VIGAN CITY (PIA) – “The People’s Christmas tree that symbolizes our unity as one province.”
 
This is how Ilocos Sur Governor Jeremias Singson described the “One Ilocos Sur” Christmas tree that was recently switched on and opened to the public in front of the Provincial Capitol here.
 

“It showcases the products of the cities and municipalities – the symbol of blood and strength of our people, the source of hope and the center of our life as one province,” Governor Singson said during the switch-on ceremony on December 6.
 
Various one-town-one-product or OTOP such as Vigan longganisa, abel, native vinegar, tinubong, bawang, calamansi juice, pasagad, and crafts made of buri, bamboo and wood, among others were used for the decoration of the tree.
 
“May we draw inspiration from this as we move forward to reach our set goals. Let our One Ilocos Sur Christmas tree be a symbol of love and hope for those who need it. Let it be our source of light that will shine our way to progress and development,” he added.
 

Aside from embracing and promoting the spirit of Christmas, the provincial government said the Christmas-inspired village in the Plaza Salcedo and the surroundings of the Capitol aims to also boost tourist arrivals and generate income, as well as promote anew OTOP of the different cities and municipalities.
 
 “Let us take this season as an opportunity to reflect on our blessings and seek out ways to make life better for the people around us. Manipud ti gobierno probinsial ken ti pamiliak, iti kaunggan ti pusok a kas ama ti probinsiatayo, iyabrasak kadakayo amin ti panangkablaaw ko ti naragsak a panag-Paskuatayo ken naballigi a Baro a Tawentayo amin. Ragsak ken ayat koma ti mangsilnag kadatayoamin tapno agkikibintayo a mangsarabo ti tawen 2023 as one Ilocos Sur (From the provincial government and my family, from the bottom of my heart as the father of our province, I express to all of you my wish for a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Let love and happiness guide us as we welcome 2023 as one Ilocos Sur),” Governor Singson ended.

Vice Governor Ryan Luis Singson also expressed his gratitude to the people of Ilocos Sur or IlocosSurians for their continuous support to the activities and programs of the provincial government, which includes the annual lighting of the giant Christmas tree at the provincial government.

“This has been one of the most celebrated events of the provincial government not only because of the performances, lights and decorations but more so because we, your provincial officials, see in your faces and in your smiles the happiness, courage, and resilience that you feel which proves that despite the challenges we have collectively faced in the last two years, we have emerged triumphant and that with the programs, projects and activities of the provincial government indeed we have made a positive impact in protecting the health, safety and security of all IlocosSurians,” Vice Governor Singson said.
 
“The provincial government shall continue to endeavor to develop and implement programs that contribute to the betterment of the lives of all IlocosSurians especially the poor and marginalized sectors of our local community,” he added. (JCR/AMB/JMCQ, PIA Ilocos Sur)