A fabulous Christmas

CONE-SHAPED Christmas trees stand majestically in the lobby.

How does a grand dame dress up for the holidays? Something rich, something glittery and something traditional, of course.

That is exactly how the Manila Hotel looks this Christmas season. Being the star that she is, one that has kept its prestige and identity as the foremost lady of Manila, she is again all dressed up to the nines, reminding one and all that she is the original hotel in this part of the world, where international dignitaries and VIPs, including presidents and monarchs, have stayed and enjoyed the pleasures it offers.

That it pays tribute to the Filipino tradition affirms its connection to the past, which is to say that Manila’s elite and high society, though the years, have always patronized it. And this goes all the way back to antebellum Philippines.

This year’s spectacular display is not to be missed because it brings not just warm memories but most importantly, it makes one proud to be a Filipino.

Interestingly, its annual Christmas tree lighting tradition had no less than the City of Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso as its guest of honor. Beyond the fanfare, what the Grand Dame sought to convey is that anyone can be a light to someone else — especially in this season of hope.

What makes the event more special is Manila Hotel’s long-standing commitment to support the House of Refuge, a shelter that provides basic needs to abandoned, orphaned, and maltreated young children and teens. Annually, the heritage hotel fulfills its pledge by turning over its donation in a simple ceremony kicked off by the traditional tree lighting.

This year, Manila Hotel pay homage to the artistry of our brothers and sisters from Iloilo.

At the lobby entrance, illustrious guests are greeted with a replica of an Iloilo mansion, where anyone can shop for goodies and souvenir items, and even have pictures taken.

The iconic Grand Lobby is awash in gold and beige, departing from the common western holiday hues to underscore the elegance of our theme.

Forgoing the popular silhouette, the cone-shaped Christmas trees scattered all over the lobby display the patterns of the callado, the traditional Filipino embroidery technique. Additional embroidered Christmas décor created by members of different Iloilo communities as well as capiz ornaments hanging from the grand chandeliers add to the local touch.

The Manila Hotel, indeed, once again proudly shows its deep appreciation for our roots as it welcomes its guests to join the celebration of a truly Filipino Christmas.