Carrying the theme “A Brighter Christmas for All,” the campaign goes beyond dazzling displays to spotlight sustainability, heritage, and community care—underscoring that Christmas shines brightest when it is shared responsibly.

At Liwanag Park inside Meralco’s Ortigas, Pasig compound, visitors are treated to immersive light installations that journey through the past, present, and future. Open daily from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. until December 23, and until midnight through December 31, 2025, the park features:

Past: Nostalgic scenes of vintage Filipino homes and parks

Present: Interactive light tunnels inspired by transmission lines and pedal-powered Christmas trees

Future: Whimsical gardens and motion-responsive illuminated pathways

Sustainability is at the heart of the experience. Installations are crafted from repurposed materials, including LED lights housed in used meter covers and a giant belen made from recycled copper wires. A highlight is the 3D mapping light show projected onto the iconic Lopez Building using Panasonic technology.

Guests can also enjoy a tranvia ride reminiscent of old Manila and indulge in holiday favorites such as puto bumbong and bibingka at the park’s tiangge and food bazaar.

Lighting up Intramuros with history and heart

In partnership with the One Meralco Foundation (OMF) and the Intramuros Administration, Meralco also lit up Plaza Roma, Intramuros, open until January 4, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

The ceremonial switch-on on November 26 was led by OMF President Jeffrey Tarayao, Intramuros Administrator Atty. Joan Padilla, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, and Meralco executives.

The installation blends tradition with innovation, featuring a 20-foot Christmas tree made from recycled meter covers and steel crossarms, energy-efficient LED displays, and a tranvia replica built from reclaimed wood—honoring Filipino heritage while championing environmental responsibility.

Spreading light to Batangas

Holiday cheer also reached Lipa, Batangas, where OMF partnered with the Archdiocese of Lipa to illuminate the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Sebastian and provide solar streetlamps to local parishes. The initiative included solar lights and noche buena packages for indigent families, reinforcing Meralco’s commitment to energy access and community upliftment.

The ceremonial lighting was led by Meralco COO Engr. Ronnie L. Aperocho, Lipa Archbishop Gilbert Garcera, Meralco’s Atty. Arnel Casanova, and OMF President Jeffrey Tarayao.

This year, “Maliwanag ang Pasko” is more than a holiday spectacle—it is a celebration of Filipino resilience, generosity, and unity, lighting the way toward a brighter, shared future.

In a world of challenges and uncertainties, your trust inspires us to continue our mission of communicating the truth, fostering collaboration, and connecting people to the right information and opportunities. Together, we have shown that even in the face of adversity, we can build bridges and bring hope to those in need.

As we reflect on our recent journeys, from Ukraine to Poland to Czech Republic, let us remember the resilience and courage of those who find strength even in the darkest times. May this season fill your hearts with peace, joy, and renewed purpose to make a difference in the coming year.

Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all!

GOD bless!

Warm regards,

The Philippine Business And News Team

The tropical depression, currently located 620 kilometers south of Kalayaan, Palawan, has maximum sustained winds of 55 km/h and gusts of up to 70 km/h. It is moving north-northeast at 20 km/h and is expected to enter PAR within 24 hours, where it will be named “Rumina.” This weather disturbance could bring heavy rains, particularly in southern regions, disrupting holiday plans.

The tropical depression’s trough is already affecting some areas, bringing cloudy skies with scattered rains and thunderstorms to the Zamboanga Peninsula, Palawan, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi. Moderate to heavy rainfall in these regions poses risks of flash floods and landslides.

Meanwhile, the shear line and northeast monsoon (amihan) are expected to bring adverse weather to other areas:

• Visayas, Bicol Region, Calabarzon, and the provinces of Oriental and Occidental Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, and Dinagat Islands will experience cloudy skies with scattered rains and isolated thunderstorms. Flash floods and landslides are possible due to intense rains.
• Metro Manila, Cagayan Valley, Cordillera Administrative Region, and Central Luzon will have cloudy skies with monsoon rains, with similar risks of flooding and landslides.
• The rest of Luzon will see partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated light rains due to the monsoon, with no significant impacts expected.
• The rest of Mindanao will have partly cloudy to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms, with localized flooding possible during severe thunderstorms.

Coastal conditions and travel warnings

• Strong winds and rough seas (waves up to 4.5 meters) are expected in Northern Luzon and the eastern sections of Central and Southern Luzon.
• Moderate to rough seas (waves up to 3.7 meters) will affect the Visayas, the rest of Luzon, and northeastern Mindanao. PAGASA advises coastal communities and seafarers to remain cautious.

PAGASA reminds the public to remain vigilant, especially in areas prone to flooding and landslides. Those traveling for the holidays are advised to monitor weather updates and prepare for possible disruptions. The agency assures the public of ongoing monitoring and timely updates as the situation develops.

Bea Alonzo, the newly minted brand ambassador of MyDiamond, shared a deeply personal diamond memory at her launch event. Her most treasured piece is a pair of “big” diamond earrings her mother gifted her after the phenomenal success of her movie “One More Chance” with John Lloyd Cruz.

“My mom wanted to gift me with something meaningful because the movie was such a big hit. That piece carries so many memories—of my mother always taking care of me, making sure that my earning are well invested, and celebrating life’s milestones together,” she said.

She also bought herself a necklace with the engraving “primero yo,” meaning “myself first,” when she went to Spain in September to get her residency card.

“Jewelries are timeless. You always wear them. They are great investments,” she said.

Her story perfectly encapsulates why diamonds are more than just dazzling gems. They symbolize life’s most significant moments, making them thoughtful gifts that resonate far beyond the sparkle.

Why are diamonds such exceptional Christmas gifts? Because they are timeless symbols of love, commitment, and lasting beauty. Diamonds as Christmas gifts expresses heartfelt sentiments in a way few other gifts can. With their enduring brilliance and deep symbolism, they can also be passed down through generations, turning a Christmas gift into a treasured family heirloom.

As in Bea Alonzo’s experience, diamonds are a great way of marking achievements and unforgettable memories. And Christmas is about celebrating special moments.

At MyDiamond, they craft each piece with meticulous care, guaranteeing unparalleled quality and ethical sourcing. They offer versatile options that cater to various tastes and occasions to ensure the perfect match for every loved one:

• Classic Collection: A tribute to timeless elegance, blending modern sensibility with enduring style—perfect for marking special occasions or creating heirlooms.
• Dream Collection: Delicate designs for the modern dreamer, ideal for stacking or as first-time diamond gifts.
• Signature Collection: Bold, high-impact pieces that make a statement—crafted for celebrating major achievements.
• Unity Collection: Wedding bands and engagement rings that celebrate love and commitment through timeless designs.
• White Halo Laboratory-Grown Diamonds Collection: Ethically created diamonds offering affordable luxury without compromising brilliance.

That’s why MyDiamond’s decision to choose Bea Alonzo as its brand ambassador is a match. She embodies grace, sophistication, and authenticity—values MyDiamond holds dear. Her advocacy for women’s empowerment and sustainability also aligns with the brand’s mission of promoting ethical sourcing and exceptional craftsmanship.

So this Christmas, consider a gift that captures the magic of the season while standing the test of time. With MyDiamond, you’re not just giving jewelry—you’re gifting memories, love, and a legacy that sparkles forever.

MyDiamond stores within Metro Manila are in: 

1. Gateway Mall – Upper Ground Level, Gateway Mall, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City. Viber: (+63) 917-8077982
2. Glorietta 4 – Level 2, Glorietta 4, Ayala Avenue corner Pasay Road, Ayala Center, Makati City. Viber: (+63) 917-8663909 
3. SM Aura – Level 2, SM Aura Premier, 26th Street Corner McKinley Parkway Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City. Viber: (+63) 917-5746822
4. SM Mall of Asia – Level 2, SM Mall of Asia, Main Mall South Wing, Seaside Blvd., Pasay City. Viber: (+63) 917-8823659

Stores may have modified hours. Before your visit, please call or message via Viber, phone at (+63) 977-2399226, or leave a message on Facebook at MyDiamondPH.

Veronica Uy

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is up in arms — not against criminals or syndicates — but against a Christmas party attendee wearing a police uniform. A foreigner, no less, who dared don the blue garb in what appears to be a harmless, festive jest.

So, the PNP cites Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code, wagging the threat of a six-month jail sentence — to which one might ask: Why so stiff about it, Brigadier General Jean Fajardo?

We get it: the law prohibits the unauthorized use of official uniforms. But the spirit behind that tenet in the law addresses misrepresentation and misuse that bastardizes or stains the uniform of a state officer.

Question: Was this instance a bastardization of the uniform?

First of all, if this foreigner wore it as a costume to a party, at worst, it could have been a tongue-in-cheek nod to the country’s force.

Now, imagine, for instance, if this foreigner were a member of the diplomatic corps — wouldn’t it be easy to think that this member of a foreign mission was paying a lighthearted tribute to the Filipino nation?

If this were a high-ranking embassy official, that act should be flattering for surely it would elevate the perception of the PNP uniform.

But what ticks me more about the PNP being antsy is – what’s the PNP’s media tantrum all about? I mean no disrespect to our national police, but let’s not pretend it enjoys spotless prestige, given that many “scalawags in uniform” are the very first ones tarnishing its image.

The irony thickens when we consider how freely the uniform appears in movies, TV dramas, or — more controversially — in crime stories involving actual PNP officers. For many years as a news reporter, editor, and columnist, this corner has tackled countless cases of police linked to extortion, illegal drugs, and even murder.

Yet here we are with the PNP spokesperson making a spectacle over a Christmas costume.

More baffling is the subtext. If whispers are true and this costume party offender is indeed a high-ranking diplomat from a very close ally of the Philippines, the PNP’s reaction borders on tone-deafness.

Let’s say, for example, this staunch ally is one like Japan — a defense and economic partner whose aid bolsters the nation’s maritime capacity — what value is there in the PNP stirring unnecessary controversy at the risk of alienating foreign goodwill?

Rather than pursuing media frenzies over minor infractions, perhaps the PNP could focus on cleaning its ranks. For now, the real crime here is making such a fuss over something so trivial.

At least someone found the uniform worthy of wearing. If it were most of the people I know and you task them to wear the PNP uniform to a party, they’d likely say “Yuck!”

*         *         *

SHORT BURSTS. For comments or reactions, email firingline@ymail.com or tweet @Side_View via X app (formerly Twitter). Read current and past issues of this column at http://www.thephilbiznews.com

At the heart of this year’s offerings is the ever-popular Richmonde Signature Ensaymadas, an indulgent Filipino holiday favorite. Big, buttery, and generously topped with cheese, these fluffy ensaymadas come in three delicious variants: classic plain (P215), ube (P245), and the new mango cheese (P245). Also available are mini versions that come in boxes of four and nine—perfect for sharing or gifting.

Also making a sweet statement is Richmonde’s signature Chocolate Cake, a fudgy and moist creation that’s given a festive makeover with its holiday finishing. Available in three sizes (4” at P265, 6” at P625, and 8” at P755), this dessert can satisfy the cravings of chocolate lovers. For other irresistible choco options, there are also chewy Revel Bars (P420 for a box of 8) and Dark & White Chocolate Chip Cookies (P225 per pack), which are ideal for holiday munching.

For those with a hankering for more traditional local flavors, there are the Ube Macapuno Cheesecake (P215), a rich and creamy tribute to the well-loved ube and macapuno combination, and the savory Adobo Croissant (P225), a delightful fusion of French pastry and the familiar adobo. Other specialty breads include the Banana Walnut Bread (P395), and Cheese Pimiento Loaf (P295).

Adding a dash of nostalgia to the holidays are Richmonde’s delightfully crispy, chewy, and creamy Silvanas. Available in Classic Cashew and Chocnut flavors (P420 per pair), these treats will go well with a cup of steaming hot chocolate or brewed coffee.

For an all-in-one festive experience, Richmonde’s Holiday Hamper (P1,998) offers a curated selection of pastry items that includes the mango cheese ensaymada, adobo croissant, ube macapuno cheesecake, silvanas, assorted flavored crinkles, and Sampaguita polvoron. Each item reflects Filipino heritage and is carefully packed in a traditional buri box.

Richmonde Café also has delectable hearty platters designed for the season’s potluck parties and intimate gatherings. The Beef Barbecue Spareribs (P2,650), seasoned and slow cooked to tender perfection, and the scrumptious Salmon Wellington (P2,840), featuring quality Norwegian salmon encased in puff pastry with spinach and cheese, are both good for six to eight persons.

Visit Richmonde Hotel Ortigas’ Lobby Café to explore the display of holiday goodies or browse the complete catalogue on the hotel’s official Facebook page. All items are available for pickup or delivery until January 5, 2025, with a minimum 48-hour lead time for orders. For inquiries and orders, contact (632) 8638-7777, SMS/Viber (63) 917 534 4352, email fbsup@richmondeortigas.com, or message @Richmonde Hotel Ortigas on Facebook and Instagram.

Gather your loved ones and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at Cucina’s Yuletide Buffet, where a culinary winter wonderland awaits. Delight in roasted turkey, an array of festive international dishes, and decadent desserts—perfect for sharing joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments around the table.

For a more refined celebration, Lung Hin elevates the season with the Crystal Lantern Soirée and Jade Winter Banquet set menus. These exquisite dining experiences feature signature dishes like the Golden Roasted Goose and Baked Lobster, blending timeless flavors and elegant presentation for a feast to remember.

Relax and recharge at Connect Lounge with the Yuletide Afternoon Tea, a charming mix of sweet and savory delights served in a festive setting.

Then, welcome 2025 at Vu’s Sky Bar’s Sunrise to Stardust Countdown Party, offering breathtaking city views, live music, and expertly crafted cocktails—your perfect backdrop to toast the New Year in style.

Take home the spirit of Christmas with Hotel Hampers, brimming with carefully chosen holiday treats. Complete your celebration with Café Pronto’s White Chocolate Cranberry Cheesecake, an irresistible blend of creamy white chocolate bavaroise, tart cranberries, and a nutty almond-coconut base—an unforgettable centerpiece for your festive table.

This holiday season, let Marco Polo Ortigas Manila brighten your celebrations with unforgettable experiences, indulgent flavors, and heartwarming moments.

Discover more and book your perfect festive getaway at https://bit.ly/WinterCampaign2024.

For details on our Yuletide offerings, access the e-brochure at https://bit.ly/MPOMWhiteChristmas.

On November 25, Discovery Suites Manila officially started its holiday celebration by lighting up the 25-foot Christmas tree in one of the tallest hotels in Ortigas Center.

Known for its world-class Filipino hospitality brand since 2000, the hotel had its early Christmas “jubilations” for the following reasons, according to hotel manager Carlo Cruz:

1. Celebration of its silver anniversary

Discovery Suites Manila will celebrate its 25 years in February 2025. With the blend of its brand colors and silver hues, the Christmas tree reflects the nearing anniversary of the hotel’s foundation. It also represents their beloved guests’ unforgettable memories of exceptional service and cherished moments.

As the year 2025 nears, guests hope to discover more silver linings with Discovery Suites.

2. Unwavering support of loyal guests, partners, and friends

“For nearly 25 years, you have welcomed us to your lives, being part of your celebrations, milestones, and memories,” said Cruz during his remarks.

Located at the heart of the Ortigas business district, Discovery Suites is a perfect place for long-term stay of business leaders and tourists.

Recently, the hotel recently garnered the Extended Stay Hotel of the Year-Philippines last November 26. Held in Singapore, this award was given by Travel Daily Media (TDM) Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2024 for Asia, recognizing Discover Suites’ dedication to being a “home away from home” to their guests.

3. To create more stories of heartfelt service

From a stay in any of its 220-serviced apartment suites to its multi-awarded 22 Prime, Discovery Suites provides top-notch service and experience – a perfect treat this holiday season.

Have a date night, or treat your loved ones to Unlisteak All Day at 22 Prime promo. For only PHP 2,950+ per person for three hours, indulge in a limitless USDA ribeye steak.

Looking ahead, it was also found that Discovery Suites offers a promising future as Discovery Hospitality’s Kip & Kin brand is expected to open in Siargao next year, following its first location in El Nido.

“Your trust, patronage, and love for the brand have been our guiding light through every challenge, allowing us to not just survive, but thrive because of you,” Cruz said.

Marking a momentous milestone as the largest hotel in the Philippines with 1,530 room keys, Grand Westside Hotel officially welcomed the holiday season on November 21 with the enchanting lighting of its very first Christmas tree.

The festive event ignited a yuletide journey, embracing the joy of “being home with loved ones” in every heartfelt detail.

General Manager Joe Fijardo shared how the beauty of the Philippines shines through its early celebration of the Christmas spirit. “The holiday season is all about creating cherished memories,” he said. “No matter where life takes you, home is where you truly belong.”

Fijardo also emphasized the hotel’s commitment to making every guest feel comfortable and valued. “This festive season, we’re dedicated to creating experiences that feel like home. Together, let’s enjoy the magic of this beautiful time of year,” he added.

While this marks the first time Westside City’s Christmas tree has illuminated the season, the essence of “home” transcends the walls and dazzling décor. At Grand Westside Hotel, Christmas isn’t just a celebration—it’s a heartfelt reminder that love and togetherness make any place feel like home.

Discover the warmth, joy, and magic of the holidays at Grand Westside Hotel, where every stay is a celebration of family, love, and unforgettable moments.

The following are its grand holiday treats just for you:

A Yuletide staycation allows you to have a splendid stay with your loved ones for a holiday stay inside Grand Westside Hotel’s well-appointed rooms and experience a gastronomic feast at Café by Westside. Packages start at Php 8,888 nett for stays on December 24 – 25, 2024 inclusive of breakfast and a special Christmas Eve Dinner for 2.

The Grand 2025 welcome gets you the best view welcoming 2025 while having a rejuvenating, blissful holiday. Enjoy an indulgent spread of international flavors at Café by Westside and prepare for a memorable celebration as we welcome another year.

New Year’s Eve Package starts at Php 14,388 nett for stays from December 31, 2024 – January 1, 2025 inclusive of breakfast and New Year’s Eve Dinner for 2, and 2 tickets to the Grand Westside Ball Drop at The Fifth, New Year’s Eve Countdown Party.

Gastronomic holiday at Café by Westside is meant for you and your family. Christmas Eve Festivities is set at Php 2,498 per person on December 24, 2024, and Welcome 2025 in Grandeur is set at Php 2,988 per person on December 31, 2024.

The Grand Westside Ball Drop at the 25^th starts with a countdown party to welcome the new year. Join the iconic ball drop when the clock strikes midnight at Php 2,598 nett per person.

Bring Grand West home by giving loved ones the perfect gift of sweet and decadent holiday selection specially curated for you. The holiday hampers start at Php 3,500 nett.

The festive spirit came alive at Conrad Manila as it kicked off the Christmas season with a dazzling tree-lighting ceremony on November 12. The hotel’s grand lobby was bathed in warm, twinkling lights, exuding the magic of the holidays, while the melodious strains of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Exsultate, Jubilate and Antonio Vivaldi’s Winter—performed by the Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra—filled the air. Families, dignitaries, and guests gathered under the towering stand of white Christmas trees, creating a heartwarming ambiance of love, joy, and togetherness.

Fabio Berto, Conrad Manila’s General Manager, welcomed guests with heartfelt remarks, emphasizing the hotel’s commitment to being a haven for cherished moments this season. “Conrad Manila embodies the essence of ‘home,’ where familial bonds and festive celebrations come alive,” Berto said. “As we revel in the joys of Christmas, may we find deeper purpose in the spirit of giving.”

Festive offerings to delight every family

Conrad Manila invites families to create unforgettable memories this holiday season with a wide range of activities, indulgent feasts, and thoughtfully curated treats. Here’s what awaits:

Feasts for the Holidays

• Brasserie on 3 (3rd level, contact details: +639176503591)

Celebrate with festive buffets featuring holiday classics and comforting dishes:

• Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet: PHP 4,500 nett
• Christmas Day Buffet: PHP 4,500 nett (lunch or dinner)
• New Year’s Eve Dinner Buffet: PHP 5,000 nett (bay view) or PHP 4,700 nett (indoor seating)
• New Year’s Day Buffet: PHP 2,900 nett (lunch) or PHP 3,200 nett (dinner)

• China Blue by Jereme Leung (3rd level, contact details: melgarrido@conradhotels.com, +639176503747)

Indulge in an elevated dining experience with special set menus for Christmas and New Year, perfect for gatherings of up to 10 people at PHP 49,800 nett.

• C Lounge (3rd level, contact details: +639176503747)

Enjoy the elegant Festive High Tea Set for two, paired with coffee or tea, at PHP 2,888++.

• Bru Coffee Bar (Ground floor, contact details: +639178205802)

Choose from artisanal hampers like the Parol (PHP 6,888 nett), Belen (PHP 9,888 nett), and Navidad (PHP 12,888 nett), or bring home a Gingerbread House at PHP 558 nett.

Exclusive experiences

• Christmas comforts staycation (contact details:conrad.manila.reservations2@conradhotels.com or +63 2 8833 999)

An overnight stay in a Deluxe City View room includes dinner and breakfast for two, priced at PHP 17,500 nett. Available for stays from November 15 to December 29, 2024.

• New Year’s Rock N’ Roll Countdown Party (contact details:+63176503747)

Welcome 2025 in style! Walk-ins are welcome at PHP 1,988++ per person, or enjoy exclusive dining packages at Brasserie on 3 and China Blue. Reserve tables with minimum spend options starting at PHP 23,888++.

• Cuddly Companion
  Take home the hotel’s Limited Edition Christmas Carey Carabao, a charming holiday memento for PHP 558 nett.

The spirit of giving and togetherness

As the night of the lighting ceremony concluded, the warmth of the celebration lingered, reminding all who attended of the true spirit of Christmas: love, kindness, and togetherness.

Whether it’s a festive meal, a luxurious staycation, or a thoughtful gift, Conrad Manila offers countless ways to make this holiday season special. Create timeless memories with your loved ones and embrace the magic of Christmas at Conrad Manila, where every moment feels like home.

For reservations and inquiries, contact conradmanila@conradhotels.com or visit eatdrinkhilton.com.