BAGUIO CITY — The local community came together on November 15 as Sotogrande Hotel Baguio hosted its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, an event that has become a seasonal gathering point for guests, partners, and city leaders. This year’s celebration highlighted unity, shared traditions, and the continued collaboration between the city’s tourism sector and the wider Baguio community.
General Manager Ella Delos Santos led the ceremony, joined by city officials and partners from the Sta. Lucia Group. Among the attendees were Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Sta. Lucia Land Inc. executive Liberato Robles, and Carlo Librea of Enderun Hotels. Guests from the local travel, media, and business communities also took part in the program, which featured live music performances, curated dishes, and a champagne toast.
In her message, Delos Santos underscored the spirit of togetherness embraced by the community during the holidays, saying, “Tonight, we are not simply lighting a tree — we are reaffirming the values that make the Christmas season meaningful: hope, unity, and the spirit of togetherness.”
The event’s theme, “A Timeless Holiday Glow,” was reflected in the green, nature-inspired Christmas tree displayed at the lobby. Food and Beverage Director Juan Moises shared that the design pays tribute to Baguio’s natural landscape, explaining its shift from last year’s sustainability-focused concept. “Last year kasi sustainability ang theme, promoting local and native products,” he said. “Ngayon, ang pinapakita naman natin ay ang beauty of nature, kaya kulay green ang tema. Gusto naming ipromote ang Baguio, ang mga puno, at ang kalikasan.”
Local flavors also took the spotlight during the celebration. Head Chef Roanne Gines said the menu was crafted to highlight regional ingredients and familiar dishes. “Of course, we wanted to promote local dishes,” Gines said. “Mapapansin niyo, meron tayong infused local meats like kiniing, and comforting food such as pork ribs.”
Now in its third year of operations, Sotogrande Hotel Baguio continues to participate in the city’s holiday culture by hosting events that welcome both locals and visitors. This year’s Christmas Tree Lighting marks the start of its festive calendar and its ongoing engagement with the wider Baguio community throughout the season.
