In Binondo, Manila, Hotel Lucky Chinatown held its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony with the spirit of hope. Held on 8 November at the hotel's Main Lobby, the celebration was made more special with the presence of students from the Philippine Institute for the Deaf, HLC's official partner.

Officially lit up was the "Tree of Hope," which is said to symbolize hope and togetherness, and aims to foster a sense of unity and warmth within the community.

This year's tree is adorned with dazzling lights, red and gold ornaments, and a star atop the tree. Each ornament has representation — the red decors reflecting warmth, comfort and the love shared among family and friends during the festive season, and the gold bling bringing light, wealth and the presence of God.

Attendees were treated to a dinner at the Cafe dé Chinatown. HLC's culinary team used local produce and offered the sampaguita flavors unique to the Megaworld brand through their sampaguita shortcake.

"Christmas is not a season for me, it's a feeling," said Jeremy Russell Go, the hotel's general manager. "In a world where hope is more vital than ever, our ceremony symbolizes a collective wish for brighter days and shared joy."

As part of their sustainability partnership with the PID this Christmas, HLC provided nearly 300 kilograms of used bar soap from the hotel operations for PID's Soap for Hope campaign, an initiative that helps reduce hotel waste by turning used soap into something useful.

Hotel Lucky Chinatown's tree lighting ceremony is said to be a symbolic gesture, a reminder that amidst the glittering lights, there shines a beacon of hope, uniting all in the spirit of the season.