UP Lantern Parade 2023 showcased giant lanterns that symbolize resilience and current issues

The UP Diliman campus lit up with captivating lanterns during the university's annual lantern parade. This marks the return of the event after a three-year hiatus.

As reported by Mark Salazar on "24 Oras,” Wednesday, the festive atmosphere of "Pistang Pasko" was palpable, with 70 lanterns participating in the parade.

This year's theme, "Panibagong Lakas," was brought to life through lanterns symbolizing resilience in the face of pandemic challenges and current societal issues.

As the parade encircled the academic oval, lanterns conveyed messages about Filipino workers, the jeepney phaseout, LGBTQIA+ rights, the West Philippine Sea issue, and the conflict in Gaza.

The annual celebration drew in nearby communities and visitors who transformed the event into a lively concert and talent festival. Each participating lantern showcased a performance, adding to the overall excitement of the parade.

Photos by Danny Pata

—CACM, GMA Integrated News