The teardrop-shaped emblem stands at the center of the lake in the main square of Ly Thai To Park No. 1, Vuon Lai ward, former District 10. Its complete installation marks a crucial phase of completion, with the project set for inauguration on 12/2 (25th day of the 12th lunar month).

The emblem, shaped like a teardrop, stands approximately 6 m tall with a 13 m circumference, crafted from mirror-finish stainless steel alloy. Its hollow interior is designed so that natural light reveals a heart shape within the teardrop. The reflective surface mirrors the surrounding environment, creating a strong visual impact.

The teardrop-shaped emblem is installed in the center of the lake at Ly Thai To Park. *Minh Bang*.

A representative from the investor, Vung Tau Urban Investment and Development Company Limited, stated that the teardrop symbolizes the sorrow and loss from the pandemic, while the heart within represents compassion, love, and sharing among people. The emblem conveys the park's central humanitarian message.

Sculptor Pham Van Hang, who has contributed to numerous large monument projects, said he was involved in consulting on the design concept from the outset and considers the teardrop emblem a design with lasting significance.

Perspective view of the teardrop-shaped emblem in Ly Thai To Park. *Investor*.

Alongside the emblem, the remaining elements of Ly Thai To Park No. 1 are entering their final completion phase. The main entrance from the Ly Thai To - Hung Vuong intersection leads to a welcoming square spanning thousands of square meters, connecting to a teardrop-shaped fountain lake covering approximately 1.800 m2, designed with steps for visitors to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Thousands of lighting fixtures installed around the emblem ensure the area stands out at night. Adjoining spaces include greenery, grassy hills, lawns, gazebos, and outdoor activity areas.

Four old villas within the park grounds have been preserved and renovated to serve as a community house, public library, exhibition-museum space, restaurant, and other service facilities for residents and tourists.

The site at Ly Thai To No. 1 has been transformed into a park. *Graphic: Khanh Hoang*.

The 4,3 ha site at Ly Thai To No. 1, located at the intersection of Ly Thai To - Hung Vuong - Tran Binh Trong streets, faces Cong Hoa six-way intersection. It once housed 7 ancient villas owned by Chu Hoa's family. After 1975, the land was managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs but remained abandoned for many years and is now completing procedures for handover back to TP HCM.

TP HCM was the first locality to record a Covid-19 case in Vietnam (23/1/2020). In 2021, a severe outbreak led to a 5-month lockdown in the city, causing significant economic and human losses. According to data released at a memorial ceremony organized by the Ho Chi Minh City Fatherland Front, approximately 23.000 residents, officials, and soldiers in the area died from the pandemic.

Le Tuyet