Tree of Hope rises for Pasko sa Sugbo 2016

THE M. Lhuillier Tree of Hope, what is popularly known as the “giant Christmas tree,” will once again light up the Fuente Osmeña Rotunda with the ceremonial switch-on tomorrow, ushering in the festive “Pasko sa Sugbo.”

The ceremonial lighting of the Tree of Hope is at 6 p.m.

The M. Lhuillier Group, which mobilizes its resources for the construction, dress-up and lighting of the tree throughout the Christmas and Sinulog seasons yearly, continues the tradition this year.

The company’s participation in Pasko sa Sugbo is a major part of its corporate social responsibility program. It also symbolizes a lasting partnership between the M. Lhuillier Group and the people of Cebu.

The annual light-up ceremony will be headed by Cebu Ciy Mayor Tomas Osmeña, M. Lhuillier Group chairman and president Michel Jones Lhuillier and his wife Dr. Amparito Llamas-Lhuillier.

The tallest Christmas tree in the southern regions of the Philippines at 125 feet, the ML Tree of Hope is an icon of Christmas and the annual Fiesta Señor. It was first put up in the year 2000.

At the base of the tree and as its topper are images of the Sto. Niño, reminding merrymakers and the faithful of the true reason for the season.

With its 25,000 blinking lights, 500 star lanterns, a multitude of poinsettias and glittery diadems and other ornaments, the tree is huge in all respects. But, even larger than its physical size is the pervasive spirit of unity, charity, peace and joy that it engenders the moment it is lit.

After the lighting ceremony, the tree is ablaze with its multitude of lights from 6 p.m. until midnight through the Christmas season. It also lights up from 4-6 a.m. from December 16 to 24 when the Misa de Gallo is underway.

During the Sinulog celebration, the tree is also lit from 6 p.m. up to midnight.