Gov defends Christmas park: It’s all donated

DIGOS CITY—The governor of Davao del Sur province is defending a Christmas theme park built in front of the capitol building against criticisms that it was an unnecessary project.

Governor Claude Bautista said on Friday that no government money was spent on the theme park.

Bautista said even the nightly fireworks display did not cost the provincial government anything.

“Our family, friends and supporters pooled funds to make this a reality,” he said.

“This is our little gift to the people of Davao del Sur,” the governor added.

Marivic Hubac, Bautista’s executive assistant, said, though, that the provincial government would pay for the power consumption of the Christmas theme park from December 9 to January.

Lorna Bandigan, provincial administrator, said this was so because the theme park’s electricity was being shared with the provincial capitol building.

“See for yourself how the entire perimeter of the capitol was converted into a theme park where you could not resist the temptation to stay for a while and enjoy the panoramic view that everyone must see,” Bandigan said.

A source from the provincial government, who did not want to be identified, said he was saddened by criticisms, mainly from Bautista’s archcritics, because compared to other areas, the provincial government had actually saved on money.

“In other areas, the local governments spend for Christmas lights and other things. Here, these were donated,” the source said.

“This is our gift to the people of Davao del Sur. A different way to celebrate the holiday season,” said Nonito Llanos, a senior provincial board member.

The theme park is open from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. every day.

“People from all walks of life will have equal opportunity to take pictures, stay at the grounds and watch the ingeniously sequenced multicolored LED lights,” he said. “It’s for all of us.” Eldie Aguirre, with a report from Orlando Dinoy, Inquirer Mindanao