Seda Cebu Illuminates the Season with Community-First Christmas Tree
The festive spirit officially arrived at Seda Central Bloc Cebu with a meaningful Christmas tree lighting ceremony. The event, held on November 17, 2025, was themed "The Joy That Brings Us Together," perfectly capturing the essence of Filipino holiday celebrations. The hotel successfully created a warm, glowing atmosphere filled with laughter and camaraderie, marking a vibrant start to the Yuletide season.
A Gathering of Community and Culture
The ceremony was graced by key figures who led the symbolic lighting. The group included, from left: Thrina de la Calzada, Director of Sales and Marketing; Emee Aganon, AyalaLand Hospitality Head of Strategy and Development; Ron Manalang, General Manager; Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro; and Loren De Guzman, Front Office Manager. Adding to the significance of the occasion, Christmas messages from Gov. Baricuatro and Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival were shared, highlighting the communal aspect of the festivities.
Guests celebrated in modern Filipiniana attire, a sartorial nod to how Filipinos uniquely celebrate Christmas and the New Year during the Advent season. The Christmas tree itself stood as a powerful symbol of joy and community, thoughtfully adorned with native and locally made ornaments.
The Deeper Meaning of Filipino Christmas Traditions
This event at Seda is part of a wider celebration happening across Cebu and the entire Philippines. Yuletide festivities continue to brighten schools, department stores, beach resorts, and homes. A quintessential symbol of this season is the parol, or Christmas lantern. Historically, the parol represents the star that guided the Three Kings to Bethlehem to adore the newborn Christ with Mary and Joseph. Today, these colorful lanterns illuminate homes and establishments, serving as a beacon of hope and faith.
Beyond the decorations and parties, the season brings immense joy to children, who are the happiest receiving gifts from Santa Claus, family, and relatives. More importantly, the period encourages everyone to internalize the message of love and goodwill, which lies at the very heart of Christmas.
