The Manila Hotel's Christmas tree lighting ceremony signals the start of the joyous season for the children beneficiaries of The House of Refuge The Manila Hotel—Philippines’ oldest premier five‑star establishment, whose cornerstone was laid in 1909 and doors opened on July 4, 1912—once again illuminated its grand lobby with the traditional Christmas tree lighting ceremony on Wednesday, November 4. The festive tableau, a glittering pine bedecked with giant red anahaw fans and golden cadena de amor, along with twinkling ornaments and a crown of resplendent lights, signaled the official start of the season not only for the storied hotel but for the whole of Manila. The celebration was led by a distinguished roster of guests: Chairman Basilio C. Yap and President Atty. Jose D. Lina Jr. of Manila Hotel, Manila City Mayor Francisco 0“Isko” Moreno, Tourism Secretary Maria Bernardita Angara‑Mathay, and Culture and Arts of Manila (DTCAM) Director Cristal Bagatsing. Adding a dash of youth...