November marks an exciting time as places left and right start having their Christmas tree lighting ceremonies. The Manila Hotel is one of the few that have mastered such an occasion. From the moment you enter, the hotel's halls can be seen covered with the festive spirit as the Salakot-themed decor brings both yuletide joy and Pinoy pride.

"Here at The Manila Hotel, you can see it from the smiles of our people. You can see from the greetings of the bellman to our ushers and usherettes, to the smiles of our office personnel, to the waiters who serve our food, their constant smile not only during this period but throughout the year, (it) symbolizes that enduring love, not only for our guests but for the one who created us all and is responsible for our existence here on earth," enthuses The Manila Hotel president and director Atty. Jose D. Lina.

To kick things off, children from the House of Refuge delivered a joyful dance number. It was followed by a serenade of Christmas carols by the Office of the President Chorale that lifted everyone's spirits. A highlight of the afternoon was the enticing dishes presented during the food march portion of the ceremony for guests to feast on.

For the grand finale, the countdown to light it all up was led by The Manila Bulletin publisher Herminio "Sonny" Coloma, Minister of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines deputy representative Dustin Teng-Shi Yang, The Manila Hotel director and executive vice president Dr. Enrique C. Yap, The Manila Hotel chairman Basilio C. Yap, Bb. Pilipinas International 2024 Myrna Esguerra, The Manila Hotel president and director Atty. Jose D. Lina, Ambassador of Israel Ilan Fluss, and The Manila Hotel vice president for sales and marketing Marvin Kim Tan.