Fuente O tree cheers city folks

Setting up the 120-foot  Christmas tree in the middle of the Fuente Osmeña circle has become a tradition that Cebuanos  look forward to in the 16 years that the Pasko sa Sugbo has been celebrated  in Cebu City.

The ritual of lighting up the giant tree, sponsored by the M. Lhuilier pawnshop chain, takes place every Dec. 1.

A fireworks  display  capped the kickoff  and opened a series of  nightly cultural shows at the park.

At Thursday’s  ceremonial switch-on,  35-year-old Marivic Lucero was there with her children. She said they’ve  have been attending this event for years.

“It’s entertaining and it  makes city residents happy. The children receive lots of donated gifts and we can eat well,” she said.

Matt Rojo, his wife, mother-in-law and children were among the crowd at Fuente Osmeña.

As they do every year, they found time  to eat together near the Christmas tree.

“Lahi ra gyud kon naa ka dire kaysa magstay ka sa balay, mas lingaw unya malipay ang mga bata (It’s a different experience to be here rather than staying at home.  It  makes the kids happy),” he said.

On  stage in Fuente Osmeña,  local performers from the city’s colleges and universities will entertain the public in free shows every night until Dec. 30. There is also a night for senior citizens. STC Intern Tweeny Malinao