The festive season in Davao officially began with warmth and tradition as The Royal Mandaya Hotel (TRMH) held its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony on Saturday, November 29, 2025. The event, themed "Christmas Tradition of Love," was personally led by the hotel's owning family, the Escandors, marking a heartfelt start to the holidays for the local community and loyal patrons.
A Family Affair and Festive Welcome
The hotel lobby transformed into a scene of intimate celebration, where guests from the Escandor Group of Companies and media representatives were welcomed like old friends. The air filled with classic Filipino Christmas carols performed by the Davao Girls Choir, setting a nostalgic and joyous tone. Attendees dressed in festive reds, greens, and golds mirrored the hotel's elegant holiday decor, enhancing the feeling of a spirited family reunion.
Inna Melissa Escandor Wee, the Managing Director and Executive Vice President of TRMH, addressed the gathered crowd. She centered her welcome message on the power of love as the binding spirit of the season and the ceremony's core theme. Inna reflected on the symbolic colors of Christmas: red for joy, green for prosperity, and gold for gratitude. She emphasized that the hotel's towering tree serves as a beacon, reminding everyone that compassion and human connection are the brightest lights, especially during challenging times.
The Countdown to a Golden Illumination
The highlight of the evening was the ceremonial countdown to light the magnificent 21-foot Christmas tree. The moment was a true family endeavor. Inna was joined by her husband, Kristian Wee; her grandmother and corporate treasurer, matriarch Violeta Escandor; and her uncle, Gerome Escandor, who serves on the board of directors for both TRMH and Dasia security agency.
A special presence was Kashie Escandor Wee, the daughter of Inna and Kristian. As the first grandchild of Escandor Group President and CEO Glenn Escandor and his wife Michelle, Kashie is also the first great-granddaughter of Ma'am Violeta, representing the family's legacy.
As the countdown reached zero, the tree erupted in a shower of golden light, accompanied by floating confetti and cheers from children and adults alike. The lobby resonated with applause, laughter, and merry greetings, officially declaring the Christmas season open at the hotel.
Continuing a Cherished Davao Tradition
Following the lighting, guests eagerly lined up to take photographs with the sparkling tree, capturing memories of the magical night. The celebration continued with a hearty Christmas buffet, and attendees received sweet treats to take home, serving as edible souvenirs of the evening's warmth.
More than just a corporate event, The Royal Mandaya Hotel's Christmas tree lighting has cemented itself as a cherished annual tradition for Davao. It successfully recreates the feeling of a homecoming, gathering the community in a familiar and festive space. The event powerfully illustrates that the holiday spirit shines its brightest when shared with loved ones and the extended "Mandaya family."
