By Edwin Fernandez/PNA
COTABATO CITY — To show Christmas tradition is very much alive here, the city government, led by Cotabato City Mayor Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi, switched on Saturday night the city plaza’s Christmas lights and decors to mark the start of the festive holiday season.
Dubbed as “Maliwanag Ang Pasko Sa Cotabato,” the initiative stands as a symbol of unity among Muslims and Christians in the city since it is also during December that Muslims celebrate the Shariff Kabunsuan festival to mark the introduction of Islam in mainland Mindanao.
“It only shows that Cotabateños are truly united. Here in Cotabato City, the Christmas season is recognized as one of our biggest celebrations,” Guiani-Sayadi said.
She said Christmas is being openly celebrated by Christians here and highly respected by Muslims.
“Christmas time is significant not only among the Christian brethren since it is the time where we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ who is also the Prophet Isha of the Muslims,” Guiani-Sayadi said in her speech during the lights switching at the city plaza.
Girlie Frondoza, city tourism chief, said the newly-renovated city plaza is an ideal place for families to enjoy.
“This is what everyone loves about our city, what we love about us,” Frondoza said.
“We are inclusive, not exclusive. We are a united people, never divisive. This is where we are now, who we are at present. I’m sure you’ll agree with me that what we want is a continuity of respect and admiration for each other,” she added.
Frondoza added that what they want is a community livable among Christians, Muslims and Lumads.
“What we constantly hope for is freedom for everyone to practice each other’s beliefs, tradition and religion,” the tourism officer said.
