The Manila Hotel Welcomes Christmas with its Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

The Manila Hotel officially ushered in the Christmas season on November 4 with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, transforming its iconic Grand Lobby into a festive showcase of Filipino-inspired holiday artistry. Drawing inspiration from native elements and cherished traditions, this year’s celebration, themed “Pasko Natin,” pays tribute to what makes Christmas in the Philippines truly special: the warmth of family, the spirit of generosity, and the joy of togetherness.

At the heart of this year’s decorations are two distinctly Filipino elements, each carrying a meaning beyond its visual appeal. Vibrant red anahaw fans, locally known as pamaypay, bring the warmth and character of native craftsmanship into the hotel’s grand interiors. Meanwhile, golden cadena de amor garlands weave their way through the installations, symbolizing the connections that bind people together. Their intertwining blooms represent a love that begins with oneself, extends to the family, and reaches the wider community. The creative concept was brought to life by The Manila Hotel’s social director and design consultant, Mr. Rachy Cuna, and his team.

The highlight of the celebration was the ceremonial lighting of the hotel’s native Christmas tree, adorned in festive shades of red and gold. The Manila Hotel Chairman Basilio C. Yap and President Atty. Joey Lina, together with Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts of Manila (DTCAM) Director Cristal Bagatsing, and the winners and runners-up of Mr. and Ms. Chinatown Global Philippines 2026, led the ceremonial countdown, officially illuminating the Grand Lobby for the holiday season.

Distinguished guests in attendance included Department of Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay, Mr. Pedro Laranjeira of the Embassy of Timor-Leste, Mr. Moon Joonsik of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, and Mr. Andres Valdes of the U.S. Embassy.

The celebration featured messages from Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay and Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, who shared their holiday greetings and highlighted the importance of tourism to the country.

Music and festive flavors added to the afternoon’s celebration. The Office of the President Chorale performed a selection of beloved Christmas carols, while the hotel’s culinary team served Filipino seasonal favorites, including bibingka, puto bumbong, and Pinoy sorbetes, bringing familiar tastes of the Filipino Christmas to the occasion.

Beyond the festive decorations and celebrations, the spirit of giving remained an important part of the occasion. In keeping with its longstanding tradition of community support, The Manila Hotel extended assistance to House of Refuge, an organization that provides shelter, care, and essential support to children in need. This gesture reflects the deeper meaning of the season: that the joy of Christmas becomes even more meaningful when shared with others.

“The annual Christmas Tree Lighting is one of our most cherished traditions at The Manila Hotel,” said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing. “We want to bring the beauty of a Filipino Christmas into our hotel through native symbols that carry meaningful stories. More importantly, want to spread joy, love, and encourage togetherness which make this season special to every Filipino.”

For inquiries about The Manila Hotel’s holiday offerings, call  +632 85270011 or +632 53015500, email info@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph