Ly Thai To Park in Ho Chi Minh City: A Memorial to Resilience and Renewal
Ly Thai To Park in Ho Chi Minh City officially reopened on February 12, 2026, as a dedicated memorial to those lost during the COVID-19 pandemic. The park serves as a space for remembrance, reflection, and a symbol of the city’s resilience and commitment to a brighter future.
A Space for Remembrance and Reflection
Following over 90 days of renovation, the park at 1 Ly Thai To has been transformed into a “quiet space” for the community. The project, completed in time for the Lunar New Year, involved an investment of over VND263 billion and was directed by the city’s Party Committee and People’s Committee. The inauguration ceremony was attended by key city leaders, including Secretary of the HCMC Party Committee Tran Luu Quang, Standing Deputy Secretary Le Quoc Phong, Chairman of the HCMC People’s Committee Nguyen Van Duoc, and Chairman of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee in HCMC, Nguyen Phuoc Loc, along with representatives from various city agencies and organizations. Vietnamnet
Honoring the Fallen
During the opening ceremony, attendees observed a moment of silence and lit incense sticks to commemorate the thousands of citizens, officials, and soldiers who died during the COVID-19 pandemic. Chairman Nguyen Van Duoc emphasized that the sacrifices of those lost are a monument built not of stone, but of the gratitude held by millions of citizens. Vietnamnet
A Symbol of Resilience, Humanity, and Solidarity
Ly Thai To Park embodies three key messages: resilience, humanity, and solidarity. The park symbolizes the city’s determination to rebuild and create a sustainable, compassionate environment. Residents like Le Cam Le and Nguyen Phong Phu shared their emotional experiences and emphasized the importance of remembering the hardships endured during the pandemic and uniting to build a stronger, more prosperous Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnamnet
The Role of the Vietnam Fatherland Front
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ho Chi Minh City was the most severely affected area in Vietnam. The Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee of Ho Chi Minh City played a crucial role in uniting all segments of the population to prevent and control the spread of the virus. Through collaboration with socio-political organizations, volunteer teams, and individuals, the committee mobilized national solidarity and promoted adherence to Party guidelines and state policies. SGGP
Nguyen Phuoc Loc, Chairman of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, stated that the committee will continue to coordinate with religious organizations to hold commemorative activities and prayers for those who lost their lives during the pandemic at Ly Thai To Park. SGGP He was initially designated as Chairman in June 2025 and re-elected for the 2025–2030 term in November 2025. SGGP and SGGP
Looking Ahead
Ly Thai To Park stands as a testament to Ho Chi Minh City’s commitment to honoring the past while building a future based on unity, solidarity, and compassion. The park is intended to be a place where memory and the present intertwine, fostering gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose for the city’s residents.