The lights and the carols

CEBU, Philippines - To officially usher in the start of the holiday season, Cebu City Marriott Hotel gathered business partners, in-house guests and media friends to its annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on November 17, at the hotel’s lobby.

Filling the air with the warmth of the season, the Classic Youth Orchestra, under the baton of Reynaldo Abellana, performed a delightful medley of familiar Christmas favorites, entitled “A Christmas Festival” by Leroy Anderson. Cebuano soprano Jessica McYorker then captivated the crowd as she gracefully glided through the high notes of well-loved classic “Light of a Million Mornings” accompanied by a 36-piece orchestra.

Right on cue at the final note, Cebu City Marriott Hotel’s Executive Committee headed by General Manager Patrick Carroll and guest of honor Mrs. Fiona King, Founding Chief Executive Officer of RFK Holdings and President of PAREB-Cebu Real Estate Board, lit up the 15-foot tree in fiery red and gold, alongside a life-size Gingerbread Train made with edible gingerbread cookies and colorful frosting! This year’s theme revolves around the warmth and vibrancy of the color red that celebrates the joy of the season and the happiness that the presence of family and friends bring during this time of the year.

As guests proceeded to enjoy the cocktails prepared by Executive Chef Chachpol Suaisom and his kitchen team, the Celestial Voices choir continued to serenade the crowd with delightful carols and cheer! (FREEMAN)