Las Piñas City, known for its parol-making tradition for decades, celebrated the 19th Las Piñas Parol Festival and 15th Street Dance Competition, with the Villar Foundation leading the festivities.

The annual celebration, honoring the third generation of "Magpaparol ng Las Piñas," was held at the Villar Foundation Courtyard on Thursday, December 12, uniting the community in a celebration of tradition and culture.

The "Parol Festival," where magpaparol showcase their finest parols crafted from purely recycled materials, has become a vibrant tradition, highlighting creativity and sustainability.

“I am happy and thankful that we get to celebrate the city festivity in person as it highlights the efforts of the city in recycling materials,” said Senator Cynthia Villar, who initiated the annual event.

“Taus-puso po kaming nagpapasalamat sa ating mga Parol-makers, sa pagpapakita ng magagandang disenyong nagpapasigla sa larangang ito. Dahil sa inyong pagpupursige, nakilala ang Las Piñas bilang Metro Manila's parol capital,” she added.

Sixteen entries from the “Samahang Magpaparol ng Las Piñas” joined the competition.

Luzviminda Gallardo won the grand prize, taking home P20,000. Her parol stood out with its vibrant, intricate design, skillfully crafted using a variety of materials. The second prize was awarded to Glecy Dela Cruz, who received P15,000, while Richard Loverez claimed third prize and took home P10,000.

In the street dance competition, delegates from 12 elementary schools wowed the audience with their creative costumes, colorful props, and lively dance performances.

CAA Elementary School won the Grand Champion title and Best in Costume in the competition, earning a total of P60,000—P50,000 for first place and P10,000 for the costume award.

Moonwalk Elementary School claimed first runner -up, bringing home P30,000, while Doña Manuela Elementary School secured the second runner-up award with P20,000.

Senator Villar expressed hope that this year’s celebration would not only ignite pride but also strengthen the bonds of unity among the Las Piñeros, especially as they work towards achieving their future goals.

"I encourage everyone to channel your time, talents, and skills into furthering development, while continuing to support and grow our thriving industries, especially the parol-making tradition," the Senator added.