Several local government units (LGUs) in Cebu are scaling down or canceling their annual Christmas events this year. Recent disasters, including a 6.9-magnitude earthquake, Typhoon Tino, and Typhoon Verbena, prompted officials to prioritize recovery and support for affected communities over large-scale festivities.
Cebu City Focuses on Disaster Recovery
Cebu City will not hold its traditional grand Christmas party. Instead, city departments may organize small, low-cost gatherings funded voluntarily by employees. A modest annual bonus for staff is being finalized, reflecting a shift toward supporting relief efforts and rehabilitation for communities affected by recent typhoons.
Lapu-Lapu and Cordova Simplify Celebrations
Lapu-Lapu City canceled its employee Christmas party, encouraging focus on helping families rebuilding after disasters. Cordova town also canceled its Inter-Barangay and Inter-School Christmas Village and Lighting competition. The town will still display a giant Christmas tree to maintain tradition and symbolize hope.
Mandaue City Holds Modest Festivities
Mandaue City plans to proceed with its annual Christmas lighting ceremony but will keep the event simple and low-cost. The city will not host a grand employee party and will instead distribute small food treats to staff. The approach highlights a balance between maintaining tradition and responding to recent disasters.
Emphasis on Solidarity and Community Support
Local officials across Cebu are encouraging simpler celebrations to prioritize aid for disaster-affected residents. Funds saved from scaled-down events can support poor families, children without food, elderly neighbors, and households recovering from calamities, reinforcing the idea of compassion and community solidarity.
Government Resolution Encourages Prudence
The Cebu City Council approved a resolution urging departments and barangays to keep celebrations modest and redirect resources toward disaster relief. The measure aligns with a national directive for government offices to adopt simple year-end activities, promoting empathy, responsible governance, and support for recovery programs.
Year-End Bonuses for Government Workers
Despite scaled-down celebrations, government employees will still receive their year-end bonus and a P5,000 cash gift. This applies to personnel who have served at least four months from January 1 and remained in government service as of October 31, ensuring recognition of their service and resilience.
