The Ho Chi Minh Torch on Phu Quy Island was inaugurated on May 19, 1980—President Ho Chi Minh’s birthday—after just three months of construction, which began on February 19 of the same year.
The construction of the Ho Chi Minh Torch
After the liberation of the South, to honor the immense contributions of President Ho Chi Minh, the Politburo (4th tenure) launched an initiative to bring the “Ho Chi Minh Torch” to illuminate regions across the country. Phu Quy—an isolated frontline island about 54 nautical miles (100 km) from Phan Thiet—was chosen despite its rough seas and challenging voyages.
With deep respect and boundless gratitude toward the Father of the Nation, the soldiers and residents of Phu Quy organized a torch procession to the island, then mobilized manpower to carry construction materials up Mount Cam to build the torch monument. On February 19, 1980, construction began, and exactly three months later—on May 19, 1980, President Ho Chi Minh’s birthday—the monument was completed and officially inaugurated.
Over the next 30 years, harsh sea winds and extreme weather—especially on the summit of Mount Cam—caused severe deterioration. The island authorities called for contributions from officials, soldiers, residents, and benefactors. People from Phu Quy living across the country also donated funds and materials. More than 1.2 billion VND and over 8,000 working days were contributed to restore and upgrade the monument. By 2011, Phu Quy District held the inauguration ceremony for the fully renovated Ho Chi Minh Torch.
Symbolism and significance
Standing 19.5 meters tall, the torch commemorates May 19—President Ho Chi Minh’s birthday. The site is designed as a ceremonial square, featuring a white marble statue of President Ho Chi Minh sculpted by artisans from Da Nang’s Non Nuoc stone village.
The pathway from the foot of Mount Cam to the torch winds about one kilometer along the hillside, with sections paved in concrete and others built from stone steps.
For the islanders, the Ho Chi Minh Torch is a monument of profound spiritual and patriotic importance. It serves as the place where local officials and residents pay tribute to President Ho Chi Minh, report achievements, and hold ceremonies on national holidays or significant local events. The monument also inspires generations to unite in building a prosperous
