The Christmas Village of Love Cebu is more than a seasonal attraction—it’s a legacy of love and hope that continues to inspire the community. Started in 2010 by Clayton and Joji Tugonon, this festive display has evolved from a personal collection into a charitable tradition that supports pediatric cancer patients through the Kythe Foundation. What began as a hobby quickly grew into something that touches lives across Cebu.
The team behind the Christmas Village of Love Cebu grand opening with the child patients and their parents at Robinsons Galleria Cebu [CebuFinest File Photo]From Hobby to Hope: The Story of Cebu’s Christmas Village of Love
The Christmas Village of Love began with the Tugonon couple’s collection of Christmas village houses, originally meant for their own holiday enjoyment. But in 2010, a meeting with pediatric cancer patients at the Cebu Cancer Institute changed everything.
During the opening ceremony of the Christmas Villege of Love Cebu and turning over of donations to the beneficiary, Kythe Foundation. [CebuFinest File Photo]
Adrian Lee (top left), Chairman, and one of the stewards of the Christmas Village of Love Cebu on his welcome address; Annie Cel Yap (bottom left) played host for the grand opening; and the initiating priest, Fr. Felix, for the blessing of the venue. [CebuFinest File Photo]
The cutting of ribbon for the Christmas Village of Love Cebu grand opening [CebuFinest File Photo]Determined to help, the couple transformed their collection into a fundraising project. Each year, people “adopt” Christmas village houses, with proceeds going directly to children battling cancer. Over time, this simple act of giving became a beloved Cebu tradition.
Cebu’s Generosity in Action
The village’s journey has been fueled by the generosity of Cebuanos and supporters from all over. The display was first exhibited at Marco Polo Hotel and later found a new home at SM City Cebu, thanks to the support of Marissa Fernan and the SM Group. As more donors contributed their collections, the village expanded, and its impact on local children grew even more significant. By 2019, new stewards, led by Adrian Lee and Stanley Go, took over the project, ensuring its future as a charitable beacon.
A Permanent Home and a Growing Legacy
A glimpse of the Christmas houses at the Christmas Villege of Love Cebu [CebuFinest File Photo]
Not just Christmas houses. A catheral, a circus tent, a merry-go-round, a glass dome, a lighthouse, and more, all situated near the harbor. Everything is here at the Christmas Village of Love [CebuFinest File Photo]
The Christmas Village even has its own railway station with a moving train. [CebuFinest File Photo]In recent years, the Christmas Village found a permanent home at Robinsons Galleria Cebu, thanks to the generosity of Faraday Go. The initiative continues to grow, with support from organizations like The Kythe Foundation and new beneficiaries like the Cancer Warriors and The Freeman Foundation. This year, the village will open on October 23, 2024, to once again bring holiday cheer and hope to those in need.
The story of Cebu’s Christmas Village of Love reminds us of the power of community and the spirit of giving. Through the efforts of its stewards and supporters, this tradition continues to touch hearts and change lives, one Christmas house at a time.
A Christmas Tree and a Christmas Belen can be found inside the venue [CebuFinest File Photo]ALSO READ: How is it possible for Filipinos to celebrate the longest Christmas season in the world?
Keeping the Christmas Village of Love and its Spirit Alive in Cebu
As the Christmas Village of Love opens its doors this year, let’s remember the true meaning behind this festive display—bringing hope to those who need it most. By participating in this heartwarming tradition, we can all contribute to a brighter future for Cebu’s children.
The Christmas Village of Love Cebu has become a legacy of love, and it continues to thrive because of the generosity of people like you. Be a part of this growing legacy and make your holidays even more meaningful.
Join the Christmas Village of Love in Cebu this holiday season! Visit the display on the 2nd Floor of the Robinson Galleria Cebu, starting October 23, 2024. Help support pediatric cancer patients by adopting a Christmas house for ₱5,000 or sponsoring an entire village for ₱50,000. To participate, email info.mandauechamber@gmail.com, and together, we make a difference this holiday season!
