The Heritage Hotel Manila officially ushered in the Christmas season with its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 5 at the hotel’s main lobby, bringing together distinguished guests, government officials, partners, and members of the community in a celebration of festive traditions, Filipino hospitality, and sustainability.
Carrying this year’s theme, “Celebrate the Season. Sustain the Future,” the event highlighted the hotel’s commitment to making the holiday season more meaningful through responsible initiatives, local partnerships, and community giving.
The celebration was led by General Manager Caleb Han, with messages from Pasay City Mayor Hon. Emy Calixto-Rubiano and Department of Tourism NCR Regional Director Catherine C. Agustin. The Our Lady of the Airways Chamber Singers added a festive touch to the occasion with their Christmas performances.
A major highlight of the celebration was the introduction of the Angel Wings Project, a sustainability and community-giving project developed in partnership with Slow Food Community. The initiative transforms repurposed Angel Wing clam shells (Pholas orientalis), locally known as Diwal, into handcrafted miniature Christmas angel ornaments. Under the initiative, guests, hotel partners, and the community are invited to sponsor an Angel Wings ornament for Php500, with a special treat of Pastillas, Polvoron, or Cookies from the hotel’s Goodie Counter. All proceeds raised directly benefit accredited Slow Food farming communities, supporting local farmers and producers who continue to preserve Filipino food traditions and champion responsible food production. The initiative will run from November 6, 2026 to January 3, 2027.
Doreen Alicia Gamboa-Pena, Executive Director of Slow Food Philippines and President of Slow Food Community of Negros Island, shared insights on the importance of strengthening partnerships that champion local food heritage, sustainable sourcing, and community development.
The evening culminated in the ceremonial lighting of the hotel’s Christmas tree, followed by a festive buffet dinner and more Christmas music.
Through this year’s celebration, The Heritage Hotel Manila reaffirms that the true spirit of Christmas goes beyond festive decorations and gatherings. It is about sharing blessings, preserving local heritage, supporting communities, and creating a more sustainable future—one act of kindness at a time.
