A fire engulfed the 30-foot Christmas tree at Ninoy Aquino Freedom Park in Dumaguete City near midnight on Friday.
Fire Officer 1 Juvan Carcedo said the tree was already ablaze when responders arrived.
Civil Security Unit personnel attempted to extinguish the fire but failed.
Two fire trucks contained the blaze shortly after midnight, with no injuries reported.
The cause was undetermined as of posting time, but Carcedo assured the public that the park and capitol grounds remain safe.
The Christmas tree had its own circuit breaker. Damage cost was still being assessed. (PNA)