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Astoria Palawan lit up its Christmas tree on Saturday, November 16, kickstarting the Christmas festivities in San Rafael by formally opening the gates to its Paskuhan village. The village is teeming with light displays, nightly performances, and food stalls for the public.
The opening ceremony for this year’s Paskuhan village included a special performance by elementary students of San Rafael. Astoria Palawan’s General Manager, Rex Benhur Caballes, stated that this year’s village is centered around the youth.
“Ang focus natin ay masiguro na yung mga kabataan natin, ay malibang sa magagandang decors ng Paskuhan sa Astoria.. at panatiliing masaya kapiling ang kanilang mga pamilya. Ang gusto natin ay maibalik ang dating sigla [ng turismo] para sa Puerto Princesa, katulad ng 2019. Madami na tayong napagdaanan, nagkaroon ng pandemic, nagkaroon ng bagyo, pero ngayon bumabawi na tayo,” Caballes said.
While those checked into Astoria Palawan could enjoy the nightly entertainment free of charge, walk-ins to the village were charged an entrance fee of P200, with P150 consumable within the grounds. Students, however, were encouraged to explore the beachfront displays for free from Monday to Thursday, provided they bring their student ID.
Caballes emphasized that Astoria Palawan is committed to instilling a sense of wonder and pride among the youth of San Rafael through its annual festivities. One of their advocacies is reflected in the Christmas tree’s decorations this year—colorful designs of seashells and starfishes, symbolizing the hotel’s connection to the coastal management and upkeep of Brgy. San Rafael.
The Paskuhan Village will be open nightly from November 17, 2024, to January 5, 2025, offering a new showcase of entertainment each evening. Special activities will be featured on Christmas Eve (December 24) and New Year’s Eve (December 31), making these nights extra festive and memorable for visitors.
Misa de Gallo will be held from December 15 to 23, with Astoria Palawan encouraging attendees to complete the nine-day early morning mass on its grounds, as well as the anticipated mass held at Aqua Cena.
Other highlights of the event include a Meet and Greet with Santa Claus, running from December 1 to 25. Paskuhan Village is open to the public from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.