PNP Christmas Lighting
Christmas is indeed the most important religious and cultural event that we observe in the country, not only because it commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, but also because of the message that it imparts to us as a nation – to show love and compassion for each other, and to be the light upon which those who seek help or refuge could find the strength and the inspiration to move forward. The Philippines is known to have the longest Christmas celebration in the world.
Philippine National Police never fails to celebrate the yuletide season despite their red alert status during this event on November 23, 2022, a Ceremonial Lighting of The Christmas Tree and Lanterns held at the National Headquarters of the Philippine National Police in Camp Rafael T Crame, Quezon City.
Our PNP Chief, General Rodolfo S. Azurin, Jr. graced the Lantern and Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony with his wife, Mrs. Mary Grace L. Azurin, OLC Adviser, and the PNP Command Group.
This year’s celebration was highlighted by a variety of performances, including the PNP Band’s 10-minute Band Execution, the PNP Chorale’s Christmas song, The PNP Fitness Team and The Police Community Affairs Combo’s Christmas Mob Dance, all eliciting an explosive applause from the crowd.
Among the highlights was the breathtaking performance of the “Bailes de Luces”, a dancer of light who came from the town of La Castellana, Negros Occidental, and has achieved glorious recognition on the national and international stages.
While all the Uniformed and Non- Uniformed Personnel along with their children braved the crowds on the ground, the song “ Life is Beautiful “ was played, with the crowd singing and dancing in unison with the beat, as if being back to their youth years with the spirit of Christmas awakening their hearts to bring happiness to others and make them feel genuine concern and compassion for one another which was illuminated by a stunning Fireworks Display that made the audience’s eyes sparkle.
Christmas strengthens the Filipino family, our most basic social institution, as well as our renowned characteristics as Filipinos, such as our respect for faith and religion, the elderly, our hospitality and generosity and our hope for a better generation. These traits definitely shine the most during the Christmas season.
It is truly a blessing to be able to enjoy Christmas this year as we go through the challenges of the CoVID-19 pandemic, bearing in mind the importance of collaboration as a key element in the successful pursuit of peace and progress. PNP and its counterparts in the military and law enforcement services, and all the other friendly forces, are working hard to ensure a most safe, peaceful and Merry Christmas that will make everyone believe that, indeed, LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL.
