KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato (PIA) -- A Christmas lantern made by persons deprived of liberty in South Cotabato wins as best parol in the "Isang Bituin, Isang Mithiin" nationwide parol-making contest spearheaded by Malacañan Palace's Office of the Social Secretary. 

Entitled "Dreamweaver's Parol," the lantern from South Cotabato is the final parol to be installed on Malacañan Palace's  Christmas Tree before its official lighting led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday, December 3.

According to the Provincial Information Office, the Dreamweaver's parol was made by inmates of the South Cotabato Rehabilitation and Detention Center (SCRDC) and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology - Koronadal City based on a design by fashion designer Ivan Raborar.

The lantern showcases the intricate bead works of the Blaan tribe and the distinct textile weaving of the Tboli tribe.

As grand prize winner, South Cotabato received P500,000, cellphone package from Globe, laptop package from Shopee, and P15,000 RFM Go Negosyo package.  Human Resource Development Officer Liezel Gazo, Jimmy Gayanilo, and Ivan Raborar received the award. 

Isang Bituin, Isang Mithiin parol-making competition is participated by all provinces across the country. 

The competition requires that lanterns are made of at least 70 percent materials that are endemic to the participating province and can withstand any type of weather.  

Other winners are Ilocos Norte and Abra.

(Photos: RTVM)