Taal Vista Hotel lit the Capiz Christmas Tree, handcrafted by Pampanga artisans. Pictured from left: Ramon Makilan, GM; Elizabeth Sy, SMHCC President; and Cathy Nepomuceno, SMHCC SVP–Operations
Taal Vista Hotel welcomed the Christmas season with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony held on 22 November 2025 at the hotel’s historic main lobby, followed by a festive Christmas Wine Dinner at the Sampaguita Ballroom.
Cathy Nepomuceno, Senior Vice President for Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., delivered her heartfelt Christmas message.
Ramon Makilan, General Manager of Taal Vista Hotel, shared his warm holiday greetings during his speech.
Chef Leah Magallanes, Vice President for Quality and Sustainability of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp., gave guests a glimpse of the culinary offerings at the event.
The event was graced by esteemed guests including Ms. Cathy Nepomuceno, Senior Vice President–Operations of SMHCC, Ms. Elizabeth Sy, President of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC), and friends from the media. The Himig San Jose choir from Alfonso, Cavite set the tone with classic Filipino Christmas renditions, highlighted by “Kumukutikutitap.” Guests also enjoyed a special performance by Margaux Salcedo, who sang three classic and holiday selections.
The Himig San Jose Chorale from Alfonso, Cavite, filled the evening with festive harmonies.
Margaux Salcedo delivered a special performance, delighting guests at the Christmas Tree Lighting event.
In his welcome remarks, General Manager Ramon Makilan expressed gratitude to all attendees as the hotel marks its 86th anniversary. He shared upcoming developments including the soon-to-open newly renovated Lake Wing rooms, the refreshed Rain, The Spa, and the unveiling of Tagaytay’s first Presidential Villa—further elevating the guest experience. He reminded everyone that beyond the lights and décor, Christmas celebrates “love, kindness, and togetherness.”
Members of the media with Taal Vista Hotel General Manager Ramon Makilan, Director of Sales & Marketing Mary Rose Lomibao, and Cluster MarComm Manager Ariesha Faith Dimaano.
Cathy Nepomuceno and GM Ramon Makilan share a joyful moment during the gift-giving activity with the children of the Augustinian Sisters Servants of Jesus.
In her Christmas message, Ms. Cathy Nepomuceno highlighted the property’s remarkable achievements this year, including 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, and the distinguished honor bestowed on SMHCC President Ms. Elizabeth T. Sy—the UNA Philippines Presidential Medal and World Changers Award. She honored Taal Vista Hotel as a cherished landmark whose legacy continues to inspire meaningful, purpose-driven hospitality.
23-day dry-aged grilled New York Strip Steak served with glazed carrots, haricot vert, potato purée with mushrooms, crispy onions, and port sauce, paired with Emiliana Organic Novas Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon from Chile.
Wines for the evening were graciously sponsored by Unitetris Philippines.
Guests later gathered at the Sampaguita Ballroom for a memorable Christmas Wine Dinner, featuring a six-course menu curated and masterfully prepared by TĀZA Fresh Table, Taal Vista Hotel’s premier homegrown restaurant known for its fresh, garden-to-table philosophy. The courses included Pommes Soufflé with tobiko and crème fraîche, French Onion Soup, Frisée & Romaine Salad, Seafood Ravioli, 23-day dry-aged New York Strip Steak, and a delightful dessert pairing of Homemade Cheesecake and Crème Caramel, beautifully complemented by handpicked wines from Chile and Australia, generously sponsored by Unitetris Philippines.
The hotel’s outdoor Capiz Christmas Tree, beautifully handcrafted by Pampanga artisans, shining brightly to welcome the holiday season.
As the Christmas tree illuminated the Main Lobby and the evening concluded with heartfelt music, fine cuisine, and shared moments, Taal Vista Hotel reaffirmed its place at the #HeartOfTheHolidays, celebrating heritage, community, and the enduring Filipino spirit of togetherness.