Students bring tradition to life in indigenous lantern contest

By Rowena T. Cruz Students showcase their indigenous and eco-friendly lanterns during the City Tourism Office’s Christmas competition at Pac...

By Rowena T. Cruz

Students showcase their indigenous and eco-friendly lanterns during the City Tourism Office’s Christmas competition at Pacific Mall. (Lucena City PIO)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Christmas stories come alive as students showcase their handmade creations in the Indigenous Christmas Lantern-Making Competition at the Pacific Mall Activity Center on Friday. The event, organized by the City Tourism Office led by Filomena Semilla , draws a steady crowd of parents, teachers, and mallgoers eager to witness the colorful display of lantern artistry.

Fifteen secondary and tertiary schools compete using a diverse mix of indigenous, recycled, and eco-friendly materials collected from their communities. Each lantern reflects not only technical skill and design but also the students’ commitment to promoting sustainability during the holiday season.



Mayao Parada Agricultural Integrated High School clinches the title of Grand Winner, presenting a lantern praised for its detailed craftsmanship and innovative use of natural fibers. Napoleon Ravanzo National High School secures second place with an entry noted for its vibrant colors and precise structural design.

Lucena City National High School–Main earns third place after unveiling a lantern that blends cultural motifs with modern artistic execution, drawing positive reactions from judges and spectators. Rounding out the top five are Ark Technological Institute in fourth place and Gulang-gulang National School in fifth, both recognized for their resourceful designs.

Mayor Mark Alcala and Vice Mayor Roderick “Dondon” Alcala express full support for the competition, citing its role in developing young talents and promoting environmental awareness. They also commend the participating schools for their use of indigenous materials, which they say strengthens Lucena’s cultural identity.

The Indigenous Christmas Lantern-Making Competition forms part of the holiday lineup prepared by the City Tourism Office for Lucenahins. It continues to serve as a community-centered celebration aimed at highlighting local creativity and spreading festive cheer throughout the city.