Seda Ayala Center Cebu officially welcomed the holiday season with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 19, 2025, celebrating this year’s theme, “The Joy That Brings Us Together,” a theme celebrated by the Seda Hotels group nationwide.
Tree Lighting Message of hope, joy and togetherness by Gwen Dela Cruz
The evening opened with a heartfelt message from Seda Ayala Center Cebu’s General Manager Ms. Gwen Dela Cruz, who dedicated the celebration to communities affected by the recent earthquake and typhoon. “Even in the most difficult of times, there is always a hidden blessing and a Light that shines,” she shared, as the hotel’s iconic Christmas Tree—lit annually since 2018—illuminated the lobby with symbols of hope, peace, and joy.
Tree of Joy lighted by (L-R) Seda Ayala Center Cebu’s Financial Controller Ruben Bancaya, AyalaLand Hospitality’s Head of Marketing and Commercial Roshan Nandwani, Cluster General Manager Gwen Dela Cruz, and Director of Human Resources Bobot Codoy.
The Celestial Voices ushered in the tunes for the lighting of the Tree of Joy. The ceremony was led by Seda Ayala Center Cebu’s General Manager Gwen Dela Cruz, AyalaLand Hospitality’s Head of Marketing and Commercial Roshan Nandwani, Director of Sales Valerie Ann Frias, Financial Controller Ruben Bancaya, and Director of Human Resources Bobot Codoy.
A festive holiday reception followed at the Sampaguita Ballroom, where more tunes, stories, and a holiday feast were served. In her welcome remarks, Ms. Dela Cruz highlighted the importance of reflection, kindness, and unity during the season, adding, “Christmas is truly meaningful when we give the light of love to those who need it most.”
Smile Train as partner community of Seda Ayala Center Cebu for the past 7 years
Continuing its commitment to community upliftment, Seda Ayala Center Cebu reaffirmed its long-standing support for Smile Train and Gasa sa Gugma, two partner organizations that provide life-changing cleft surgeries for children and compassionate care for indigent elderly residents, respectively.
Director of Sales Valerie Ann Firas and Sales Manager Jason Cabuguas sharing Holiday treats that await at Seda Ayala Center Cebu
Seda Ayala Center Cebu’s Holiday Deals were also presented—from Festive Stay packages to holiday dining at Misto. The Christmas Eve Stay and New Year’s Eve Stay Packages feature festive dinner buffets and options that include access to the hotel’s much-awaited New Year’s Countdown Celebration.
“One of the things we’re truly proud of is our artisanal Seda Ham—crafted in-house by our own chefs, using the finest cuts and a special recipe,” shared Director of Sales Valerie Ann Frias.
Friends from the Media
ICanServe Foundation Public Information Officer Ms. Ron Bernabe with RMA News President Robby Alugar
And because Christmas is best celebrated around the table, guests can look forward to Holiday Buffets at Misto on Christmas and New Year’s Day. To welcome 2026, Seda invites everyone to the Countdown to 2026 in the Grand Ballroom—an evening filled with cocktails, charcuterie, live music, and a joyful toast to new beginnings.
AyalaLand Hospitality’s Head of Marketing and Commercial Roshan Nandwani sharing ALH’s Christmas Message
Roshan Nandwani, AyalaLand Hospitality Head of Marketing and Commercial delivered a Christmas message on behalf of the ALH group. “Thank you for welcoming us into your days, your celebrations, and now your Christmas. Your strength and spirit remind us why community will always be at the heart of who we are” she shared. With hearts full and lights shining bright, Seda Ayala Center Cebu ushers in the holiday season with gratitude, compassion, and the joy that brings the community together.
Malipayong Pasko!
