A unique Filipino Christmas at Hilton

Hilton Manila paid homage to the Filipino people by launching its Christmas campaign #PinoyMunaTayo

In a special gesture of solidarity, Hilton Manila paid homage to the Filipino people by launching its Christmas campaign #PinasMunaTayo.

The so-called “home of light and warm hospitality” is giving back to a nation that is famed for its own hospitality and which this year had been subject to a battery of disasters.

“What a year we’ve had,” noted general manager Simon McGrath during Hilton Manila’s Christmas tree lighting aired via Facebook on Nov. 17. “We’ve started the year with a volcano (eruption) followed by a pandemic then recently typhoons. I have to say, sadly, it’s probably been the most difficult year of many of our lives.”

“This year, we celebrate a truly uniquely Filipino Christmas supporting local and homegrown products to contribute to the Philippines’ economy, make a difference in local communities, and make new memories for all of you under the theme of #PinasMunaTayo. The festive season is upon us and we’re not gonna let the pandemic dampen that,” McGrath further said.

This year, Hilton unveiled “A Unique Filipino Christmas” with a Christmas tree that offers a warm comforting familiarity. It has been embellished with Christmas leaves, berries and flowers shimmering with red and silver glitters. All the trinkets were accentuated by native Capiz ball string lights and making it undeniably local is the red parol resting on top of it. Hilton Manila sees it as “a symbol of celebration, hope and optimism.”

Beyond the tree, other elements further emphasize the hotel’s commitment to Filipino culture.

Executive chef Benoit Chargy explained how the gastronomy followed the theme, beginning with the life-sized Gingerbread House which he explained to be “indeed edible from the roof down to the floor.”

“This giant confection is actually a one-stop gift shop brimming with a medley of locally inspired delights, homemade Christmas goodies and pastries,” he explained.

The Christmas hampers were Filipinized, too. Each one contains native treats and delicacies sourced from Sorsogon, making them not only helpful to the economy but also “the perfect gift to your family, friends and loved ones.” Kusina Sea Kitchens, which had opened since June, will now highlight a Filipino menu of ocean-fresh seafood and Christmas staples. The hotel also crafted a “Bring Hilton Home Menu” of oven-baked and MSG-free lechon, whole roasted turkey, US angus prime rib and smoked leg of ham, available for delivery, pickup and takeaway.

McGrath further emphasized Hilton Manila’s adherence to the international chain’s CleanStay cleaning and disinfection standards, alongside government health protocols. The hotel added “some great quirks” for the new normal, too, including having cocktail mixers on room service.

In keeping with the bayanihan spirit, Hilton Manila did not forget to implement its “Travel With A Purpose” project this year to help the Pasay City Community and Development Center. When guests buy a Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer stuffed toy from the Madison Lounge and Bar, proceeds directly benefit the children at the center.

With all these in place, Hilton Manila truly ensures to provide worthwhile revelries for its big family, the Filipino people.

“Christmas is and always has been about family and, to many of you this year, I know that you will embrace it more than ever,” McGrath said.