Giant Tree of Hope illuminates Fuente

• Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/local-news/2017/12/04/giant-tree-hope-illuminates-fuente-578091
• Sunday, December 3, 2017

(USC AB Communications Intern Vincent Clark Ermac/SunStar Philippines)

CEBU City’s iconic giant Christmas tree started illuminating Fuente Osmeña Circle after the ceremonial switch-on held by the City Government and the Lhuillier family on Friday, December 1.

Contractor Bernardino Adiong said the tree is made of 70 percent steel iron bars to make it sturdy when faced by strong winds and is 5 feet taller this year. The tree stands 125 feet in 2016.

The tree has hundreds of decorative ornaments like stars, lanterns, and the image of Señor Sto. Niño, the province’s patron saint.

Adiong, who has been designing the Tree of Hope for 17 years now, said the tree is worth P1 million and was constructed for more than two months.

He reminded the Cebuanos, who cannot afford to put their own decorations at home, to visit Fuente to feel the spirit of Christmas.

Señorito Michel Lhuillier said he feels lighter hoping that the tree could change lives for everyone.

He added that he really loves Cebu as the people are very welcoming to him and his family.

The lighting of the tree coincided with the opening of the month-long Pasko sa Sugbu 2017.

Cebu tourism officer Malou Inocando Tabar said that part of Cebu City’s tradition is having the longest Christmas celebration that lasts until Sinulog festival, which is held every third Sunday of January.

Tabar added that nightly activities, including food and merchandise stalls, will be held in Plaza Independencia.

The Christmas tree stays inside Fuente Circle, which is one of Cebu’s attractions during holiday season.