The Fuente Osmeña circle is one of the most familiar landmarks in the Queen City of the South. The landmark was named after the patriarch of the local political family, the late President Sergio Osmeña. It features a fountain that was built when the water system of the city was inaugurated. While the focal point of the landmark is the fountain, every Christmas season the Fuente Osmeña circle plays host to an important symbol of the season, a Christmas tree.
Christmas Tree – image source: twitter.com
The Christmas tree at the Fuente Osmeña circle was first set up in 2000 by the M. Lhuillier Group of Companies, It symbolizes peace, hope, unity and charity. It also shows the partnership between the city and the company, which is owned by the Lhuillier family. The tree also demonstrates that M. Lhuillier Group of Companies is Cebuano.
Christmas Tree – image source: twitter.com
Christmas Tree – image source: twitter.com
Christmas Tree – image source: specials.sunstar.com.ph
The Christmas tree is called the MLhuillier Tree of Hope and is the tallest in the Queen City of the South. The building and decoration of the tree is a gift of the company to the community where the company has grown over the years. Standing at 125 feet, the tree acts as the centerpiece of the Pasko sa Sugbo celebration every year.
Christmas Tree – image source: flickr.com
The MLhuillier Tree of Hope will continue to stand until the Sinulog celebration on the third Sunday of January. The tree itself is adorned with images of the Señor Sto. Niño at its base. It is also decorated with poinsettias, diadems, and star lanterns. At least 25,000 blinking lights makes the MLhuillier Tree of Hope even more appealing to the eye at night.
Christmas Tree – image source: cebucity.gov.ph
Aside from the Christmas tree, the Fuente Osmeña circle has also become a venue for the Pasko sa Sugbo activities that will continue through the Sinulog celebration. Have you checked out the MLhuillier Tree of Hope already? Tell us about it on the comments section below.
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