LOOK: Pinoys in Turkey Hold Parol Parade
Around 150 members of the Filipino community joined the 2nd Annual Parol Festival in Ankara, Turkey.
Held last December 13, the event with the theme, “Ngayong Pasko, Nagniningning Tayo,” was organized by the Philippine embassy in Ankara.
It was highlighted by the announcement of the winners for the Parol-Making contest. The first prize went to Kristine Requino, Reysa Marie Bote and Rosel Habla while the second prize went to Cristeta Lima, Dianne Chris Lima, and Belen Quemada and the third prize went to Elian Escal, Anita Escal, and Irene Gatcheco.
All the 21 parol entries were displayed at the Rizal Garden.
After the parol contest, the community gathered at the embassy driveway for the parol parade along Kumkapi Sokak (street) where the Philippine post is located.
During the parade, famous Filipino Christmas carols such as “Ang Pasko ay Sumapit,” “Pasko Na Naman,””Thank you (Ang Babait Ninyo),” were sang by the community.
Towards the end of the parade and during the re-assembly at the Rizal Garden in preparation of the Parol Lighting, the community sang “Let there be Peace on Earth,” followed by the much-anticipated countdown where all the parols displayed in the Rizal Garden, and lights installed on the facade of the Chancery were simultaneously lit up to the tune of the song “Kumukutikutitap” composed by Ryan Cayabyab and popularized by Ms. Joey Albert and The Company.
After the lighting, the community and guests were served with light refreshments at the Mabini Hall.
ABS-CBN News
