Christmas Season 2023 officially kicked off on 6 October at The Peninsula Manila hotel in Makati City with the lighting of its 45-foot Christmas tree.

The highly anticipated annual tradition that dates back in 1976 was held at the hotel's famous The Lobby that has been festively spruced up for the most wonderful time of the year.

The Peninsula Manila's general manager Masahisa Oba led the ceremony, which aims to spread the message of hope and peace. He was joined by the children from Virlanie Foundation.

"This will be my fifth Christmas in Manila," Oba said in as statement, "but the buzz of excitement in the city, with its holiday parties and festive gatherings, never fades."

Before and after the formal Christmas tree lighting ceremony, a concert took place featuring the Lighter Side Movement Orchestra and The Peninsula Strings. They played classic and well-loved Christmas songs, including Ryan Cayabyab's "Kumukutikutitap" and Apo Hiking Society's Tuloy Na Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Pasko."

The concert also featured soprano Bianca Lopez Aguila, who regaled the audience with more Christmas carols such "O Holy Night," as well as a few Broadway show tunes and kundiman songs.