The festive spirit officially arrived in Lapu-Lapu City as The Mactan Newtown ushered in the holidays with a community-centered lighting ceremony on November 28, 2025. Dubbed "A Bright Christmas," the event transformed the Mactan Alfresco into a gathering place for families, local officials, and media, focusing on unity and hope beyond the glittering decorations.
A Celebration of Local Craft and Community Spirit
The evening's centerpieces were the Tree of Hope and a unique, handcrafted Nativity scene. The tree, adorned with shimmering Capiz shell lanterns and red ornaments, stood as a beautiful symbol of togetherness, intentionally incorporating local coastal materials. Alongside it, a five-foot-tall belen carved from narra wood by artisans from Barangay Mactan showcased exceptional Cebuano craftsmanship. This collaborative piece highlighted the event's deeper purpose: celebrating community collaboration as the true essence of Christmas.
Leaders Highlight Resilience and Generosity
The ceremonial lighting was led by key figures including Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cindi King Chan, Megaworld Lifestyle Malls VP Rene Arnobit, The Mactan Newtown General Manager Marilou Kiunisala, and Barangay Captain Efren Aying. In her remarks, Kiunisala framed "A Bright Christmas" as a celebration of human connections that propel people forward, emphasizing hope and generosity over mere ornaments.
Mayor Chan connected the celebration to the recent trials faced by Cebuanos, referencing a strong earthquake and successive typhoons. She urged the community to remember the season's core meaning: supporting one another. "Hope shines brightest when acts of kindness are done," Chan stated, reinforcing that practicing love strengthens the community.
Festive Performances and Ongoing Yuletide Activities
The program was energized by local musical talents. The SEI Children’s Drum and Bugle Corps performed, followed by carols from The Celestial Voices Choral, which kept the crowd's spirits high. The celebrations at The Mactan Newtown are set to continue throughout the season.
From November 28 to December 28, 2025, the Boardwalk will host a daily Yuletide Fair with pop-up stores open from 4 p.m. to midnight. Weekend evenings will feature "Moonlight Melodies," sessions spotlighting local buskers and offering more opportunities for visitors to enjoy live performances together.
More than a flashy spectacle, the launch was a testament to shared presence. Through the Tree of Hope and the hand-carved belen, The Mactan Newtown's Bright Christmas delivered a clear, heartfelt message: the season is brightest when illuminated by community, craft, and collective hope.
