Valenzuela City gov't holds 'Tree of Hope' lighting ceremony
By Hannah Nicol
The Valenzuela City local government held the “Tree of Hope” lighting ceremony at the Valenzuela City People’s Park, on Saturday, Sept. 30, to start the three-month-long celebration of the city's 400th Founding Anniversary.

According to the Valenzuela Public Information Office (PIO), the "Tree of Hope'' lighting ceremony is an annual tradition in the city, ushering in the Christmas spirit early for Valenzuelanos.
The lighting of the 50-foot tree, and other Christmas decorations became a tradition in the city since it was first held in 2004.
The tree-lighting event serves as one of the city's primary activities for its 400th founding anniversary which is celebrated every Nov. 12.

The city has prepared different activities including the inauguration of Polo Fiesta and the Casa de Polo, which are considered as the grand events for the founding anniversary.
Students from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela (PLV) and Valenzuela Polytechnic University, and children with disabilities joined the tree-lighting activity.
The city government said several events were lined up for the holidays, including an "Oktoberfest," Polo Fiesta activities, a Mass at San Diego de Alcala Church, Casa de Polo blessing and inauguration, Industry Summit, Gawad Dr. Pio Valenzuela Awarding, Cultural Night, Valenzuela's Coffee Table book launch, a visit from delegates of Bucheon, South Korea, a "Food Fiesta," and a Christmas bazaar.

Christmas songs were also performed by singer Mr. Jose Mari Chan and students from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Valenzuela during the tree-lighting event.
The city government said that in the days after the event, Christmas decorations installed at the Valenzuela City Family Park, WES Arena, Fatima Avenue, and Polo Family Park, will be illuminated.