As the cool breeze of Baguio City ushers in the Christmas season, the spirit of the holidays shines brightly at The Mansion House.

One of the more iconic landmarks in the summer capital of the Philippines, The Mansion recently became the backdrop for a heartwarming celebration marking the beginning of the festive season in the northern part of the country.

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos led the inaugural lighting of the Christmas tree at The Mansion, extending a warm embrace to the people of Baguio and visitors alike. With the majestic tree as the centerpiece, the event was a blend of tradition, culture, and the unmistakable joy of the holiday season.

The grand tree, decorated in sparkling lights, Filipino parols, and ornaments that drew inspiration from the vibrant culture of the Cordillera region, stood tall as a symbol of hope and togetherness.

The Office of the Social Secretary described this year’s Christmas tree as a reflection of the country’s rich heritage, with each ornament telling a story of the Filipino spirit.

Beyond the tree lighting, the celebration featured an impressive lineup of cultural performances, Christmas carols sung by local choirs, and a lively marching band that filled the evening with music and cheer.

Visitors were invited to explore The Mansion House grounds, which had been transformed into a holiday wonderland, complete with a special photo area where guests could capture memories in front of the beautifully lit tree.

For the First Lady, the event was a heartwarming reminder of what Christmas is truly about.

“Baguio Mansion House shines once again!” she exclaimed, beaming with joy as children played nearby. “Christmas is all about sharing love and bringing joy, especially to the kids. Seeing their playful smiles completely made my day!”

She expressed the hope that the twinkling lights of the tree would inspire everyone who visits to create lasting, happy memories of Baguio.

The First Lady took the opportunity to encourage all Filipinos to embrace the spirit of giving and togetherness this Christmas season, reminding everyone that it is in giving that we find the true meaning of the holidays.

As the night unfolded under the cool Baguio sky, the message was clear: Christmas, at its core, is about love, family, and creating moments of happiness that will be cherished for years to come.