By Nimfa L. Estrellado Handmade decorations made from coconut shells highlight Agdangan’s creativity during its Christmas lighting ceremony....
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| Handmade decorations made from coconut shells highlight Agdangan’s creativity during its Christmas lighting ceremony. (Willie Aguilar Abaricia ) |
AGDANGAN, Quezon - Christmas is unmistakably in the air as Agdangan recently marked the season with a lighting ceremony celebrating its creativity, heritage, and agricultural roots. It reflected how the town continues to evolve while remaining anchored in the traditions that shape its identity.
Mayor Vicenta C. Aguilar led the lighting at the town center, where residents witnessed decorations made from coconut shells alone. The display honored Agdangan’s place in Quezon, a province known for growing large amounts of coconuts.
Communities nationwide unveiled creative Christmas displays, yet Agdangan stood out for pairing its artistry with a signature delicacy. While many Filipinos crave puto bumbong or bibingka during the season, Agdangan takes pride in a different local treat—its well-loved Puto Bao.
“We have always taken pride in our roots,” Mayor Aguilar said during the event. “This celebration honors not only the spirit of Christmas but also the skill and strength of every Agdanganin who turns simple coconut materials into something beautiful for everyone to enjoy.”
The displays included a giant Christmas tree, a tall angel, detailed Christmas balls, and a row of colorful lanterns made from coconut shells or “bao.” Residents also built a Belen and a cheerful Santa Claus figure from the same material, showcasing the town’s creativity and resourcefulness.
Using coconut shells carries meaning because coconut crafting has long been part of life in the region. For generations, people in Quezon have turned leftover coconut parts into tools, decorations, and household items that reflect their culture.
No celebration in Agdangan is complete without the well-loved delicacy Puto Bao, which was served throughout the event. Made from sticky rice and young coconut cooked in sugar, it remains one of the town’s best-known local specialties and a point of pride for many residents.
This year’s celebration marked the first time Agdangan staged a Christmas event of this scale, drawing strong interest from residents who came to see the town’s coconut-themed creations. The gathering highlighted how closely the town’s identity is tied to coconut culture, both in tradition and craftsmanship.
The lighting ceremony also marked the start of Paskong Pinag-isang Agdanganin, the town’s yearly Christmas celebration. The event reinforced the enduring spirit of unity and shared heritage within the community.
Through organized programs, displays, and activities, Agdangan showed that its Christmas spirit remains strong. Residents enjoyed seeing their traditions, creativity, and shared culture brought to life.
“It warms our hearts to see our traditions, crafts, and delicacies celebrated together,” Mayor Aguilar said. “Agdangan may be a small town, but our culture and creativity shine for all to see.”
As the lights continue through December, Agdangan prepares for holiday activities including a Mobile Legends Tournament on December 6, a Dance Contest on December 13, a Carol Contest on December 20, and a Drag Race on December 27 at the Municipal Covered Court.
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