The Philippine Consulate is spearheading the annual Christmas celebration of the Filipino community in Hong Kong on Sunday, December 8, 2002, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Chater Garden in Central. The theme(s) are:

A holy Mass and ecumenical service in the morning will also form part of the program followed by a Christmas carols competition as well as a lantern and Christmas design parade, parlor games, and other entertainment numbers.

Filipino community associations and groups wishing to participate in the choral competition should have a minimum of 12 and a maximum of 30 members. A maximum of two Christmas songs (one Filipino / one English or Chinese) should be presented in not more than 8 minutes. Contestants must provide their own costumes and props. Participating groups will be judged on voice blending, showmanship, costume, audience impact, and originality.

Entries for the lantern contest must not be less than 1m x 1m and must be made from materials available in Hong Kong. Winning entries will be chosen on the bases of originality of design, conformity with the theme (Paskong Pilipino sa Hong Kong), and visual impact.

All kababayans and friends are invited to participate in this celebration. You are all encouraged to undertake activities or make contributions consistent with the theme of the Pasko celebration.

Entry forms and details can be obtained from Ms. Anjhie Aguilar (telephone no: 2823-8536) and the Bayanihan Trust. Forms for the choral competition may also be downloaded here and application forms for the lantern competition here.

Deadline for submission of entries is November 30, 2002.

Thank you for your cooperation.