A Season of Light: The Heritage Tree illuminates Villar City

A festive glow marked the beginning of the holidays in Villar City, where the lighting of a 50-year-old acacia tree has become more than a tradition.

- By ZINNIA OLINARES

The Villar family leads the annual lighting of Villar City's Heritage Tree.

The yearly celebration has evolved into a symbol of how large-scale estate development can nurture community life and elevate open spaces in a fast-growing district.

The annual Christmas tree lighting of Villar City's Heritage Tree drew crowds once again to the 3,500-hectare master-planned estate, as everyone gathered to witness the transformation of the decades-old acacia into a luminous holiday attraction. The ceremony was led by Villar Group Chairman Manny Villar, joined by Villar Land Inc. Chief Operating Officer Mary Lee S. Sadiasa, and Villar City Division Head Allan James Santos. Sen. Mark A. Villar, Atty. Emmeline Aglipay-Villar, and the Villar grandchildren—Emma, Tristan, and Cara—also took part in the celebration, showcasing the estate's emphasis on valuing multigenerational community-building.