The spirit of Christmas illuminated Mandaue City on Friday evening, November 28, 2025, as hundreds of residents gathered to witness the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at City Hall. The event officially launched the much-anticipated Pasko sa Mandaue 2025 celebrations.
A Celebration of Resilience and Hope
Mayor Thadeo Jovito "Jonkie" Ouano presided over the ceremony, delivering a powerful message that resonated deeply with the community. He reflected on the significant challenges the city had recently endured, including being struck by both an earthquake and a typhoon in the preceding weeks.
"Tonight, as we gather for our annual Christmas Lighting Ceremony, our hearts have been tested but never broken," Mayor Ouano declared before the captivated crowd. "These were two challenges that shook our city, our routines and our sense of safety. Yet here we are, standing together once again."
Deeper Meaning in the Holiday Lights
The mayor emphasized that this year's festive display carries a significance far beyond mere decoration. He framed the brilliant lights as powerful symbols of the city's collective strength and unyielding spirit.
"They are not just decorations," Ouano stated. "Every light we switch on tonight represents a story of courage from responders, volunteers, City workers, barangay workers and every ordinary citizen who chose to help rather than hesitate."
He reminded everyone that the essence of Christmas—hope—persists even through the darkest times, asserting that "the light of Christmas cannot be extinguished no matter how difficult the challenges we face."
Gratitude and a Forward-Looking Vision
Mayor Ouano took a moment to express profound gratitude to the various groups that provided crucial support during the city's time of need. He specifically thanked the private sector, national agencies, neighboring local government units, and other partner organizations.
"Their generosity brought comfort to many families who needed it most," he acknowledged.
Looking ahead, the mayor framed the lighting ceremony as a beacon for the city's future. "As we light up Mandaue City tonight, let this be a reminder that we build, we rise and we move forward together," he proclaimed, setting a tone of collective progress and unity.
The festive evening culminated with Mayor Ouano's official declaration: "As your city mayor, I now declare Pasko sa Mandaue 2025 open." The ceremony successfully transformed the City Hall into a dazzling spectacle of light and holiday cheer, marking a joyful and resilient start to the Christmas season for all Mandauehanons.
