The Manila Hotel Welcomes Christmas with its Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

by - November 11, 2026

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

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About The Manila Hotel

The Manila Hotel is located beside kilometer zero (0), where the City of Manila begins and is walking distance from the Philippines’ known landmarks: Rizal Park, Intramuros, and the National Museums. Defined by its history, elegance, and world-class service, The Manila Hotel maintains to be the choice hotel of the most distinguished clientele. Since 1912, The Manila Hotel continuously provides 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 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 which 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, a fine dining restaurant that serves authentic Chinese cuisine; and Delicatessen that offers the hotel's signature pastries, breads, chocolates, and pralines.

Hotel Contact:
Marvin Kim Tan, Vice President for Sales and Marketing, +63 998 951 1912, k.tan@themanilahotel.com 
One Rizal Park, 0913, Manila, Philippines
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