Sagay City lights up for Christmas with message of unity

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By Dolly Yasa

SAGAY CITY, Negros Occidental — Hundreds of families gathered in Sagay City’s public plaza on Thursday, December 11, as the local government officially opened its Christmas Fair 2025 and lit up the plaza in a vibrant kickoff to the holiday season.

Spearheading the event were Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva, Negros Occidental 2nd District Representative Alfredo “Thirdy” Marañon III, and Vice Mayor Narwin Javelosa, who jointly led the switch-on ceremony that illuminated the city’s central plaza.

In his address, Rep. Marañon expressed gratitude that Sagay was spared from the worst of the recent typhoons that hit northern Negros in the past weeks.

He reminded residents that, despite challenges, there is still much to be thankful for.

With this year’s theme, “Keep on Shining,” Marañon highlighted the enduring strength and resilience of Sagaynons.

“Sagaynons anywhere continue to shine, excel, and lead,” the lawmaker said.

Mayor Cueva echoed the spirit of unity and hope in his first Christmas message since assuming office nearly four months ago, telling the crowd that the occasion was not only about turning on lights but about lighting a deeper sense of community spirit.

“Tonight, as we officially switch on the lights of our Christmas Fair 2025, we also ignite something deeper,” Cueva said.

“Not just lights that brighten our plaza, but a shared commitment to continue building a Sagay that shines in character, compassion, and hope.”

Cueva stressed that the community’s strength lies in its shared values.

“Sa sulod sang pila lang ka bulan, nakita naton nga kung kita mag binuligay, madamo gid kita mahimo,” he said, emphasizing that progress is the result of collective action, not individual leadership.

He also reflected on the deeper meaning of Christmas, urging Sagaynons to practice generosity, forgiveness, and love.

“Christmas reminds us that true light is not measured by how bright we appear, but by how much love we share,” he said.

He added, “There can be no forgiveness without understanding, no understanding without love, and no love without God.”

Throughout his first months in office, Cueva said the city government prioritized programs in youth development, senior citizen welfare, marginalized group support, peace and order, environmental protection, and wider access to education, culture, and sports.

He shared a vision of inclusive growth and a “stronger, kinder, and more united” Sagay. “Sa tion nga madamo man sang pagsulay, naga pakita gid nga bisan madulom, Sagaynons light still shines,” he said.

The celebration culminated in a dazzling 30-minute fireworks display and the unveiling of the Christmas Fair installations, including festive lanterns and bright displays across the plaza.

The Christmas Fair 2025 serves as both the symbolic start of Sagay’s holiday season and a continuing tradition that fosters solidarity and celebration among residents.

In his closing remarks, Cueva officially declared the fair open and wished Sagaynons a joyful season.

“Merry Christmas, Sagaynons, and a truly fruitful and hopeful 2026 to all,” Cueva said.