The origins of the Pahiyas Festival date back to the Spanish colonial era when farmers brought their harvests to the church to be blessed by the local parish priest. This practice, which began as a way to give thanks for agricultural abundance, gradually transformed into a full-fledged festival. The word "Pahiyas" is derived from the term "payas," which means to decorate. Over the years, the festival has evolved, with townspeople decorating their homes in elaborate displays made from fresh produce, colorful rice wafers known as kiping, and various indigenous materials. These vibrant and intricate decorations reflect the creativity and resourcefulness of the people of Lucban.
During the modern-day Pahiyas Festival, the town of Lucban transforms into an outdoor art gallery. Homes and businesses compete to create the most spectacular displays, using kiping molded into delicate leaf shapes, as well as fruits, vegetables, and rice. The decorations are not just visual treats but symbolic representations of the town's gratitude for a successful harvest. Streets come alive with lively processions, street performances, and music. At the heart of the celebration is the procession of the image of San Isidro Labrador, which passes through the decorated streets, blessing the harvest and the community. Alongside the stunning displays, visitors indulge in local delicacies like longganisang Lucban and pancit habhab, further enriching the cultural experience.
This year, M Lhuillier Financial Services again proudly joined the festivities, further cementing its role as an active participant in the community. Their involvement in the Pahiyas Festival reflects a commitment to celebrating and preserving the Filipino cultural heritage. As one of the country's leading financial service providers, M Lhuillier used this opportunity to engage with the local community, aligning their brand with the values of resilience, creativity, and collaboration. Through their participation, the company strengthens its connection to the communities it serves, bridging the gap between the corporate world and grassroots culture.
M Lhuillier's participation in the Pahiyas Festival is part of their broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The company has long been committed to uplifting Filipino communities through its ML Cares Foundation. Their CSR activities span various sectors, including education, environmental sustainability, and community development. For instance, M Lhuillier actively participates in Brigada Eskwela, an annual program aimed at preparing schools for the academic year. The company has donated sanitation facilities such as handwashing stations, school supplies, and computers to schools across the country. These efforts ensure that students have access to a clean and healthy learning environment, even in underserved areas.
In addition to educational initiatives, M Lhuillier likewise focuses on providing livelihood opportunities. The company has spearheaded training programs aimed at equipping communities with practical skills. Such initiatives not only empower individuals to create their own sources of income but also strengthen the local economy.
Environmental sustainability is another pillar of M Lhuillier’s CSR efforts. They have implemented waste management initiatives, such as the Trash Bin Project at Ayusan Elementary School, which encourages proper waste disposal and cleanliness in schools. The company has also supported tree-planting programs to promote environmental consciousness in local communities. These projects aim to create sustainable and healthy environments for future generations.
In all these initiatives, M Lhuillier demonstrates its commitment to serving as a bridge between its financial services and the communities it operates in. Their involvement in events like the Pahiyas Festival, coupled with their far-reaching CSR programs, highlights the company’s dedication to promoting Filipino culture, community development, and sustainability. M Lhuillier is not just a financial service provider—it is an active and engaged partner in the development and empowerment of the Filipino people. Through their continued efforts, they help foster a brighter, more resilient future for communities across the Philippines.
http://mlcares.mlhuillier.com/
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