Manileños and commuters will have to adjust their expectations this Christmas season as the City of Manila will not put up its usual grand parol (Christmas lantern) displays.

Mayor Francisco ‘Isko’ Moreno Domagoso explained the decision, citing the high cost of the traditional decorations.

“Pasensiya na kayo, ha? Wala akong ilalagay na parol sa buong Maynila. Pagpasensiyahan n’yo na ako, eh kasi that would cost P14 million. Eh, ayaw ko namang makapamuhay nang marangya tapos magdadahilan ako sa inyo ng ‘nganga.’ Pero hindi ibig sabihin n’un walang parol, walang Pasko. Basta ang importante sa Pasko, nand’yan ang pamilya natin,” Mayor Isko said.

Despite the absence of extravagant parol displays, the Manila local government reportedly announced that a Christmas tree will still be lit at the City Hall grounds near the Kartilya ng Katipunan Shrine.