The holiday season is a time for rekindling traditions, spreading cheer, and finding joy in the simple moments that warm our hearts.
This year, the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino set the perfect stage for the festive spirit with its grand Christmas Tree Lighting event, aptly themed Santa’s Workshop.
The event, one of the highlights of Cebu’s holiday calendar, was attended by a distinguished array of government officials, business leaders, tourism industry players, members of the media, social media influencers, hotel guests, and local residents.
The evening began with a speech by General Manager Ali Banting, who masterfully transported the audience to an imaginary world where holiday magic exists year-round.
He spoke of elves busily working at their stations, crafting gifts with care, each one designed to bring a smile to a child’s face on Christmas morning.
Banting’s words resonated deeply as he reminded everyone that the season is about forgiveness, joy, and kindness—values that bring communities together. “Let us be reminded of the magic that comes from kindness, hard work, and love that we share with others,” he expressed.
This powerful reminder set the tone for the rest of the night, encouraging attendees to think about how even the simplest acts—writing a heartfelt holiday card, baking a treat for a loved one, or lending a helping hand—can mirror the spirit of Santa’s Workshop and bring a touch of magic to the world.
The Voice of Cebu Choir added a musical enchantment to the atmosphere, serenading guests with classic Christmas carols that filled the air with nostalgia and joy. Their harmonious voices were the perfect accompaniment to the festive evening, bringing smiles and a sense of unity to the crowd.
The grand finale saw a lineup of esteemed guests gather for the ceremonial lighting of the towering Christmas tree. Among them were Acting Vice Mayor Dondon Hontiveros, Pagcor Consolacion Pasion’s General Manager Dr. Vivina Chiu, Miss Universe Philippines-Cebu Kris Tiffany Janson, Mandaue Chamber President Marc Ynoc, Cebu City Councilor Atty. Joy Pesquera, Emirates Cebu’s Raymund Hicarte, European Chamber of Commerce Chairman and Mercedes-Benz CEO Jochen Bitzer and his wife Irma Bitzer, and of course, Ali Banting himself.
As the lights flickered to life and illuminated the hotel’s grand ballroom, the glow was more than just decorative; it was symbolic of the holiday season’s start and a call for togetherness. The ceremony reminded everyone present that the magic of Christmas is not just in grand displays but in the shared moments and the kindness we extend to others.
Walking away from the event, the guests carried more than just memories of a beautiful evening—they took with them a renewed sense of the true spirit of the season.
The lesson was clear: whether through small gestures or grand events, embodying the essence of Santa’s Workshop means bringing joy, love, and hope to those around us. And this year, Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino did just that, lighting not just a tree, but a spark of warmth in every heart.
CebuLifestyleChannel.ph