Manila, March 2, 2026… It all began in December 2025, when Ascott Makati partnered with Best Buddies Philippines with a shared goal of bringing joy to children in need. In line with its festive Christmas theme, Merry, Blush and Bright—a commitment to giving back to the community—Ascott Makati launched Project Blush and Bright: A Christmas Gift Drive in support of San Lorenzo Ruiz Elementary School.

Best Buddies Philippines is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in the Philippines. It has been serving for 12 years under the leadership of its Executive Director, Michelle Aventajado, creating an environment where they can find meaningful friendships, live in a more inclusive world and have a more sustainable future. San Lorenzo Ruiz Elementary School is one of the certified Special Education (SPED) schools in the country with whom Best Buddies Philippines continuously works with to create programs for individuals with disabilities.

Last Christmas, students at San Lorenzo Ruiz Elementary School were invited to submit a wish list sharing their top three Christmas wishes. These wish lists were displayed in the lobby of Ascott Makati, where an outpouring of generosity soon followed. Guests eagerly selected wish lists and fulfilled at least one wish each. The children’s requests were simple and heartfelt—art supplies, clothing, books, and toys. In response, guests thoughtfully purchased, wrapped, and personally dropped off the gifts in the lobby. Ascott Makati employees helped launch the gift-giving initiative by presenting the first batch of donations during the serviced apartment’s Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony.

By the end of Three Kings, 81 students from San Lorenzo Ruiz Elementary School had their wishes granted.

The initiative culminated in a special turnover ceremony held last February. The CARES team of Ascott Makati visited San Lorenzo Ruiz Elementary School in Pasig, bringing not only the collected gifts but also a morning filled with fun and entertainment. With the support of Best Buddies Philippines, a lively program was organized, featuring parlor games, the formal turnover of gifts, and a shared lunch with the students. More than simply presenting the donations, the event marked a heartfelt conclusion to the holiday season of giving.

The collaboration marks another milestone in the growing partnership between Ascott Makati and Best Buddies Philippines, with more impactful initiatives on the horizon. Ascott Makati remains committed to its advocacy of helping build a more inclusive world, while Best Buddies Philippines continues to advance inclusion and raise awareness through collaborative partnerships with businesses, schools and organizations alike.

This initiative was also held undr Ascott CARES, the sustainability programme of Ascott Makati, which is anchored on five key pillars: Community, Alliance, Respect, Environment, and Supply Chain.