The vast backdrop of a flaming fireplace on the stage was eye-catching. In gathering dusk, it evoked a bittersweet effect on Saturday night at The Manor Hotel's garden grounds.

This was heightened all the more by the voices of the chorus singing carols; and that unmistakable hint of the cooler nights ahead.

Christmas joy was ringing through the air. And in a country that celebrates the holidays ahead of everybody else, it arrived first in Baguio City.

Nobody's sure when the hotel started its Christmas tree-lighting tradition, but for the fourth straight year at least, it has been held in behalf of the Autism Hearts Foundation's "Fashion Arts Autism Benefits."

"This is really the start of the Christmas season here in Baguio City, it's something that a lot of people are looking forward to; it's the beginning of what is known to be the peak of the peak season here in Camp John Hay," said The Manor chairman Robert John Sobrepeña.

"This is really the season for family and giving."

Sobrepeña and his wife, FAAB director Lissa, helped light up the Christmas tree whose ornaments included balls hand-painted by children from the foundation.

These all went on sale, as well as the mural displayed at the hotel lounge — a collaboration of eight children who are also beneficiaries.