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.

The Manila Hotel President, Atty. Joey Lina

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.

The Office of the President Chorale

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.

Children from the House of Refuge

“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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A Super Magical Christmas Begins at SM Malls in the East Metro

This year, celebrate a Super Magical Christmas at your most loved SM Mall in the East Metro!

SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo are set to welcome the Christmas season this October with the unveiling of their new holiday centerpieces, bringing three festive worlds to life for families and friends to explore.

Part of this year’s Super Magical Christmas at SM, each mall will feature its own Christmas theme, complete with lovable characters and festive displays, along with exciting activities and heartwarming initiatives that make the season more meaningful for everyone.

At SM City Marikina, Holiday Twinklewoods welcomes mallgoers to a whimsical woodland filled with glowing Christmas trees, storybook-style mushrooms, and enchanting forest details. Leading the way is Mika, the official character of the mall, ready to take everyone on a delightful adventure.

At SM City Masinag, Macy’s Holiday Candyland brings sweet dreams to life with candy-inspired decorations, pastel-colored Christmas trees and ornaments, and giant lollipops. Led by Macy, this colorful wonderland is a picture-perfect spot for families and friends to enjoy the most wonderful time of the year.

Meanwhile, SM City San Mateo invites everyone to Matt’s Christmas Camp, an outdoor-inspired setting featuring a festive tree, a cozy campfire, and cheerful companions. With Matt leading the way, families and friends can look forward to a fun-filled adventure.

Adding to the Christmas cheer, Santa Claus will make special appearances at the malls on select dates, giving kids and families more opportunities to share in the holiday excitement. The malls will also showcase the newest Besties of Joy, spreading the spirit of giving by sharing joy with children in need this Christmas.

Catch Santa Claus at your most-loved mall and have your photos taken with him and the entire family!

Be among the first to explore these exciting new Christmas destinations and discover the festive displays, activities, and maxed-out experiences waiting for you at SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, and SM City San Mateo this October.

Meet Maki, Matty, Sera, and Sasha, the adorable new Besties of Joy collectibles this 2026.

This season, make time for the people who matter most and create more memories together at your most loved malls. Whether it’s taking photos with the festive displays, meeting Santa Claus, or simply sharing special moments with family and friends, SM has something to make every visit more meaningful, with experiences made all for you.

Gather your loved ones, plan your next gala, and get ready to Gala To The Max as SM brings more joy, wonder, and togetherness to the season. Make every moment count with a Super Magical Christmas at SM!

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The Manila Hotel welcomes the Holiday Season with 30% Off Christmas Hampers

Christmas at The Manila Hotel comes with traditions of its own, and this year, the Grand Dame of the Philippines adds to the season with a selection of Christmas hampers filled with festive treats and keepsakes to bring home.

Available in two selections, the hampers bring together holiday favorites such as Fruit Cake, Santa Chocolate, and a bottle of red wine, alongside The Manila Hotel keepsakes and Willy the Bear collectibles. They make an easy choice for sharing at home, bringing to a holiday gathering, or sending to family, friends, and colleagues.

“Gift-giving is one of the things that makes the Christmas season special. With our Christmas hampers, we wanted to bring together some of the familiar flavors and keepsakes associated with The Manila Hotel. From the treats on the table to the little things we keep year after year, Christmas is very much about sharing. We hope these hampers become part of the meaningful moments that make the season special,” says Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.

From October 10 to November 20, 2026, guests can enjoy the Early Bird Offer of 30% off on the Christmas hampers.

The Deluxe hamper, priced at Php 3,211.60 nett, from the regular price of Php 4,588, comes with Fruit Cake, Fruit & Nut Chocolate Bar, Santa Chocolate, Banana Thins, a bottle of red wine, The Manila Hotel fan, and a mini Willy the Bear Paper Mâché.

The Premium hamper, priced at Php 5,311.60 nett, from the regular price of Php 7,588, offers a little more to unwrap, with Fruit Cake, Fruit & Nut Chocolate Bar, Santa Chocolate, Banana Thins, a bottle of red wine, The Manila Hotel fan, Regular Prestige Card, Willy the Bear Santa Stuffed Toy, and a Capiz Star Ornament.

With a mix of treats to share and keepsakes to enjoy beyond the holidays, the Christmas hampers bring a little of The Manila Hotel into the season of giving.

For orders and inquiries, guests may call +632 8527 0011 or +632 5301 5500 local 1125, email restaurantrsvn@themanilahotel.com, or visit www.manila-hotel.com.ph.

Orders may be picked up from November 20, 2026 to January 3, 2027. Terms and conditions apply. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-269349 Series of 2026.

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Share Holiday Magic with Family and Friends as the First Snowfall Arrives at “A Disney Christmas” in Hong Kong Disneyland

Turn one festive day into two with a second park day for just HK$100

It's almost that magical time of year when families and friends come together to celebrate the holiday season and create treasured memories. From November 20, 2026 to January 3, 2027, "A Disney Christmas" returns to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, where Christmas shines in a way unlike anywhere else. Alongside beloved holiday traditions with Disney friends, guests can step into the immersive World of Frozen and journey to the whimsical kingdom of Arendelle, where Anna, Elsa and Olaf welcome them to a heartwarming winter celebration amidst dazzling holiday decorations and magical snowfall, all in true Arendellian style.

This season, guests can look forward to enchanting new surprises while reliving cherished Disney Christmas traditions. To maximize the holiday magic, guests can enjoy the "Non-stop 2-Day Fun Ticket" offer through December 31, 2026. By adding just HK$100 to a regular 1-Day Ticket, guests can extend the festive celebration into a second day and create even more magical holiday memories together.

Join Olaf for Festive Cheer at World of Frozen

A festive spirit sweeps across the kingdom of Arendelle as Anna and Elsa welcome guests for a heartwarming winter celebration.

Adorned with Arendellian-inspired holiday decorations, World of Frozen is transformed into a sparkling winter wonderland where magical snowfall and festive melodies create the perfect holiday setting around every corner.

No one is more excited for the holiday season than Olaf, Arendelle’s beloved snowman ambassador. Guests will be charmed by Olaf’s signature walk, boundless curiosity, and cheerful smile, as he chats and interacts with visitors of all ages, inviting everyone to enjoy the festive magic in World of Frozen. Along the way, guests may discover Kristoff preparing a Sven-tastic Surprise for his reindeer companion and encounter Anna and Elsa in their winter attire, spreading Arendellian holiday cheer and bringing an extra touch of winter magic to the kingdom with magical snowfall.

New this year is the all-new festive winter market that invites guests to immerse themselves in the kingdom's cherished winter traditions. Filled with handcrafted treasures, festive treats to delightful surprises, this charming gathering place captures the warmth and spirits of Arendelle.

Even after Christmas, the enchantment continues as Olaf brings in Arendelle’s very first Winterfest from January 5, 2027. Featuring an all-new Olaf encounter through a one-of-a-kind storytelling experience, the celebration fills World of Frozen with heartwarming tales, uplifting music, and charming new surprises for old and new friends.

Join Disney Friends for Heartwarming Festivities

Wherever guests go, beloved Disney friends are there to share the joy of the season. Dressed in their festive finest, Mickey and Friends, Woody, Buzz and Jessie, Winnie the Pooh and friends, and many more are ready to greet guests with warm holiday wishes throughout every corner of the park.

An all-new daytime castle stage moment makes its debut this Christmas, bringing guests together with Mickey and Minnie for a special Christmas party in front of the Castle of Magical Dreams, complete with festive music, laughter and even a playful surprise from Stitch. Led by Santa Goofy, the fan-favorite holiday tradition “A Holiday Wish-Come-True” Tree Lighting Ceremony returns, illuminating the night with music, lights and holiday wishes, before glorious snowfall and twinkling drone effects paint the sky.

The beloved “Disney Christmas Live in Concert!” will once again fill the resort with holiday magic across two weekends on November 21-22, 2026 and December 5-6, 2026. As Disney friends, live musicians and stunning castle projections bring cherished Disney classics and festive melodies to life.

Welcome 2027 in unforgettable Disney style with Mickey and Friends at the one-of-a-kind “New Year’s Eve Countdown” in front of the Castle of Magical Dreams. Make every holiday moment count with Disney Premier Access, including priority admission to designated attractions and entry to the designated viewing areas for “Momentous” and the New Year’s Eve Countdown!

Starting September 28, 2026, guests can reserve their spot for both “Disney Christmas Live in Concert!” and the “New Year's Eve Countdown” celebration, unlocking the first chapter in a holiday season filled with wonder, cherished traditions and magical moments waiting to unfold.

As the only Disney destination set between majestic mountains and the sea, the resort's breathtaking natural surroundings blend seamlessly with Disney magic to create a truly unique festive celebration. Start planning your family holiday getaway today and make the most of the season with the “Non-stop 2-Day Fun Ticket” festive offer and turn your visit into a magical holiday escape with “2 Nights Plus Special: 30% Off” at one of the resort hotels:

Limited Time Offers:

• Non-stop 2-Day Fun Ticket - Enter the park two days in a row by adding just HK$100 to the price of a regular 1-day ticket.
• 2 Nights Plus Special: 30% Off - Enjoy 30% off Flexible Rate when you book two or more consecutive nights at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort Hotels.

Christmas and New Year’s Eve Countdown Events: (Starting from September 28, 2026)

• Disney Premier Access - “Momentous”, 8 Attractions and 2 Shows (New Year's Eve Edition)
• One-time entry to "Momentous Nighttime" Spectacular designated viewing area
• One-time entry to "New Year's Eve Countdown" designated viewing area
• One-time priority admission to all 8 selected attractions
• One-time priority admission to the designated Theater Show "Mickey and the Wondrous Book" at selected showtime
• One-time entry to Castle Stage Show designated viewing area
• Seating Area Pass Packages - "Disney Christmas Live in Concert"
• Access to the designated zone of the reserved seating area for "Disney Christmas Live in Concert!" on the selected date
• Opt for VIP Packages to enjoy festive treats before the show

Park Dining (Starting from September 28, 2026)

Explorer's Christmas Dinner Buffet at Explorer's Club Restaurant and Admission to "Momentous" Nighttime Spectacular Designed Viewing Area Package

• Guests who purchase this package can enjoy Nighttime Spectacular castle show in designated viewing area as well as the Explorer’s Christmas Dinner Buffet at Explorer’s Club Restaurant.

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A Front-Row Seat to Broadway, Games, and Holiday Joy

Being invited to such an intimate concert already felt special, but getting a front-row seat made the night even more memorable. U Hotel’s El Mundo Café, usually known as a lively and busy restaurant, transformed into a relaxed and cozy performance space. It became a chill setting where music and storytelling took center stage, allowing everyone to truly appreciate the art up close.

The night opened beautifully with guest front act Hannah Bulos singing “Give Love on Christmas Day” popularized by The Jackson 5 in 1970. Her sweet, childlike voice instantly set the mood and gently pulled the audience in. Before long, people were singing along, turning the opening into a shared and heartfelt Christmas moment.

 

What made the concert even more enjoyable was how interactive it was. Games were woven into the program, giving Anya and Cara the chance to connect directly with the audience. Guessing which song they would perform next added excitement and laughter, making the night feel personal and playful rather than formal.

 

Cara and Anya Gutierrez

Despite some technical difficulties during the first act, the performances themselves stood strong. Anya opened Act 1 with “Popular” from Wicked, delivering a lively and confident performance that highlighted her natural charm and comedic timing. Cara followed with “Journey to the Past” from Anastasia, where her clear vocals and emotional delivery captured the longing and hope of the song. She continued to impress with the 1939 hit from the movie, Wizard of Oz, “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” offering a gentle and heartfelt version that felt intimate and sincere. Anya then surprised the audience with a more serious turn in “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” from Jesus Christ Superstar, proving her ability to shift from playful to deeply emotional with ease.

The technical issues from the first act were fully redeemed in the second act, where the sound system was restored and the performances truly shined. Cara delivered a touching rendition of “Pasko Na Sinta Ko,” the only Tagalog song of the night, which resonated deeply and brought a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the room. The sisters then came together for “For Good” from Wicked, a duet that highlighted their strong harmony and emotional connection. Their chemistry continued in “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “All I Want for Christmas,” where they balanced softness, power, and joy, ending the concert on a festive and uplifting note.

Throughout the night, Anya and Cara clearly showed both vocal and character versatility. Anya’s cheerfulness and expressive energy were perfect for playful and upbeat songs, while Cara’s composed and serious presence brought depth to ballads. Together, they blended these strengths seamlessly, proving they can shine both individually and as a duo.

One of the biggest surprises of the evening was a special performance by Cara with director Jojo Urquico. Their duet of “Sun and Moon” from Miss Saigon delighted the audience and felt like a meaningful tribute to musical theater, leaving a lasting impression.

Overall, the concert was heartfelt, fun, and inspiring. It showcased not just strong vocals, but growth, versatility, and genuine passion. I left the venue excited and hopeful for what lies ahead for Anya and Cara, knowing that this night was only a glimpse of greater things to come.

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Easy Holiday Feasts from SM Malls in the East Metro

The holidays are a time to celebrate traditions, togetherness, and good food—whether lovingly prepared at home or thoughtfully picked up for sharing. For families who want a little extra ease this season, SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown offer a wide selection of ready-to-take-home holiday favorites that make Noche Buena and Media Noche just as special. From comforting classics to party-ready trays, these mall dining staples let you focus on what truly matters: enjoying the moment with family and friends.

For Noche Buena, familiar flavors set the tone for meaningful gatherings. Café Mary Grace offers hearty pastas, savory mains, and signature cakes perfect for sharing, while Classic Savory brings its Chinese-style dishes that generations have enjoyed. Max’s Restaurant completes the spread with its iconic fried chicken, pancit, and Filipino favorites—easy to order, easy to serve, and always welcome on the table. For bigger family celebrations, Pizza Hut makes sharing simple with pizzas, chicken, and group meals, while Buffalo Wings n’ Things adds bold-flavored chicken wings and saucy platters, and Stuff’d brings a fun, modern twist with burritos, quesadillas, and wraps.

Cafe Mary Grace's all-time favorite Mango Bene Cake is available at SM City Masinag and San Mateo

Classic snack platter great for sharing with family over Noche Buena and Media Noche, available at Classic Savory SM City Masinag, Marikina and San Mateo

Fried to perfection for every Filipino. Include this classic Max's Fried Chicken in your holiday spread; available at SM City Marikina and Masinag

Ultimate Cheesy 8 from Pizza Hut SM City San Mateo and SM City Marikina

Christmas snacking is a thing, too! Chicken fingers and wings combined with Chili N' Cheese Nachos is great option for sharing. Grab these from Buffalo Wings N' Things SM City Marikina and San Mateo

Daily Bowls and Burritos for your fresh food craving for the holidays. Order them at Stuff'd at SM City Marikina

For Media Noche, welcome the New Year with dishes meant for sharing and abundance. Hap Chan makes it easy to bring home Chinese favorites perfect for a prosperous celebration, while Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken adds flame-grilled, bold flavors that elevate the spread. Bacolod Chicken Inasal brings smoky, grilled Ilonggo cuisine goodness that pairs well with any holiday feast. End the night on a sweet note with classic cakes from Conti’s and breads and pastries from The French Baker—ideal for serving, gifting, or enjoying as the clock strikes midnight.

Pancit is a staple in any Pinoy celebration, especially during Media Noche. Order this sumptuous plate from Hap Chan at SM Center Antipolo Downtown.

Flavorful spread from Peri Peri Charcoal Chicken at SM City Marikina

Your Ilonggo Favorites -- Inasal, Kansi, Pancit Efuven and other Pinoy viands all in one place, available at Bacolod Chicken Inasal in SM Center Antipolo Downtown and SM City Marikina

Ube Custard cake is a best-selling classic. Get the whole cake from Conti's Bakeshop in SM City Masinag

Classic fruitcake from The French Baker in SM City Marikina and SM City San Mateo

With everything in one place, SM Malls in the East Metro make holiday planning simple and enjoyable. Whether adding to home-cooked dishes or bringing home a full spread, these dining options help make celebrations smoother and more memorable. Drop by SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, or SM Center Antipolo Downtown and pick your favorite holiday eats. Celebrate the season with good food made easy—so you can focus on traditions, laughter, and togetherness.

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Turn your holiday spending into big wins with GCash when you Shake It, Win It

The holidays are the ultimate season of giving, but for many of us, it also means juggling a long list of expenses that come from preparing for Noche Buena, buying gifts, and traveling with friends or family. With Christmas just around the corner, GCash is here to sprinkle a little extra fun on your everyday spending with its Shake It, Win It raffle.

This Merry GCash season, every time you use GCash to pay, you get chances to win prizes every single day! Whether you’re checking out your cart online, wandering through Christmas bazaars, or catching up over dinner, paying with GCash automatically earns you entries to the raffle giveaway. It’s an easy way to get rewarded for all your little moments of heartfelt generosity, and paying will always be fast and seamless with GCash.

From November 10, 2025, to December 26, 2025, users have the chance to win GCash credits ranging from PHP 5,000 all the way up to PHP 1 million with every shake, with more surprise credits popping up when just opening the app. And it doesn’t stop there! Whenever you pay with GCash Tap to Pay, you unlock special entries toward the season’s ultimate reward — a brand-new hybrid BYD Seal 5 DM-i Dynamic. It’s the biggest giveaway of the season yet, turning everyday payments into extraordinary wins.

Everyone’s invited to Shake It, Win It, and here’s how:

 

 

1. Open your GCash app and click on your Merry GCash banner at the top.
2. Click Shake It, Win It.
3. Agree to the terms and conditions to proceed – this will only pop up once.
4. Shake your device! The more entries you have, the more chances to shake.
5. Check your prize. After shaking your device, you’ll see what prize you have won for the day.

Make this holiday season feel a little lighter – and a lot more rewarding – with GCash.

Download the app today and turn every payment, purchase, and shake into a chance to win big! Follow @gcashofficial to stay updated on all things Merry GCash.

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Snowflakes and Christmas Carols Bring Cheer at SM Malls in the East Metro

The spirit of Christmas filled the air as SM Supermalls in the East Metro turned everyday mall moments into heartwarming holiday memories through two delightful seasonal highlights—the Holiday Snowflakes Surprises and World Chorale Day celebrations.

Holiday carols by the New Anthem Chorale set the mood as golden snowflakes turned smiles into surprises at SM City Marikina.

Nothing says Christmas surprise quite like a flurry of snow—especially when it comes with treats. During the Holiday Snowflakes Surprises, shoppers enjoyed a joyful confetti blast as “snowflakes” filled the air, drawing smiles, laughter, and cheers from the crowd.

Hidden among the confetti were golden snowflakes with special treats for lucky finders, turning an ordinary shopping day into a festive adventure for kids and kids-at-heart. The SM Holi Squad amped up the excitement with cheers, photo moments, and infectious holiday energy from start to finish.

Confetti as snowflakes is always a charmer to young shoppers at SM City Masinag.

The holiday celebrations carried on with World Chorale Day, as choirs filled the malls with beloved Christmas carols. Heartwarming performances by Next in Line Music at SM City Masinag and SM Center Antipolo Downtown, Melody Makers Ensemble at SM City San Mateo, alongside New Anthem Chorale at SM City Marikina, created a warm yet joyful atmosphere that invited shoppers to pause and embrace the spirit of the season.

Most loved Christmas carols performed by New Line Music in SM Center Antipolo Downtown.

Melody Makers Ensemble sing their hearts out to serenade shoppers with Christmas songs at SM City San Mateo.

Joined by the SM Holi Squad, the caroling turned into a shared moment of joy—celebrating togetherness, community, and the true meaning of the holidays.

Your squad with SM Holi Squad at SM City San Mateo.

From joyful surprises to soul-stirring songs, SM Supermalls in the East Metro continue to create spaces where holiday moments are shared, celebrated, and remembered.

Make this season extra special—spend the holidays with your family and friends at SM City Marikina, SM City Masinag, SM City San Mateo, and SM Center Antipolo Downtown. Discover more festive activities, enjoy meaningful moments, and let SM be part of your Christmas story.

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