Somerset Alabang Manila held its Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony last November 26, 2025, unveiling a Mayon Volcano-inspired tree anchored on the element of Fire. This year marks the culmination of a four-year creative journey themed around the elements of nature: From Air in 2022 to Water in 2023, Earth in 2024, and now, Fire, symbolizing connection, compassion, and community.

The property infused cultural storytelling and sustainability into every detail of the Christmas tree design, drawing inspiration from Mt. Mayon and the historic Cagsawa Ruins in the province of Albay, Bicol. Cagsawa Ruins are the remnants of the 16th-century Cagsawa Church, destroyed and buried during the 1814 eruption of Mt. Volcano. Derived from the Bicolano word “magayon,” which means beautiful and is associated with the legend of Daragang Magayon, the design pays tribute to the natural wonders along the Pacific Ring of Fire, including majestic volcanoes and diverse landscapes.

Standing as the centerpiece of the whole art installation, the Christmas tree was a replica of Mt. Mayon, known for its near-perfect cone shape. Flowing from the peak of the Christmas tree are fabric drapes crafted to resemble

streams of lava, symbolizing strength and renewal. Surrounding the main tree are smaller gold rattan trees, handcrafted with repurposed materials, paired with rattan ornaments, old décor wrapped in fabric, and pieces created from PET bottles and recycled cardboard. Across the property’s lobby and ceiling are ornaments using leaves from last year’s handmade Christmas tree.

The TV cover and display are made of old cardboard and paper tissue rolls, further reinforcing the team’s commitment to sustainability and artistic reuse. The hand-built replica of Cagsawa Ruins was crafted using scrap wood, brick textures made from recycled cardboard, and moss and leaves repurposed from previous holiday decorations. Completing the scene was the church bell, creatively fashioned from an old metal refrigerant container, bringing authenticity and charm to the iconic landmark.

Somerset Alabang Manila’s Christmas Tree Inspired by Mayon Volcano and Cagsawa Ruins in Albay

 The evening was also a meaningful celebration of Somerset Alabang Manila’s commitment to give back to the community. The team partnered with Diversey for the “Soap for Hope” campaign that recycles discarded hotel soap bars into new and sanitized ones, which are then donated to communities in need or sold to fund community support programs.

Furthermore, the team celebrated the remarkable year of milestones and achievements. Somerset Alabang Manila’s Operations Manager Sandra Sangab-Moreno said: “One of our proudest moments was having the Ascott Cares Award during the South East Asia Leadership Conference, a recognition shared by all Ascott properties worldwide. This honor reflects the property’s  deep commitment to safety, care, sustainability, and the values that we uphold.”  Moreno also shared exciting plans for 2026, including the opening of Somerset Alabang Manila’s all-day dining restaurant, a café, and event spaces on the 5th level to host memorable celebrations.

The event was graced by Assistant Secretary of the Department of Tourism, Sharlene Batin, representatives from Filinvest City,  and The Ascott Limited Philippines’ executive management. Guests were taken to a showcase of aesthetic and sustainable Christmas decorations, a serenade by the  Philippine Institute for the Deaf choir, and a captivating performance by the Alab Poi dancers. The evening also featured a curated Bicolano-inspired food spread prepared by Chef Jeffrey Reyes, in collaboration with Citadines Bay City Manila.

Plan your holidays with friends and family at Somerset Alabang Manila, located in the vibrant Filinvest City in Alabang. More information about Somerset Alabang Manila  is available at https://www.discoverasr.com/en/somerset-serviced-residence/philippines/somerset-alabang-manila