MANILA, Philippines — The festive spirit has officially arrived in Muntinlupa City as the local government hosted a grand Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the city hall grounds last Friday night.
The celebration’s highlight was a 45-foot Christmas tree topped with a three-foot star.
Decorated with festive garlands, resin ornaments and sparkling Christmas balls, the tree’s 20-foot diameter base was crafted to resemble a delightful Christmas Village.
Thousands of Christmas and pixel lights lit the display, bathing the city hall quadrangle in a warm, festive glow.
Adding to the Yuletide ambiance, performances by local choirs set the tone for a joyous evening.
Ensembles from the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa, Colegio de Muntinlupa, Tunasan National High School and Muntinlupa National High School serenaded the crowd.
A standout performance came from Muntinlupa Science High School, this year’s champion of the 5th Aming Munting Handog Choral Festival.
City employees joined residents in celebrating the start of the holiday season, which concluded with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the night sky.
Mayor Ruffy Biazon expressed his gratitude and shared the deeper meaning behind the occasion.
“This tree lighting ceremony marks the beginning of our holiday festivities. It symbolizes hope, unity and the joy of the season. Let’s spread the light and warmth of Christmas throughout Muntinlupa,” Biazon said.