Pampanga artisan-crafted Christmas tree lights up TAGAYTAY

Long before the new generation of travelers sought after its cool ridge breezes, Taal Vista Hotel had stood as Tagaytay’s steadfast sentinel — the eternal onlooker to the lake’s shifting moods and the volcano’s many historic awakenings. It was here once more that the hotel welcomed the Christmas season with its annual tree lighting, an evening of history and thanksgiving.

General manager Ramon Makilan shared his thanks and gratitude with the hotel’s partners and supporters as Taal Vista Hotel marked its remarkable 86th anniversary. Yet amid the several new enhancements, he reminded everyone that the true essence of the season rests in “love, kindness and togetherness.”

The ceremonial moment arrived as the Christmas tree — beautifully handcrafted by Pampanga’s skilled artisans — awaited its illumination. The button was pressed by Elizabeth Sy, president of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC), and Cathy Nepomuceno, senior vice president for Operations of SMHCC. The all-capiz-shell tree shimmered to life, casting a warm radiance across the lobby as applause rose in unison.

In an instant, the Himig San Jose Choir from Alfonso, Cavite, rendered a heartfelt performance of Filipino Christmas standards such as “Kumukutikutitap.” This brought a sense of joy from the crowd.

The gathering continued with an elegant Christmas Wine Dinner at the Sampaguita Ballroom, where guests enjoyed a six-course menu crafted by TAZA Fresh Table. This included pommes soufflé with tobiko and crème fraîche, French onion soup, frisée and romaine salad, seafood ravioli, a 23-day dry-aged New York strip steak, and a finale of homemade cheesecake and crème caramel.

Each dish was paired with favorite wines from Chile and Australia, generously sponsored by Unitetris Philippines.

As guests dined, entertainment came in the form of a special musical set by Margaux Salcedo. Throughout the evening, featured pianist Richard Reyes rendered endless Christmas carols.

We soon learned of the hotel’s series of extraordinary milestones: its conferment as a United Nations Peace Center and Global Citizens Hub, its recognition as a Tourism Pillar Awardee at the inaugural Philippine Tourism Awards.

A prestigious distinction was likewise bestowed upon SMHCC president Elizabeth T. Sy, the UNA Philippines Presidential Medal and World Changers Award.

GM Makilan also unveiled exciting updates: the soon-to-open renovated Lake Wing rooms, the refreshed Rain, The Spa, and the highly anticipated debut of Tagaytay’s first-ever Presidential Villa.

As a highlight, the celebration — produced and directed by SMHCC consultant Nes Jardin — included a gift-giving activity for the children of the Augustinian Sisters Servants of Jesus, a gentle reminder that amid all celebrations, kindness remains the season’s truest light.