'Parols' a major attraction in Seoul Lantern Festival

Philippine "parols" (Christmas lanterns) were a major attraction at the Seoul Lantern Festival in Korea, which opened last November 4, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said. Organized by the Seoul metropolitan government, the exhibit stretches about 1.3 kikometers, with the lanterns located between the bridges of Samilgyo and Supyogyo. Entrance to the festival is free. The Philippine booth is also conducting daily raffles. Several handmade lanterns from the Philippines currently on display, all made from Capiz shells, are arranged on a float. "Around three million are expected to visit the Festival until its closing on November 20, an increase from last year's attendance of 2.3 million," the DFA said on Sunday. Ambassador Luis Cruz said the Philippines' participation in the Festival, spearheaded by the Department of Tourism, "not only aims to highlight our unique lantern culture but also creates an invaluable opportunity to encourage Koreans and other foreigners to visit our country." "Their blinking lights, reminiscent of the ubiquitous parol in the Philippines during the Christmas season, add to the festive atmosphere," the DFA said. "Many people stop by the Philippine float to have their pictures taken - a situation that comes as no surprise. The Philippines and South Korea maintain excellent relations; that South Korea has been our top source of foreign tourists for five straight years is a clear indication of the rich ties between our peoples," he said. - VVP, GMA News