Tribute to a Cultural Icon & Christmas Man in Negros Island : Dr. Prospero 'Rico' P. Absin

 Mr. Penn T. Larena 

Vice President ,Dumaguete City Festival & Arts Society INC

In the heart of Dumaguete, a city known for its rich culture and traditions, one man's legacy shines as bright as the Christmas lights that adorned his iconic Christmas House. Dr. Prospero 'Rico' P. Absin, a remarkable anesthesiologist and a tireless advocate for culture and tourism, left an indelible mark on the city and the hearts of its people.

Born on June 19, 1945, to the esteemed Dr. Genovivo Absin, a pioneer City councilor, and the civic leader Doña Alicia Pañares, Rico Absin's journey in life was destined for greatness. He embarked on his educational path at St. Paul's College Dumaguete, which later transformed into St. Paul University Dumaguete, where he laid the foundation for his future endeavors. His thirst for knowledge led him to the prestigious University of Santo Tomas, where he earned his medical degree, setting the stage for a career dedicated to healing and serving his community.

However, it was not just Dr. Absin's medical prowess that made him a cultural icon in Dumaguete. He is best known for his creation of the renowned Christmas House in the city, a testament to his unwavering love for Christmas and his mother, Doña Alicia Pañares Absin, who instilled in him a child-like obsession with the holiday season. The Christmas House came to life in 1988, a year after his mother's passing, and it has since become a beacon of joy for both locals and visitors.

Every year, Dr. Absin's Christmas House would be adorned with hundreds of kilometers of Christmas lights, transforming the Spanish-styled ancestral home into a mesmerizing spectacle that illuminated the entire neighborhood. Countless visitors from across the country and the world flocked to experience the magic. It was more than just dazzling lights; it was an invitation to immerse oneself in the enchanting world of Christmas.

The Christmas House not only celebrated the holiday season but also showcased Dr. Absin's passion for collecting. His antique collection, including Lladro figurines, was displayed alongside an array of angels and cherubs, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and beauty that captivated all who entered.

In his professional life, Dr. Absin served as an anesthesiologist at the Silliman University Medical Center Foundation, Inc., demonstrating his commitment to the well-being of his patients. Later, he established El Pueblo Genovivo in Candau-ay, as a venue to serve big parties in the city and the annual christmas gala, a dinner/concert for a cause to help our local community.

Dr. Rico Absin's dedication extended beyond the medical field. He was an active member of the Board of Trustees at St. Paul University Dumaguete for two decades, showing his ongoing commitment to his alma mater. His involvement in the SPUD Alumni Association Inc. Dumaguete Chapter highlighted his deep connection with his roots.

During his student years, Dr. Absin was a part of the Paulinian Drama Club and Paulinian Glee Club, where his love for culture and the arts blossomed. He later played a pivotal role in the SPUD 100 Centennial Celebration as an Executive Committee member, contributing to the preservation of the institution's history.

His influence on the cultural landscape extended to tourism as well. Dr. Absin became the first Chairman of the Dumaguete City Tourism Council, guiding the city's efforts to attract visitors. He served as a member of the Board of Directors for the Dumaguete Arts & Cultural Society 1990 to 1995 and the Sandurot Foundation Inc., leaving an indelible mark on the development of the local arts and culture scene. He was a founding member of the Dumaguete City Festival & Arts Society Inc and served as a Board of Trustees member and Vice Chair of the Negros Oriental Tourism Council.

During his chairmanship in the Tourism Council, Dr. Absin organized several grand and star-studded festivals, including the Dumaguete Santacruzan Festival, Kabulakan Festival,World Tourism Month ,Sandurot and City Christmas Festival. His vision extended to the beautification of Rizal Boulevard, Quezon Park, and the City Hall, turning these places into picturesque landmarks.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Absin received the BELFRY TOURISM EXCELLENCE AWARD in 2014 for culture and heritage, an accolade bestowed by the City Government of Dumaguete. This honor was a testament to his unrelenting dedication to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Dumaguete.

While Dr. Rico Absin's accomplishments in the field of medicine and his cultural and tourism advocacy are noteworthy, it is his altruistic spirit that stands out. For over three decades, he organized a fundraising initiative to provide meals for street children in Dumaguete during Christmas. This noble cause, supported by Dr. Absin and his Friends of the Christmas House, exemplified his commitment to the well-being of the less fortunate.

In his final act of generosity, Dr. Absin ensured that 1,000 children in Dumaguete would have a special Christmas meal, a legacy of love and compassion that will forever warm the hearts of those who benefited.

Dr. Prospero 'Rico' P. Absin, a man of deep humility and boundless kindness, will forever be remembered as a cultural icon who brought joy, beauty, and hope to his beloved city of Dumaguete. His legacy lives on in the twinkling lights of the Christmas House, the cultural vibrancy of the city, and the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Thank you, Doc, for your unwavering dedication and the profound impact you made on Dumaguete. You are an inspiration to us all, and your memory will continue to light up our lives, just as your Christmas House illuminated our city.