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MANILA, Philippines – The UP Lantern Parade began in 1922 when it was inspired by lanterns being carried to light the way of people on their way to misa de gallo. 90 years later, the Lantern Parade has evolved to an even bigger celebration as various colleges, student organizations, and sectors of the UP community come together with their floats and presentations to celebrate the end of the year.
The theme for this year’s parade was “Dangal at Kahusayan sa Paglilingkod sa Bayan” which sought to promote awareness about environmental protection and the benefits of recycling.
The parade started off with the UP ROTC Symphonic Band’s rendition of “Oppa Gangnam Style” followed by the different colleges and their respective floats and presentations.
The College of Human Kinetics, this year’s winner for the “Natatanging Belen” category, wowed the crowd with a routine from the UP Pep Squad. Some of the much-awaited highlights of the parade included the UP Babaylan with the theme “20 Years of Bongga.”
The College of Fine Arts has never failed to impress the crowd with their creative floats and lanterns. Their theme for this year involved flying and it was creatively and loosely interpreted by the students and faculty. From UFOs and paper airplanes to flying kisses, the College of Fine Arts proved yet again that yes, you do save the best for last.
The Lantern Parade isn’t just a place for merry-making and entertainment, it’s also a venue for the students and the community to present relevant issues. The Casiguran farmers, fisherfolk, and indigenous people took part in this year’s parade as part of their march against APECO.
Winners of this year’s community-wide contests were announced after the parade entered the Amphitheater. The winners are as follows:
- Karolfest (Student Category): 3rd Place, College of Science; 2nd Place, College of Law; 1st Place, tie between College of Social Sciences and Philosophy and the College of Engineering
- Karolfest (Faculty and Staff Category): College of Science
- Natatanging Belen (College Council): College of Human Kinetics
- Natatanging Belen (Community Category): Village B
- Parol: 3rd Place School of Urban and Regional Planning; 2nd Place, College of Arts and Letters; 1st Place, College of Mass Communication
The Parade ended with a message from the UP President, Alfredo E. Pascual, who called on the community to serve in light of the recent disaster. The fireworks display followed soon after. For the full coverage of the Lantern Parade, check out our live blog.
We’ve got photos of the Lantern Parade here:
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