit of Christmas
Beyond the legal and financial rationale, this move honors the deeper, spiritual meaning of the season. City leaders are encouraging their employees and constituents to reflect on the core messages of Christmas: selflessness, compassion, and empathy.
This year, government halls will not be filled with the sounds of raffles, exchange gifts, or loud music. Instead, there will be a profound sense of unity. The celebration shifts from party venues to communities, where families help one another, barangays work together on rebuilding, and local officials ensure that every peso is spent where it truly matters.
This is not a lesser or sullen Christmas; it is a deeper one. The season is ultimately measured not by the volume of the festivities, but by the strength of solidarity with those who are suffering. This year, the cities of Talisay, Lapu-Lapu, and Cebu are choosing to stand with their people—fully and wholeheartedly.
