As the Dinagyang and Ati-atihan seasons end today in the region, Negrenses and Ilonggos are looking forward to another festive occasion: what is commonly known as the Candelaria, or the Feast of the Candles, in Jaro, Iloilo City, the original home of many Negrenses who were lured long decades ago by the fertility and promise of the land across Guimaras Strait.

The Jaro fiesta is a grand homecoming for many Negrenses, many of whom have kept the vow of returning to their Jaro roots and pay homage to the Lady venerated especially during the Feb. 2 observance. The Candelaria runs parallel to Candlemas, a western commemoration. In our global calendar of events this week, we have these items as well as other major activities and festivals, including the Japanese Setsubun and the Islamic Ashura. We thank our reader, who shared with us some of the photos taken in Panmunjon in Korea. The pictures give us an occasion to have a first-hand view of the historic Demilitarized Zone in the Korean Peninsula, which has been a peace-and-tension icon in the world.

On the local front, we take you to Mabinay, the southern border town of Oriental Negros, which launched its Langub Festival, a celebration that pays tribute to the scores of caves found in the upland community. The Thursday festival in Mabinay has expanded the cultural horizons of Negrenses, this time, also focusing on the need to safeguard our natural attractions.

As we were beating the StarLife deadline, we got a forwarded email from a mission partner of Gracia Burnham, who was held captive by the Abu Sayyaf six years ago. Her letter showed her reaction to the reported death of her captor, Abu Sulaiman.

On the lighter side, we also focus on the talent search started in a high school in the city, giving teenagers an opportunity to widen the dimensions of their talent and, eventually enhance their indvidual growth. Culture buffs are looking forward to the National Arts Month starting next week and among the takeoff activities is Kuatro Kantos, a package of four plays spread throughout the four-week calendar until Feb. 24 in Bacolod City. The year has just begun, the celebrations season has started to go on full swing once more. Whatever your type of commemoration is, StarLife celebrates with you.