The pandemic has disrupted a myriad of things, but not the Filipino’s joyful spirit for Christmas. With Smart Communications, Inc.'s support, Bantayan Island has lit up its giant Christmas tree to mark the beginning of the Christmas season--an event all the Bantayanons look forward to every year.

Lourdes Villacampa, a 47-year-old carenderia owner, said that she was delighted to witness this celebration amid the pandemic. “We are still recovering from the problems we have faced because of COVID-19 but seeing this huge Christmas tree and the bright lanterns surrounding our plaza gives me assurance that we will soon see the end of this pandemic,” said Villacampa.

This year's Bantayan Christmas tree features the glowing Christmas lanterns lovingly handcrafted by Bantayanons deprived of liberty (PDLs) with the aim to spread joy and hope despite these trying times.

Tapping them for this lantern project is also a way of bringing in PDL to be a part of the town's Christmas celebration. This livelihood effort also provides extra income for their families this Christmas.

Mayor Arthur Despi of the Municipality of Bantayan, Cebu expressed his gratitude to Smart for supporting this celebration. “We hope to highlight in this celebration the renewed Bantayanon spirit – one that not only responds to the new normal but to become the gold standard of the new normal. We thank Smart for being our partner in making this event possible,” said Despi.

“It is always an honor to celebrate the Christmas season with the people of Bantayan. We recognize the efforts of the municipality to bring forth hope to its constituents. We at Smart are always ready to extend our support for the programs of the municipality, especially those that create positive impact to the communities,” said Marylou Gocotano, Smart Group Corporate Communications Manager-VisMin.

The ceremonial lighting was joined by Bantayan LGU officials lead by Municipal Mayor Arthur Despi and representatives from Smart headed by Marylou Gocotano, Smart Group Corporate Communications Manager-VisMin.