THOUSANDS of people from all walks of life on Friday night, November 23, witnessed the switch-on ceremony of the light display that officially marked the start of the “Pascua na Zamboanga 2018.”

Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, who was joined by the other city government officials, led the switch-on ceremony held in front of the century-old and historic city hall amid the crowd of spectators.

Salazar encouraged the residents of this city, regardless of religion, to be united in the spirit of Christmas.

“May the spirit of Christmas strengthen our bond as Zamboangueños, Christians, Muslim and Lumads, together and united,” ahe said.

The switch-on at city hall was followed by the lights in the other landmarks like the historic Plaza Pershing, Paseo del Mar, Rizal Street, Veterans Memorial Monument, Mayor Vitaliano Agan Avenue (Nuñez Extension), Rotary rotunda, and Jardin Maria Clara in Pasonanca Park.

The mayor said this year’s Christmas light display and decors complement the theme “I Love Zamboanga” demonstrating peace, love and joy and are hand-made by the General Services Office team. (SunStar Philippines)