Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez led the switch on of the Christmas lights at the Victorias City Public Plaza to kick off the holidays on Tuesday night, November 15.
Victorias City is the first local government in Negros Occidental to hold a lights-on ceremony, Benitez said in his speech.
“Victorias City decided to do the switch-on early so that everyone will have a much longer experience with the Christmas Village and installations we prepared,” he said.
LOOK. Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez and his girlfriend, actress Sue Ramirez, enjoy the show after the switching on of the Christmas lights at the Victorias City Public Plaza Tuesday night.* Victorias PIO photos
“Under the new normal environment, we will try our best to share with you the yuletide cheers that is expected by all,” Benitez said.
He said Christmas decor at the plaza are lighted up with 106, 800 bulbs, “more than a hundred thousand reasons to bring back the joys and smiles in every Victoriahaon this Christmas”.
Benitez also announced that for all Victorias City government employees, he has already signed their 14th month pay and cash gift that will be deposited in their accounts on Wednesday.
He also said the rainbow walk in Victorias also symbolizes that Victorias is inclusive and does not discriminate.
“During the day, these newly painted walls and walkways will add color to our beautiful city environ,” he said.
Carnival rides also opened in Victorias City Tuesday night.
The switch on was followed by a concert by the Colegio de Sta. Ana de Victorias chorale, the Budakhel singers, and other performers.*