PALO, Leyte– Governor Carlos Jericho ‘Icot’ Petilla on Tuesday night, Dec.10, led the ceremonial lighting of the giant Christmas Tree and holiday decorations at the provincial capitol complex, marking the official start of the festive season.

The event was attended by former Palo Mayor Frances Ann Petilla, who serves as the provincial tourism consultant, along with Board Members Carlo Loreto, Raissa Villasin, Kathryn Kabigting, Maria Corazon Remandaban, and Ronan Christian Reposar.

Also present were SK Leyte federation president MJ Luinly Lumen, PCL Leyte Chapter president Carmen Cari, Palo Mayor Remedios Petilla, and several vice mayors from across the province.

Gov. Petilla shared that the Christmas decorations aim to bring joy and entertainment, particularly to children.

“Christmas is not complete without lights. The atmosphere changes when you see the lights, and you feel the Christmas spirit,” he said.

Beyond attracting visitors, the decorations offer a space for families and children to create lasting memories.

“This brings memories, and we want these memories to be cherished by the children,” the governor added.

The capitol’s Christmas Tree design stands out for its creativity and significance.
Unlike traditional designs placed on the ground, Leyte’s Christmas Tree is set on a ship surrounded by gift boxes. A Boy Scout statue stands at the ship’s bow, while Santa Claus is positioned at the stern.

This year’s theme draws inspiration from the 80th anniversary of the Leyte Gulf Landings, connecting the holiday display to the province’s rich history.

Visitors can view the Christmas decorations at the provincial capitol in Palo from 6 pm to 10 pm daily. However, access is limited to the capitol compound, as entry inside the capitol building is restricted. (ROEL T. AMAZONA)

TACLOBAN CITY — Tingog party-list Representative Jude Acidre has expressed deep concern over the conviction of 13 Filipino women in Cambodia, who were sentenced to prison for their involvement in an illegal surrogacy operation.

Acidre called for a thorough investigation into whether these women could be victims of human trafficking, particularly under the United Nations’ definition, which includes exploitation through deception or coercion.

“This matter is being closely studied, as there is a possibility that our countrymen were targeted by a deliberate scheme,” Acidre said, emphasizing the importance of understanding the situation fully and its broader implications.

The representative also assured the public that Philippine authorities, including the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), are working with Cambodian officials to ensure due process and protect the rights of the affected Filipinas.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)

TACLOBAN CITY — To mitigate the impact of heavy rains that cause significant damage to lives and properties, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 2nd District Engineering Office has completed a slope protection structure along a portion of the Daguitan River in Barangay Poblacion District IX, Burauen town.

District Engineer Leo Edward Oppura reported that the project spans 631.60 linear meters with a height of 5.80 meters and was completed with a budget of P95.77 million.

“This project will prevent erosion and slope failure, which can damage infrastructure and endanger people. The district office recognizes the importance of continually building slope protection structures in the area,” he said.

Flood control structures along river basins safeguard riverbanks from further soil erosion. During heavy rains, rising water levels and strong currents can erode the riverbanks, posing risks to nearby communities and infrastructure.

The Daguitan River, one of the largest streams in Burauen, traverses the southern part of the town, including the town area.

The project is funded under the DPWH-CY 2024 General Appropriations Act through the flood management program—construction/rehabilitation of flood mitigation facilities within major river basins and principal rivers. It was undertaken by Fairchild Builders and Developers, Inc., with work commencing on February 26, 2024, and completion expected by December 2024.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)