The Manila Hotel Welcomes the Holidays with its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

The Manila Hotel ushered in the most festive time of the year with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, transforming its Grand Lobby into a radiant showcase of Filipino holiday traditions. This year’s theme, Pasko sa Nayon, captured the warmth and nostalgia of a traditional Filipino Christmas, drawing guests and members of the media to a heartwarming afternoon of festivity and holiday splendor.

The hotel’s magnificent Christmas Tree, adorned with handcrafted ornaments, stood as the centerpiece of the celebration. Designed by The Manila Hotel’s Social Director and Design Consultant, Rachy Cuna, the décor pays homage to Filipino craftsmanship through intricate accents such as woven baskets, horse figures, and large puso ornaments inspired by the traditional hanging rice wrapped in woven coconut leaves. Dressed in rich hues of red, gold, and green, the display radiates both grandeur and cultural pride, hallmarks of The Manila Hotel’s enduring elegance.

The lighting ceremony was graced by The Manila Hotel’s Board of Directors led by Chairman Basilio C. Yap, President Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., Executive Vice President Dr. Enrique Y. Yap, Jr., Director Atty. Salvador C. Medialdea, and Vice President for Sales and Marketing Marvin Kim Tan. Joining them were City of Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso, Vice Mayor Angela Lei “Chi” Atienza, Department of Tourism Assistant Regional Director Ivan Agote, Director of Tourism Standards, Regulations, and Human Capital Development Judy Dela Cruz Gabato, Atty. Joan Padilla, Administrator of Intramuros Administration, and DTCAM Officer-in-Charge Cristal Bagatsing. 

The joyous afternoon resonated with the familiar melodies of Christmas as the Office of the President Chorale filled the Grand Lobby with timeless carols, evoking a sense of nostalgia and shared joy that define the Filipino holiday spirit.

A Celebration of Compassion and Community

Beyond the glittering tree, the celebration reflected The Manila Hotel’s dedication to preserving Filipino culture and fostering a sense of togetherness.

“May our tree lighting ceremony remind us of what makes Christmas in the Philippines truly special—the comfort of Filipino food, the strength of community, and the joy of gathering with loves ones. It is a time to celebrate not only our traditions but also the meaningful connections that bring light to our lives,” shared Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.

In the spirit of giving, The Manila Hotel also extended its annual support to the House of Refuge, continuing its commitment to share hope and kindness with children in need.

Guests are invited to embrace the spirit of home and heritage this holiday season at The Manila Hotel, and to delight in its festive displays and offerings inspired by Filipino Christmas traditions.