The holiday spirit officially arrived at The Mactan Newtown on Friday, November 28, 2025, with a grand ceremony to light its majestic "Tree of Hope" and unveil a special nativity scene. This event marked the launch of the mall's Bright Christmas celebration, a season dedicated to honoring the resilience, unity, and unwavering spirit of the Cebuano community.
Ceremonial Lighting with Local Leaders
The festive evening saw key figures from Lapu-Lapu City and Megaworld leading the ceremony. With Christmas star lightsticks illuminating the crowd, the event was spearheaded by Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Cindi King Chan and Rep. Junard "Ahong" Chan. They were joined by Megaworld Lifestyle Malls VP for Strategic Support Rene Arnobit, Mactan Newtown General Manager Marilou Kiunisala, and Barangay Captain Efren Aying of Brgy. Mactan.
A Tribute in Lights and Wood
The centerpiece, the Tree of Hope, is a stunning sight adorned with shimmering Capiz shell lanterns and vibrant red ornaments. It stands as a heartfelt symbol of the community's strength. Complementing the tree is a magnificent, five-foot-tall belen (nativity scene) featuring the Holy Family. This piece holds special significance as it was skillfully hand-carved from Narra wood by artisans from Barangay Mactan, showcasing the area's renowned mastery in wood carving and paying homage to Cebu's deep devotion and artistry.
Graham Coates, First Vice President and Head of Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, shared the celebration's core message. "The Bright Christmas celebration is a powerful testament that light shines brightest through shared faith and tradition," he stated. "Every element honors local art, celebrates shared traditions, and reminds us that even in challenging times, our community can come together to create light, joy, and hope."
Festive Activities Throughout December
The lighting ceremony was just the beginning of a joyful evening. The Newtown School of Excellence Glee Club and the NSEI Children’s Drum and Bugle performed lively holiday songs, while the Celestial Voices Choral added their renditions of Christmas classics. Mall-goers also enjoyed the Feast of Lights: Food Fair, where mall partners offered holiday specials and discounts.
The festivities will continue throughout the season. From November 28 to December 28, the Mactan Newtown Boardwalk will host the Yuletide Fair with pop-up stores open from 4 p.m. to midnight. December weekends will come alive with Moonlight Melodies, a series of live performances featuring local buskers.
The Mactan Newtown invites everyone to celebrate a season that is More than Merry. For updates on the Bright Christmas events, visit megaworld-lifestylemalls.com or call 09276317671.
