On November 6, 2024, The Manila Hotel officially welcomed the holiday season with its highly anticipated Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. The Grand Dame, as it is fondly called, dazzled with renewed splendor, signaling the start of the festive season in its signature timeless style.
A Festive Celebration of Filipino Heritage
Each year, The Manila Hotel’s grand lobby transforms into the epicenter of Manila’s Christmas festivities. At the heart of it stands a majestic Christmas tree, adorned with glittering ornaments and shimmering lights. This year’s theme, Pasko Natin!, celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, blending traditional Filipino artistry with the warmth of the holiday season.
Designed by The Manila Hotel’s Social Director and Design Consultant, Rachy Cuna, this year’s décor features the salakot, a traditional Filipino headgear, along with native materials. The result is a stunning fusion of tradition and modernity, offering guests a uniquely Filipino Christmas experience filled with nostalgia and joy.
Distinguished Guests and a Heartwarming Ceremony
The event was graced by notable personalities, including The Manila Hotel chairman Basilio C. Yap, president Atty. Jose D. Lina Jr., executive vice president Dr. Enrique Y. Yap, Jr., and vice president for sales and marketing Marvin Kim Tan. Joining them were Manila Bulletin publisher Herminio ‘Sonny’ Coloma, Ambassador of Israel Ilan Fluss, and Minister Dustin Teng-Shi Yang from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office.
Bb. Pilipinas International 2024 Myrna Esguerra and officers from the Philippine Association of Wedding Planners also attended, alongside representatives from event sponsor Esguerra Kurobuta, who treated guests to a culinary showcase featuring premium Kurobuta Berkshire products, presented in a grand waiter’s parade.
The Office of the President Chorale, led by Professor Ronald Y. Bello, an alumnus of the Philippine Madrigal Singers, filled the air with classic Christmas carols, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
A Tradition of Giving and Community Spirit
In his remarks, Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr. shared, “Our Christmas Tree becomes more than just a decoration each year—it becomes the heart of the city’s holiday gatherings. At The Manila Hotel, we take pride in offering a seamless holiday experience for our guests, from festive hampers to our iconic grand lobby décor, creating a true home away from home during the season.”
Adding a touch of heartwarming community spirit, children from The House of Refuge Foundation performed song and dance numbers. The foundation, which provides shelter and support for street children, is a long-time partner of The Manila Hotel. This partnership highlights the hotel’s commitment to social responsibility, fostering brighter futures for marginalized youth.
A Holiday Destination Like No Other
The Manila Hotel’s holiday décor extends beyond aesthetics, embodying the rich heritage and timeless charm that the hotel is known for. With its festive ambiance, The Manila Hotel continues to be a cherished holiday destination for Manileños and visitors alike, creating unforgettable memories and celebrating the spirit of Christmas in true Filipino fashion.
