Christmas in Davao City

One morning I saw an AETA or native people in Davao City coming towards my house then she asked for a Christmas gift. I told her that she waits for a while because I will look for my old clothes or other things that I can give. I found an old red blouse and a pair of black shoes then I gave those things to her, she said that she doesn't know how to wear the high heeled shoes. I am surprised on what she said because this time, I seldom see people doesn't know how to wear a pair of high heeled shoes. I smiled and I told her that she would wear that shoes to protect her feet from pointed object and from dirt also. In exchange to my Christmas gift. She played her musical instrument called "SALUDOY", a guitar string put around on a bamboo.

That was the first time I saw and heard a nice instrument made from bamboo. They were the one invented the instrument. They said that this SALUDOY is very precious to them because they can earn money from it. I was amazed with them because they sang and danced too while playing the instrument.

These people were seen in town during Christmas season only. They will bring the whole family and celebrate Christmas here in the city with plenty of gifts from the people in town. They were supported with our very own City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. They were given a venue where they can stay and rest. The "LUGAW PARA SA MASA (known as congee)" was also served to them. When they have gathered enough with plenty of giveaways, the City Local Government provided them with helicopter or a dump truck to take them back to their residence.

It was a nice feeling to share your blessings especially to these people. They have nothing what we have in the City but I appreciate their camaraderie and the way they value their families.

Another good thing about Christmas in our city is we do not have any firecrackers. Mayor Rodrigo Duterte prohibits the Davaoeños to use any firecrackers to celebrate the Christmas, this is to avoid accidents. Actually, the City Ordinance is very effective since the Mayor imposed this to public. There was a decreased of reported accidents during Christmas. It's great! This idea is not for our Mayor's benefits but this is for the Davaoeños. Thank you, Mayor Duterte.

It's really nice to celebrate Christmas with happiness and peace.