THE Iloilo City Government has started installing Christmas stars on streetlights to brighten and spread cheers of the Yuletide season.

The initiative is dubbed "Ilonggo Christmas Parol of Hope 2.0: Giving Light to Lives" following its first successful undertaking.

Mayor Jerry Treñas has issued an executive order for the project chaired by Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Iloilo Chairman Dr. Sandra S. Gomez with PCCI Iloilo President Jobert Penaflorida, Treasurer Maritess Lim, Auditor Alma May Tayo, Board Member Vincent Abellar and PCCI Iloilo Secretary Yen de Felipe.

The ceremonial lighting is set on November 14, in time for Iloilo Market Market 2020 on November 13-15 at SM City Iloilo Southpoint.

The trade fair that aims to help micro small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) is organized by PCCI Iloilo together with City Government; Obra Ilonggo; Iloilo Hotels, Resorts & Restaurants Association; and Iloilo Festivals Foundation Inc.

In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, PCCI Iloilo, in support of City Government, has brought back lanterns to light up major thoroughfares of metropolis.

"Receiving accolades last year, the parols will once again bring back the spirit of joy, happiness, love and hope for all Ilonggos. More importantly, as Christmas is the time for sharing and giving, these lanterns will be shining examples of giving light to lives," PCCI Iloilo stated.

"Bearing the national colors of our flag, the parols symbolize the call for patriotism and unity during these challenging times. The persons deprived of liberty at Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) work on these lanterns giving them livelihood at this crucial time," it added.

PCCI Iloilo intends to reuse, recycle and refurbish some 500-600 lanterns. The target areas are Diversion Road in Mandurriao and Gen. Luna St., Muelle Loney and Calle Real in City Proper.

"Our donors and friends will be able to enlighten the lives of our fellow Ilonggos, especially those affected by pandemic, as the collective donations will be used to raise funds for Christmas gifts for our frontliners, who are our modern-day heroes," PCCI Iloilo said.

"Let us continue to be beacons of unity and hope. May the spirit of Christmas be always in our hearts," it added. (PR)