The Villar Foundation led the celebration of a major cultural milestone as Las Piñas marked the 20th Parol Festival and 16th Street Dance Competition on December 12 at The Tent, Vista Global South. The annual event gathered students, teachers, parents, and community members in a vibrant showcase of dance, artistry, and local heritage.

The Parol Festival continues to honor the city's skilled aartisans, known as "magpaparol," who have preserved the craft of parol-making for decades. This year's Parol-Making Competition featured handcrafted lanterns made from a wide variety of materials-from indigenous components to recycled items - highlighting creativity, sustainability, and Filipino craftsmanship.

Complementing the lantern display, the Street Dance Competition brought festive energy to the celebration. Eleven school-based performing groups captivated audiences with colorful costumes, thematic props, and choreography inspired by the iconic parolm a symbol of hope and Filipino Christmas tradition.

Former Senator Cynthia Villar, Managing Director of the Villar Foundation, commented the youth for their impressive performances, describing item as a reflection of "a bright future for Las Piñas, as bright as the light of our parols." She also expressed appreciation for teachers, parents, and parol-makers who continue to cultivate and safeguard the city's traditions.

"Dahil sa inyo, lumalaki, gumaganda, at mas nagiging makabuluhan ang ating selebrasyon taon-taon," Villar said.

"Tandaan natin, ang tradisyon ay nabubuhay dahil pinipili nating ipagpatuloy ito.

At kayo ang ating kabataan at parol-makers ang magpapanatili ng ilaw ng Las Piñas sa marami pang taon," she added

The Villar Foundation's continued support for the festival underscores Las Piñas City's dedication to cultural preservation, youth development, and community participation. The Parol Festival reaffirms the traditions that have earned Las Piñas the distinction of being the Parol Capital of Metro Manila, while inspiring future generations to carry the craft forward.

Winners of the 2025 Parol Festival Competitions

PAROL MAKING CONTEST