BAGUIO CITY—Saint Louis University once again brought light to the streets of Session Road all the way to Melvin Jones Grandstand for the 15th Lantern Parade concluding their 112th Founding Anniversary on December 1. Meanwhile, the city also light-up a pine cone-inspired Christmas tree adding awe to tourists and citizens.
Baguio City, popularly known as the city of pines, drew the design inspiration. It was a creative concept through the collaboration between the City Buildings and Architecture (CBAO) Office and the Tourism Office. The Christmas tree lighting ceremony was led by Mayor Benjamin Magalong and blessed by SLU President Rev. Father Gilbert Sales, CICM, where the lantern parade simultaneously followed.
This year’s celebration also gave the avenue for the return of lantern dance competition after the pandemic. Moreover, for the first time, the mother lantern was removed from the parade and replaced with an official float.
The presentation this year highlighted the many Philippine provinces where the Congregation of Immaculate Heart of Mary (CICM) is celebrated. The School of Engineering and Architecture displayed the rich culture of Nueva Vizcaya featuring lanterns designed with dragonflies, baskets, birds, tribes and water. The School of Medicine introduced Manileños inspired life with their lanterns lit into churches, Chinese dragon, and jeepney and kalesa. The School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts made the history and culture of Kalinga shine by including the 107 year’s old Apo Whang-od inspired lanterns while fish and the waves of the sea emphasized on the lanterns of the School of Nursing, Allied Health and Biological Sciences who represented Cagayan. Moreover, the School of Accountancy, Management, and Computing Information Studies graced the stunning beaches of the province of La Union. The School of Law gave light to the City of Smiles, Bacolod and the Basic Education School presented the rich Catholic heritage of Cebu. Although the School of Advanced Studies did not participate in the competition they still showcased the beauty of Agusan Del Sur.
Lantern dance competition was held in the Melvin Jones grandstand where participants filled their presentation with colorful five-minute performances of each province they represented.
The SOM brought home the overall champion and received Best in Illumination and Best in Field Performance awards. Meanwhile, SEA was announced as the first-runner up with Best Parade Concept and Best in Street Performance awards. STELA placed as second runner up along with Best Rhythmic Accompaniment. SOL received the third runner up, SONAHBS placed as fourth runner up and announced as Most Disciplined Group. Consolation prizes were given to BEdS gaining also as Most Colorful Group.
To add to the overall joy of the celebration, the University Mascot NAVI made a cheerful entrance. Further, the event ended with a fireworks display sponsored by SM City Baguio. By Adrian Mas
