TACLOBAN CITY, Dec. 2 -- This year's giant Christmas tree in Carigara, Leyte stands out from previous displays as it features a 32-foot sundang (bolo), a symbol deeply rooted in the town's culture and craftsmanship.

The sundang - the manufacture of which is one of the town's major cottage industries - is the tree's main ornamental feature, drawing curiosity and admiration from residents and visitors alike.

"The sundang is iconic to Carigara... and it's ideal that this is represented in our Christmas display," Mayor Ed Ong Jr. said in an interview Tuesday.

The giant Christmas tree has already become an online sensation, with photos and videos posted on social media attracting crowds to the plaza, eager to see the unique ornamentation up...