BY ERWIN ‘AMBO’ S. DELILAN
PHOTOS BY YASMIN PASCUAL-DORMIDO AND BACOLOD PIO
THE NAME “Madam Suzette Agustin” echoes through the halls of academia. Renowned as the former owner and president of West Negros University (WNU) in Bacolod City, her contributions to education and social responsibility are not only commendable but also inspiring.
Among her many initiatives, the annual Parade of Lights, held every December, stands out as a beacon of tradition.
Originating in 1996, the Parade of Lights began as an exclusive event of the Physical Education (PE) Department at WNU. Dressed in their PE uniforms, first and second-year PE students illuminated the night with portable Christmas lanterns.
Starting from the WNU campus, the parade culminated at the Bacolod Public Plaza, marking the festive commencement of Christmas in Bacolod.
Embracing a Rich Legacy
In 2013, the System Technology Institute (STI) acquired WNU, inheriting Madam Suzette’s legacy, including the cherished Parade of Lights.
Recognizing the cultural significance of this event, STI-WNU not only preserved it but also infused it with fresh innovations. These included the introduction of Christmas floats and the inclusion of dancers accompanying the lantern bearers, adding more vibrancy to the festivities.
In 2018, the Bacolod City Government, recognizing the event’s cultural importance, officially adopted and institutionalized this wonderful Christmas tradition. Councilor Em Ang, then chair of the Sangguniang Panlungsod’s Committee on Tourism, was instrumental in this, drafting City Ordinance No. 868.
This ordinance renamed the event as the Christmas Festival of Lights and established its celebration on the first Saturday of December in Bacolod City.
The ordinance further stipulated the involvement of the city mayor and the Committee on Tourism in overseeing the festivities, aiming to spread joy, hope, and a sense of community among the residents.
A Festive Showcase
This year, on December 2, 2023, the STI-WNU’s Christmas Festival of Lights was marked by a grand Lights-On Ceremony at the Bacolod City Government Center.
The event saw spirited competition, with the “Orange Erudites” of the College of Engineering defending their title in both the parade and dance categories.
The “Blue Guardians” and the “Yellow Tycoons” from the Colleges of Education, and Business Management and Accountancy, respectively, were the proud runners-up.
A Beacon of Continuity
Bacolod’s traditional Parade of Lights, now the Christmas Festival of Lights, is a cherished heritage. It is a testament to the city’s ability to adapt and evolve while honoring its roots.
Thanks to Madam Suzette Agustin’s vision, what started as a simple school tradition has transformed into a significant cultural legacy, making the “City of Smiles” shine even brighter during the festive season./PN
