To welcome the holidays with hope, faith and optimism in true Filipino tradition, the Philippine Consulate on Fifth Avenue launched yesterday the "STARS OF HOPE ON FIFTH," a dazzling Christmas window display. Conceptualized by Filipino-American designer BRIAN TENORIO, the project features Philippine capiz-shell lanterns (parols), the iconic symbol of a Filipino Christmas. The "parol" represents the star of Bethlehem, and is hung to welcome visitors into every home. Capiz is the outer shell of the marine mollusk, Placuna placenta, found in the shallow coastal waters of the Philippines. The flat, translucent shell is used for a variety of decorative items. The Philippine Center, located at 556 Fifth Avenue between 45th and 46th Streets, is adorned with lanterns owned by the Center, as well as colorful pieces loaned by members of the Filipino community. The pretty holiday lanterns will be lit every evening until January 8.