TACLOBAN CITY — Barangay 07 Poblacion was declared grand champion of the 8th Can-avid Giant Lantern Festival, locally known as “Lamrag,” following a month-long celebration that showcased community creativity and reinforced Can-avid’s identity as the Christmas Capital of Eastern Samar.
The festival, held at the Can-avid Great Park, featured giant lanterns crafted largely from recycled materials, highlighting environmental awareness alongside local artistry. Barangay Rawis placed second, while Barangay 04 Poblacion finished third.
The ceremonial lighting of the lanterns on December 5, 2025, officially opened the festivities, which ran through January 2026 and drew residents and visitors to the town for a series of cultural and holiday activities.
Winning barangays received cash prizes, with P200,000 for the grand champion donated by House Minority Leader and 4Ps Party-list Representative Nonoy Libanan. Representative Sheen Gonzales sponsored the P150,000 second prize, while Governor Ralph Vincent Evardone provided P100,000 for third place. Vice Governor Maricar Sison-Goteesan donated P10,000 each for the consolation prizes.
Mayor Teves also extended P10,000 in financial assistance to help barangays produce their lantern entries.
Organizers said the annual festival continues to promote community participation, creativity, and environmental responsibility. Launched in 2017, the Can-avid Giant Lantern Festival has grown into a major holiday attraction in Eastern Samar. After a temporary suspension during the pandemic, the event has returned with expanded activities and broader participation from local communities.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
