Images by Andie D. Syyap at Andie Syyap Photography

“The most wonderful time of the year” is arguably even more wonderfully celebrated in the Philippines—festivities commence as soon as the “-ber” months roll around, making it quite possibly the longest celebration across the globe.

Brimming with joyful traditions, the Filipino Christmas is characterized by a display of faith at early morning masses, twinkling lights and lanterns, lovingly displayed Nativity scenes, heartwarming carols, delicious local delicacies and mouthwatering fare, and, most importantly, precious gatherings with loved ones from near and far.

Making gatherings more meaningful

Crimson Hotel Filinvest City’s recent tree lighting ceremony, held on November 9, 2022, encapsulated the feel-good, festive hallmarks of a customary Filipino Christmas. With its holiday theme, Dito Tayo sa Pasko, the mood evoked a happy family get-together, encouraging visitors to make gatherings more meaningful and to come home to Crimson for the holidays.

The well-attended event showcased the melodic voices of the Muntinlupa Chorale, the official chorale group of the local government, performing nostalgic carols, as well as upbeat seasonal songs that definitely served to warm the hearts of all in attendance. Guests relished an appetizing array of Pinoy-style canapés and cocktails infused with local flavor, as well as creamy homemade sorbetes, rich and velvety hot tsokolate, and a selection of sticky rice cakes.

“Christmas 2022 is going to be punctuated by meaningful gatherings, in light of the seclusion we all felt throughout the duration of the pandemic,” Arlene Tongco, the hotel’s GM, noted, as she officially welcomed guests to the evening’s affair.

Coming home for the holidays

The star of the night, of course, was the hotel’s stunning Yule Tree, which sparkled in full seasonal splendor. Bedecked with ribbons of sinamay fabric, capiz shell parols and ornaments, and an assortment of baubles in hues of glimmering gold and an ethereal neutral palette, the tree stood tall; a proud centerpiece to the convivial ceremony. Arlene G. Tongco; James Montenegro, Chroma Hospitality Country Manager; Carmela Bocanegra, Chroma VP for Sales and Marketing; and Roger John Smith, Deputy Administrator of Muntinlupa City presided over the evening’s affairs.

“We Filipinos love our home. It’s a concept that encapsulates all the best of our country; the heart of our people. It’s a place where we celebrate Christmas, a season of homecoming; of being together, sharing stories with families, and enjoying the best food for Noche Buena. And now that the world is finally open again, we at Crimson Hotel Filinvest City Manila are so excited to open our doors and welcome all of you, our guests, back home,” Tongco shared. “This year, we are celebrating Christmas with Dito Tayo sa Pasko festivities and exceptional staycations, where friends and family can enjoy each other’s company while enjoying exceptional amenities,” she added.

Celebrating the spirit of giving

In the true spirit of the season—the spirit of giving — the hotel presented Stage Zero by Project Pink with a check for P250,000, in support of the breast cancer awareness advocacy group’s many activities.  Since 2017, Crimson has bolstered said efforts through Passionately Pink, in collaboration with Stage Zero by Project Pink. Passionately Pink is a campaign that has become a part of Chroma Hospitality culture across all its Crimson properties. Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the hotel group features a specially curated selection of staycation promos, dining offers, and special events centered on the theme of women’s resilience through better education and an improved quality of life.

For more of the Crimson Hotel Filinvest City’s special holiday promotions, packages, and #DitoTayoSaPasko offerings, visit www.crimsonhotel.com.