Marriott officially welcomed the festive season with their Tree-Lighting Ceremony held on November 12, 2013. The focal point of the event was the life-size train made of gingerbread parked in the hotel lobby, which was very fitting for photo souvenirs, and was filled with gingerbread treats. The distinguished guests who officially lit the Christmas Tree were child patients from the Philippine Children’s Medical Center, the beneficiary of Marriott’s Spirit to Serve initiative this season. Amidst all the merriment, Marriott Manila continued to exercise their corporate social responsibility, introducing to the crowd the stuffed bears for sale at P400 each. Beginning that day until December 2013, the cuddly toys are available for purchase and proceeds will be used to purchase oxygen tanks for the cancer-stricken children.
Shown in photo is Marriott Hotel Manila General Manager Bruce Winton (left, in orange tie) together with the kids from the Philippine Children’s Medical Center, gathering around Santa Claus by the newly-lit Christmas Tree.