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Cebu City, Philippines — November 28, 2025 —Marco Polo Plaza Cebu officially welcomed the festive season with its annual Lighting of Traditions, a signature event that has become a cherished moment for the Cebuano community. This year’s celebration, themed “Intertwined Traditions – Paskuhan Above the City,” highlighted the strength of Cebuano ties and the enduring spirit of togetherness that continues to shine even through a challenging year.The event gathered hotel partners, corporate clients, media, and families for an evening that honored Cebu’s unique blend of tradition, resilience, and warmth. The theme underscored how the shared experiences, values, and cultural practices of Cebuanos are woven together—forming a strong fabric of community and hope.
The ceremony opened with a captivating performance by the Fidelis Choir, whose harmonies filled the lobby with timeless Christmas carols, setting a tone of reflection and celebration. Guests were also delighted by the special appearance of Mr. and Mrs. Santa, who spread joy among children and families, adding a nostalgic touch to the evening.
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A central highlight of the annual tradition is Marco Polo Plaza Cebu’s Tree of Hope, now on its latest year of partnership with the GMA Kapuso Foundation. Guests were invited to donate and hang symbolic Christmas balls on the tree, each representing a message of support for communities in need. The Tree of Hope once again served not only as a festive display but also as a reminder of the power of collective generosity and the Cebuano spirit of bayanihan.
In addition to the ceremonial lighting, the hotel unveiled its holiday offerings, including the Festive Season Buffet at Café Marco, a lavish celebration of flavors that bring families together during the holidays. Guests may also enjoy Festive Takeaways, a curated selection of holiday favorites and party trays perfect for gatherings at home. Complementing these offerings is the hotel’s Christmas Store, featuring handcrafted pastries, signature treats, and giftable holiday items available both on-site and online via the official store: https://store-cebu.marcopolohotels.com/en/index/.
As the Christmas tree illuminated the skyline above Cebu, the evening stood as a testament to the city’s resilience and unity. Through music, tradition, and shared celebration, Lighting of Traditions: Intertwined Traditions – Paskuhan Above the City reaffirmed Marco Polo Plaza Cebu’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections and elevating the holiday experience for the community.
About Marco Polo Plaza Cebu
Perched atop Cebu’s prestigious Nivel Hills, Marco Polo Plaza Cebu is a luxury urban resort offering panoramic views of the city, mountains, and sea. Known for its blend of world-class service and warm Cebuano hospitality, the hotel features 328 well-appointed guest rooms and suites, award-winning dining outlets, and state-of-the-art event facilities. Marco Polo Plaza Cebu remains a landmark of elevated stays, celebrated cuisine, and meaningful experiences in the heart of the Queen City of the South.
About Marco Polo Hotels
Marco Polo Hotels’ premium hotels in Hong Kong SAR, Mainland China and the Philippines reflect the adventurous ethos of their namesake – Marco Polo. Located in key destinations, each property is active in their community, committed to sustainability, and a central hub for gatherings and meaningful local experiences. The brand is part of Wharf Hotels’ portfolio and a member of Global Hotel Alliance, the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands. Visit marcopolohotels.com, Instagram or LinkedIn.
About Wharf Hotels
Hong Kong SAR-based Wharf Hotels, a hospitality group and subsidiary of The Wharf (Holdings) Limited, owns and/or operates 16 hotels in Hong Kong SAR, Mainland China and the Philippines across three brands – Maqo, Marco Polo Hotels and Niccolo Hotels. Collectively, the portfolio offers more than 5,000 guestrooms, meeting spaces and crafted experiences for solo and group travellers in gateway cities. Visit wharfhotels.com or LinkedIn.
About GHA and GHA DISCOVERY
Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) is the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands with 50 brands and over 950 hotels in 100 countries. Its award-winning loyalty programme – GHA DISCOVERY – provides 34 million members with recognition, D$ rewards and exclusive experiences across its hotels and partners, both with and without a stay. GHA DISCOVERY generated US$2.7 billion in member hotel revenue and 11 million room nights in 2024. Through membership in GHA, brands expand their global reach, drive incremental revenue and reduce dependence on third-party channels, all while maintaining management independence and individual positioning.
For more information, visit globalhotelalliance.com or ghadiscovery.com.
