The 2023 Holiday Tree towering proud at 198 ft. // Kyng Felix Loayon, CIO Tagum
TAGUM CITY – Locals and tourists alike were in high-spirits as the city formally lit up the country’s tallest Holiday tree at the City Hall Square on November 24, 2023.
Standing at a majestic height of 198 feet—one foot taller than last year’s—this year’s Holiday Tree embraces the theme of “Christmas Tree Under the Sea.” This captivating design not only spreads festive cheer but also champions the cause of preserving our oceans and marine life.
It is adorned with 350 sea creature decorations, a total of 114,000 LED rice bulbs, 4,000 meters of LED rope light, and 3,000 meters of neon LED strip, with 15 light combinations. The four spirals in the tree symbolize progression and growth, while the white LED rice bulbs commemorate the city’s silver founding anniversary.
In its 25th year of Holiday Tree lighting, Mayor Rey T. Uy expressed his gratitude to the people of Tagum, stating, “All of these things nga nahitabo sa atong siyudad for the past 25 years, we owe that to all of you. Kay kaming mga city officials, from 1998 up to present, are always inspired to do things for the good of Tagum.”
Honorable City Mayor, Rey T. Uy, along with fellow city officials, witnessed the final countdown of the lighting of the 2023 Holiday Tree. // Vinz Bret Davo, CIO Tagum
During the lighting ceremony, Mayor Rey T. Uy, along with city councilors, city officials, and local government employees, joined the citizens of Tagum in high spirits. Bishop Medel Aseo blessed the Holiday Tree, and Tagumenyos’ love for music shone through an angelic choral performance by Tagumenyo children and a Rondalla Christmas Holiday Musical Rendition by local musicians.
Mayor Rey T. Uy led the gift-giving to this year’s beneficiaries, the Cancer Warriors from Davao Regional Medical Center.
The event was heightened by a surprise fireworks display. Adding to the festivity, food stalls from ambulant vendors and local restaurants lined up along the roads to Tagum City Hall. All of these preparations are part of the celebration for the Town and Parochial Fiesta in the city. Zenia M. Sanchez/CIO Tagum