Ushering in the holiday spirit, The Westin Manila celebrated Nov. 6 with a grand Christmas tree lighting ceremony in the hotel lobby. The 25-foot tree, adorned with ornaments made from local materials, features a nature-inspired theme. Drawing from biophilia—the human desire to connect with nature—the display symbolizes well-being and tranquility. A festive touch accompanies the tree: a decorative Advent-inspired shelf offers thoughtful gifts that guests can purchase to share with loved ones.
The event also offered guests a preview of The Westin’s holiday culinary experiences. Executive Chef Rej Casanova and his award-winning team set the stage with an array of grilled meats and seafood, giving a taste of the hotel's grill pop-up, available from Monday through Thursday evenings. Guests sampled the Holiday Afternoon Tea set, which included an array of sweets and savory bites that captured the season’s flavors. Special holiday-themed cocktails were also featured, including Puto Bumbong, Holiday Sangria, and Ragon Crisp, adding a festive twist to the evening.
During the ceremony, Meegee Yap, director of sales and marketing, introduced the hotel’s holiday offerings, highlighting gift packages and seasonal dining specials designed to create lasting memories. “As you breeze through the season with the people you love, allow us to add comfort and joy to your celebration with exciting feasts, gifts, and delicacies to share with family and friends,” Yap said. “We hope that the spirit of togetherness will bring you cheer as you revel in cherished traditions, relive memories, and look forward to new beginnings.”
Hotel general manager Alexander Dietzsch took the opportunity to express gratitude for the community’s support since The Westin Manila’s opening in March 2023. He also announced the launch of a charity initiative benefiting Save the Children, in partnership with the Marriott Worldwide Business Council Philippines. Proceeds from ornaments purchased at the hotel will support this cause, bringing holiday cheer to children in need.
For those looking to elevate their dining experiences, Dietzsch shared exciting updates. Cantabria by Chele Gonzalez will be offering special seasonal dishes from November to December, including Bone Marrow and Wagyu Steak Paella with Mushrooms and Black Truffle, Grilled Duck Breast, and US Angus Tomahawk Steak. Additionally, on November 28, Cantabria will host a wine dinner featuring premium meats, seafood, and wines from Rioja, Spain’s famed wine region.
Dietzsch also announced new dining themes at Seasonal Tastes, including Filipino Salo-Salo Tuesdays and Mediterranean Wednesdays. The hotel is also introducing Green Mondays, a collaboration with Chef Dan Puga of Burrow Café, which will spotlight sustainable, zero-waste dishes in the lunch buffet.
Looking ahead, Dietzsch hinted at the launch of Aire32, a rooftop dining venue featuring an al fresco setting with sweeping views of the Ortigas skyline. Scheduled to open in early 2025, Aire32 will offer a bar, private dining room, and an expansive outdoor area, creating a new destination for both events and casual dining.
With its vibrant holiday decor, curated dining experiences, and commitment to giving back, The Westin Manila is embracing the holiday season with warmth and elegance.