IN Marco Polo Plaza, the lighting up of the Tree of Hope signifies the beginning of the festive season. But more than that, this Christmas tradition also signifies the beginning of the season for giving.
The Tree of Hope was lit last Nov. 26, with the theme, “Timeless Traditions.”
The tree lighting ceremony opened with a performance from the Drum, Lyre, and Bugle Corps of Don Bosco alumni followed by a song from Celestial Voices.
Msgr. Roberto Alesna blessed the Tree of Hope and Marco Polo Plaza’s general manager Julie Najar welcomed everyone to the event and shared the milestones of the Tree of Hope.
Marco Polo Plaza and GMA Kapuso Foundation have been partners for seven years now.
More than 40,000 students were reached through the Unang Hakbang sa Kinabukasan project and a total of P944,181.57 was given through the Tree of Hope donations.
GMA 7 Cebu station manager Ann Marie Tan also thanked everyone who supported the Tree of Hope through the years.
The guests enjoyed the song number of GMA 7 artist Hannah Precillas and the performances from Cebu Center for Dance themed-12 days of Christmas.
Christmas spirit
The lighting of the Tree of Hope was headed by Najar, Marco Polo Plaza resident manager Xavier Masson, Msgr. Alesna, Tan and Amabelle Rusiana.
Once the tree was lighted, the guests were serenaded by Precillas and Mr. & Mrs. Claus also came to spread the Christmas spirit.
The kids present went home with goodies and they also had their souvenir photo with Mr. & Mrs. Claus taken.
Everyone is invited to come and be a part of the Christmas tradition.
Donate to the Tree of Hope for only P200 per Christmas ball from Nov. 26, 2016 to Jan. 5, 2017.
All proceeds will be given to the GMA Kapuso Foundation.
For more information, one may call (032) 253-1111 or visit www.marcopoloplazacebu.com.
For real time updates, like the Facebook page at facebook.com/marcopolocebu or follow on Twitter at @5StarInCebu.