Taal Vista Hotel (TVH), the second oldest hotel in the Philippines, is steeped in history and heritage. In addition, it lords over the iconic Taal Volcano, which has continued to be a pivotal part of Philippine life and has shaped the landscape of Tagaytay.

And thus, as part of TVH’s 85th anniversary, it has re-launched its A Walk Through Time exhibit, written and curated by Nes Jardin, which immerses guests through a comprehensive journey of the Taal Volcano and its close ties with the hotel and the region in general. Initially launched in 2022, this gallery has since been revamped to include more milestones and chronicled events that have left an indelible mark on the country.

TVH Rooms Division manager Rafael Vigal conducted a tour of the exhibit, as he narrated the story of the vulcan, its consecutive eruptions and the development of TVH through the decades, across several government administrations.

Recently, the TVH grounds likewise gave way to the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, themed “Timeless Christmas.” At the flick of a switch by Elizabeth Sy, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) president; Peggy Angeles, SMHCC EVP; and Ramon Makilan, TVH general manager, the white and gold capiz tree bedecked with parols illuminated not only the tall centerpiece but the entire area of the property.

Makilan believes the holidays are an irreplaceable aspect for every family.

“It is symbolic for us for two reasons. First, we would like to highlight the timelessness of Taal Vista Hotel, providing you with the blend of tradition and culture, and familiarity and comfort through the years. On our 85th anniversary, we are grateful to have been part of your lives, big or small, and we are thankful to each and every one of you for always making us your home,” he said.

“Let’s remember the true spirit of Christmas — one of joy, compassion, and goodwill. May this tree serve as a beacon of light in our lives, guiding us to spread warmth and kindness to those around us,” he ended.

The program continued with a six-course Italian wine pairing dinner, curated by a team led by chef Leah Magallanes, SMHCC VP for Quality and Sustainability.

“From its opening in 1939, Taal Vista Hotel has been a silent witness to the Philippines’ incredible journey — through colonization, independence, and globalization. Each chapter in our nation’s history has left an indelible mark on our culture and, of course, our cuisine. Filipino food is a tapestry woven with rich traditions, innovations, and flavors, and it continues to tell our story as a people,” she expounded.

The collaboration among executive chef Jayme Natividad, renowned chocolatier and pastry chef Ely Salar, and chocolatier and freelance PR consultant Treena Tecson resulted in a special menu full of discoveries featuring the special ingredient: local chocolate.

The dinner began with amuse bouche of homemade chocolate ravioli, paired with Bella Storia Chardonnay. What followed were the soup and salad of Chicken Pot Pie and Waldorf Aspic, which prepared us for the first entrée of Paella Marisco Soccarat. This burnt paella rice, grilled prawns and mussel ceviche was a perfect combination with Rocca Ventosa Trebbiano d’Abruzzo DOP.

After the Sampaloc and Tarragon Sorbet, what followed was the main entrée of roast beef — Kitayama Striploin with a trio of Tagaytay muhsrooms.

A sweet ending was the Chocolate Eruption with 60-percent Aton cacao dark chocolate, with Brilla Moscato. All wines were sponsored by Wine Hub, a premier distributor in the Philippines.

Let’s not forget the ballrooms were elegantly adorned with Christmas lights, while fresh flower centerpieces were from Julius Villamante of Amante Fleurs. Artuz provided professional lights and sounds for the evening.

To close out the evening, guests marvelled the musical showcase of classic 1930 hits — the same era where the then-Taal Vista Lodge opened to the public. Theater stalwarts Kayla Rivera and Vien King, a leading saxophone artist Josh Espinosa, and talented pianist, Kim Dominik Sarmiento, joined forces for “As Time Goes By,” their specially-crafted showcase. The repertoire consisted of “Begin the Beguine” as photos of the hotel through the years flashed in the background, followed by “Summertime,” “The Way You Look Tonight,” “Besame Mucho,” “Fly Me to the Moon,” “My Funny Valentine,” and “Let It Snow.” The finale were “Winter Wonderland” and “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” The performance was directed by Nes Jardin and produced by TVH.

The children of Augustinian Sisters Servants of Jesus and Mary were the recipients of annual gifts from TVH.

Taal Vista Hotel is located along Kilometer 60, Aguinaldo Highway, Tagaytay City, Philippines. For inquiries and reservations, call +63 (2) 7917 8225, +63 (46) 413 1000 or +63 917 809 1254.