Antipolo sets Christmas Fiesta

Their earth-friendly thrust is in compliance with the YES (Ynares Eco-System) to Green Project which covers clean and green environment and livelihood opportunities through recycling and utilization of raw materials and by-products of local produce.

The traditional Tagalog folk song “Tayo Na Sa Antipolo” comes to life once more as this mountain resort city celebrates its colorful month-long Christmas Fiesta.

The merry season recently kicked off with the lighting of the city’s 40-foot circus-themed, earth-friendly Christmas tree led by Mayor Andrea Ynares. Just like in previous years, the tree used recycled plastic bottles, cups and cartons as part of the city’s commitment to environmental sustainability in its governance programs.

Joining the tree lighting were Rizal provincial governor Rebecca “Nini” Ynares, Rep. Adoracion Acop, Rep. Robbie Puno and city officials.

She said that their earth-friendly thrust is in compliance with the YES (Ynares Eco-System) to Green Project which covers clean and green environment and livelihood opportunities through recycling and utilization of raw materials and by-products of local produce based on Provincial Executive Order 11.

LIGHTING of the 40-foot, circus-themed and earth-friendly Christmas tree.

One of the most sought-after in the Calabarzon region, the Christmas Fiesta includes a grand parade; drum and lyre; marching band contests; choral competitions; the Mutya ng Antipolo pageant; earth-friendly YES parol and belen design contest; “Globe Tugtugan sa Plaza,” featuring rock bands Ex Batallion and Woopis; various sporting events and the 144th Sumulong Day as a tribute to its homegrown nationalist Don Juan Sumulong.

Religious activities include the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, the traditional Simbang Gabi, the visit of the Black Nazarene and the 15th anniversary of the dedication of the Cathedral of the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage.

Ynares concluded that this year’s celebration is doubly meaningful with the prestigious awards that Antipolo City has received recently — the Most Competitive (Component) City in the Philippines, Seal of Good Local Governance and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Most Business-Friendly LGU Award (City Level 2).