THE September tragedy has not been forgotten, but Dabawenyos are back on their feet and all set to share the season through the Pasko Fiesta 2016.
There is no better time to cheer up and find strength in the love and generosity of all.
The Davao City Government has been busy this month as several events and activities for the Pasko Fiesta are lined up.
The series of events include Pasko Fiesta sa Kahayag, Pasko Fiesta sa Kasadya, Pasko Fiesta sa Kadasig, Pasko Fiesta sa Hudyaka, Pasko Fiesta sa Himaya, and Pasko Fiesta sa Empleyado.
The activities under Pasko Fiesta sa Kahayag, a craft and creative-based showcase, include Kahayag sa Dabaw, Parada sa mga Parol, a parade of the lighted Christmas lanterns and Parol sa mga Barangay, a lantern display contest.
Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio urged the private sector to participate and light up their business and tourism establishments so the city will look more festive.
The Pasko Fiesta sa Kasadya (spread of good cheers and joy) contests include Pasko Pahalipay Dabaw and Panayegon sa Dabaw while Pasko Fiesta sa Kadasig events are Banda Dasig, Koro sa Pasko and Pasko Dabadaba.
Pasko Fiesta sa Hudyaka activities are tugtugan (Battle of the Bands), Yugyugan and Pasko Pahalipay ni Mayor, and the Pasko Fiesta sa Himaya, referring to thanksgiving ceremonies which include the Siyam ka Kaadlawon and Misa Pasalamat.
The Pasko Fiesta sa Empleyado, which promotes creativity and camaraderie among the Davao City Government employees, include activities such as the Pasko Kumbira sa City Hall, Christmas Tree, Indayog Pasko and Kantahan sa Pasko.
Hulagway sa Pasko (Photo Contest), Pasko Pahalipay para kay Lolo ug Lola, and Pasko Fiesta para sa mga Lumad, are also part of the month-long celebration.
Last December 2, Dabawenyos did not miss the chance to witness and render the first glance as the lighting of the City Hall's facade and its surroundings commenced, marking the start of Pasko Fiesta 2016.
Duterte-Carpio, likewise, headed the switching of the Christmas lights with other city officials and some children to officially launch this year's Pasko Fiesta.
The City Hall was adorned with colorful Christmas decorations, designs and ornaments.
"Nagpasalamat ko sa inyuhang tanan sa padayon nga pagsuporta sa local nga kagamhanan sa siyudad sa Davao (I am very much thankful for all your support to the local government of Davao)," Duterte-Carpio told Dabawenyos and spectators who were present during the activity.
The mayor encouraged the public to participate in different activities of the city and have the chance to unleash their creativity while uniting in this annual celebration.
Dabawenyos were happy and satisfied as the design of the City Hall was able deliver what was expected, considering the projected high number of tourist arrival who will visit the city.
"Our lives may not be perfect but we should celebrate it with happiness. Let us not forget to thank God for all the blessings regardless of how small it is," she said.