The local government of Manila has launched a new commercial destination place dubbed as "Paskuhan sa Mehan Garden," just a few steps from the City Hall.

The initiative offers goods, foods and other merchandise.

Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna said that the Christmas activity — which officially began on 15 December — treats the visitors to daily lights and sounds shows and a bazaar that features a number of exhibitors selling various kinds of gift and food items.

Lacuna also commended Permits Bureau chief Levi Facundo and City Tourism Department chief Charlie Dungo for putting up the project which aims to help small entrepreneurs and to generate jobs in time for the holiday season.

She also stressed that the site of the Christmas activity is an open air promenade where the risk of getting Covid-19 is minimal.

Facundo, meanwhile, disclosed that the food festival is a hit among groups and families who flock to Mehan each day to eat together while enjoying the ambience and live performances that are also being offered free of charge.

The "Paskuhan sa Mehan Garden" is open daily from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. until 1 January 2023.