On November 6, 2024, The Manila Hotel officially welcomed the holiday season with an eagerly anticipated Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. The Grand Dame sparkled with renewed grandeur, marking the beginning of the season in timeless style.
A Festive Celebration of Filipino Heritage
Each year, the hotel’s grand lobby transforms into the heart of Manila’s Christmas festivities, with a towering Christmas tree adorned in sparkling ornaments and twinkling lights taking center stage.
This year, guests are invited to a uniquely Filipino holiday celebration with the theme of Pasko Natin! – a heartfelt tribute to the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage infused with the warmth of the season.
This year’s elegant décor is the creation of The Manila Hotel’s Social Director and Design Consultant, Rachy Cuna, who has masterfully incorporated salakot, a traditional Filipino headgear, and native materials. This design showcases Filipino artistry, creating a memorable Filipino Christmas experience that honors tradition while embracing the season’s joy.
Distinguished Guests and a Heartwarming Ceremony
Distinguished guests, including The Manila Hotel chairman Basilio C. Yap and The Manila Hotel president Atty, graced the festivities. Jose D. Lina, Jr., The Manila Hotel director and executive vice president Dr. Enrique Y. Yap, Jr., The Manila Hotel vice president for sales and marketing Marvin Kim Tan, The Manila Bulletin publisher Herminio ‘Sonny’ Coloma, Ambassador of Israel Ilan Fluss, Minister of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines deputy representative Dustin Teng-Shi Yang, Bb. Pilipinas International 2024 Myrna Esguerra, and officers of the Philippine Association of Wedding Planners.
Representatives from event sponsor Esguerra Kurobuta also joined the festivities. Guests were treated to a selection of premium Kurobuta Berkshire products, specially prepared and presented in a truly spectacular fashion — by a grand waiters’ parade.
Adding to the celebration, the Office of the President Chorale, under the musical direction of Professor Ronald Y. Bello, an alumnus of the Philippine Madrigal Singers, serenaded guests with classic Christmas carols, filling the lobby with the melodies of the season.
“Our Christmas Tree becomes more than just a decoration each year—it becomes the heart of the city’s holiday gatherings,” said Atty. Joey D. Lina, Jr., President of The Manila Hotel.
“At The Manila Hotel, we are proud to make the holidays seamless for our guests, from our festive hampers to our grand lobby décor, creating a true home away from home for the season.”
A Day of Celebration and Community Spirit
The annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, a symbol of hope and peace, was further enriched by the performance of children from The House of Refuge Foundation, who performed song and dance numbers.
The foundation is a long-time partner of The Manila Hotel, dedicated to providing shelter and support for street children. This partnership reflects the hotel’s commitment to social responsibility and community engagement, playing a vital role in shaping brighter futures for these young individuals.
Beyond the visual splendor, the hotel’s Christmas decorations embody the rich heritage and timeless charm of The Manila Hotel, serving as a symbol of true Filipino hospitality. With its festive ambiance, The Manila Hotel remains a cherished holiday destination for Manileños and visitors alike.
About The Manila Hotel
The Manila Hotel is located beside kilometer zero (0), where the City of Manila begins, and is within walking distance from the Philippines’ known landmarks: Rizal Park, Intramuros, and National Museums. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel is the choice hotel for the most distinguished clientele.
Since 1912, The Manila Hotel has continuously provided the best services and amenities for a truly memorable experience.
It has more than 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms, including three (3) ballrooms. Apart from these, the hotel offers five-star relaxation and wellness experiences with the Manila Hotel Spa, adult and children’s pools, and the Manila Hotel Health Club.
The hotel is home to the Heritage Museum, a treasure trove of priceless memories that narrate its illustrious past. It also has an Art Gallery that offers a window into a contemporary world, captured through the objective point of view of different artists. It has six (6) dining outlets, each offering a unique culinary adventure:
- Café Ilang-Ilang, which is a favorite spot for its extensive selection of international buffet delights;
- Champagne Room, with its Old European style fine dining and also hailed as the most romantic room in Manila — it features European cuisine in a posh, fine-dining setting;
- Tap Room, an Old English pub-inspired outlet where one can enjoy an evening of live music;
- Lobby Lounge, which is ideal for casual dining, aperitif, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisure meetings;
- Red Jade is a fine-dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine;
- and Delicatessen offers the hotel’s signature pastries, bread, chocolates, and pralines.
