[Pictures Here] Through the dedication of its ELJ Communication Center Bldg. and the ceremonial lighting of the whole ABS-CBN compound, the Kapamilya Network started its Christmas celebration with the theme “Ngayong Pasko, Magniningning ang Pilipino” which aims to once again kindle the light of unity and honor Filipinos’ commitment to change.
“Through the years your annual Christmas theme along with its special presentations and programs has warmed the hearts of millions Filipinos at home and abroad. More than just entertainment, it encapsulates the heart of our culture and the joy of being a Filipino,” said Pres. Aquino. “This coming Christmas will surely make Filipino families come together aligned with your theme.”
As a token of appreciation for gracing the special event, ABS-CBN Chairman and CEO Gabby Lopez and President and COO Charo Santos-Concio gave the president his own Kapamilya Parol, a personalized parol made by ABS-CBN Licencing serves as a symbol for the commitment to change and stand as a pledge for one’s individual share in bringing about change in his life, his family, and his nation.
Other than PNoy, Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim, Sec. Sonny Coloma, Sec. Ricky Carandang, Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista, QC Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte, and MTRCB Chairman Grace Poe-Llamanzares also graced the event.
The Lopez family came in full force to celebrate the 82nd birthday anniversary of ABS-CBN’s late founder Geny “Kapitan” Lopez which also coincided the same day.
Among the Kapamilya stars sighted during the event were Kris Aquino, Boy Abunda, KC Concepcion, Gretchen Barretto, Angel Aquino, Bianca Manalo, Empress, Lauren Young, Kelly Misa, Jessy Mendiola, Helga Krapf, Isabelle Abierra, and Nina Dolino.
Members of the entertainment press such as Ethel Ramos, Ricky Lo, Crispina Belen, Nestor Cuartero, Mario Hernando, Dindo Balares, Maricris Nicasio, Butch Roldan, Sandy Mariano, Karen Pagsolingan, Alan Diones, Ador Saluta, Rose Garcia, Emy Abuan at Ver Paulino were also present.
ABS-CBN also launched on the same day its much-awaited Christmas station ID titled “Ngayong Pasko, Magniningning ang Pilipino” as performed by Gary Valenciano and Toni Gonzaga with the world renowned University of Santo Tomas Singers. The song is part of the Christmas songs compilation album from Star Recording Inc. which are now available on record bars and available for online download via www.starrecords.ph.
Before the momentous occasion, a mass was first held in the ABS-CBN Chapel of the Inunciation presided by Most Reverend Honesto Ongtioco, Bishop of the Diocese of Cubao, followed by the awards proper of the annual Gawad Geny Lopez Jr. Bayaning Pilipino Awards.
All of these activities are part of ABS-CBN’s Christmas campaign for 2010. Other components to watch out for include the airing of the Kapamilya Simbang Gabi, Kapamilya Parol selling, launching of the viewers text promo and of course the higjly anticpated annual ABS-CBN Christmas special at the Araneta Coliseum.
