CABANATUAN CITY – “The magic of Christmas stays to bring people to their families and friends.”
Thus, enthused Marvin Mauro Magtoto, assistant mall manager of SM City Cabanatuan at the lighting of the mall’s Christmas centerpiece this year.
Magtoto said they opted to launch the centerpiece in a rather simple lighting ceremony due to the effect of Typhoons Kristine and Leon, a far cry from colorful rites that included performances and speeches in previous years.
“Para siyempre makapagbigay pa rin ng saya, ng bagong pag-asa, ng hope sa ating mga kababayan, sa mga Novo Ecijano,” he said.
The centerpiece located at the ground floor features a 35-foot Christmas tree adorned with glistening lights, complemented by a 15-foot Santa Claus riding a plane “poised to embark on an exhilarating journey.”
Surrounding them are representations of Santas from around the world, alongside Christmas trees of different heights and an abundance of holiday presents, each showcasing the unique culture and heartwarming celebrations of the season.
“So, ang theme natin ngayon nandiyan si Santa Claus with the airplane to take us on a magical trip saka i-remind pa rin tayo na nandiyan pa rin ‘yung magic ng Christmas sa bawat corner,” he said.
“Dadalhin tayo sa destinations kung nasaan ‘yung family natin, friends, especially dito sa SM City Cabanatuan,” Magtoto added, noting that the mall has been one of the Christmas destinations in Nueva Ecija. Photos: Armand Galang