Seda Hotels across the Philippines have officially launched the Christmas season with festive tree lighting ceremonies at their Cebu properties, embracing this year's theme of "the joy that brings us together." The celebrations brought together hotel executives, local government officials, and community partners in events that combined holiday cheer with meaningful social responsibility initiatives.
Dual Celebrations Across Cebu Properties
The holiday festivities commenced simultaneously at two prominent Seda locations in Cebu. Seda Ayala Center Cebu held its tree lighting ceremony a week ago, featuring a beautifully decorated tree adorned with simple but elegant native ornaments. The event was led by cluster general manager Gwen Dela Cruz and AyalaLand hospitality head of marketing and commercial Roshan Nandwani, who were joined by other key hotel executives including financial controller Ruben Bancaya, director of human resources Bobot Codoy, and director of sales Valerie Ann Frias.
Meanwhile, Seda Central Bloc presented an equally impressive celebration under the leadership of general manager Ron Manalang. Their towering Christmas tree featured gold balls, ribbons, and fan-like ornaments, creating a spectacular centerpiece for the holiday season.
Distinguished Guests and Community Spirit
Both events attracted notable figures from Cebu's local government, adding significance to the celebrations. The Seda Central Bloc ceremony featured Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro and Cebu Mayor Nestor Archival as special guests. They joined hotel executives including AyalaLand Hospitality head of strategy and development Emee Aganon, director of sales and marketing Thrina de la Calzada, and front office manager Loren De Guzman in the ceremonial tree lighting.
In her welcome address at Seda Ayala Center Cebu, GM Gwen Dela Cruz emphasized the deeper meaning behind the celebrations, stating that "even in the most difficult of times, there is always a hidden blessing and a Light that shines." This sentiment reflected the hotel's commitment to spreading hope and joy during the Christmas season despite current challenges.
Entertainment and Festive Offerings
The tree lighting ceremonies were enhanced by beautiful musical performances that created a truly festive atmosphere. The Celestial Voices provided background music at Seda Ayala Center Cebu, while The Cebu Normal University Chorale and String Edition Orchestra performed at Seda Central Bloc, filling the air with Christmas melodies.
Following the ceremonies, guests enjoyed dinner receptions at respective hotel ballrooms. The Sampaguita Ballroom hosted Seda Ayala Center Cebu's guests, while Seda Central Bloc entertained attendees at the Sinamay Ballroom with a sit-down dinner affair.
Social Responsibility and Holiday Promotions
A significant aspect of both events was the emphasis on corporate social responsibility. Seda Ayala Center Cebu highlighted its partnership with Smile Train, an organization that provides surgery for children with cleft palates, and Gasa Sa Gugma, a home for elderly indigents. The hotel presented a video clip showcasing these initiatives and their beneficiaries.
Similarly, Seda Central Bloc showcased its "Seda With a Heart" program, featuring outreach activities in schools and communities, as well as relief operations for typhoon victims in San Remegio. Both properties also introduced their holiday offerings, including Festive Stay packages, special buffets, Christmas Hampers, signature Seda ham, and Grazing Boxes.
More than just festive traditions, these Christmas tree-lighting ceremonies demonstrated Seda Hotels' commitment to shared joy and the collective spirit of generosity, hope, and love that defines the holiday season in the Philippines.
