Pico de Loro Cove marked the beginning of the holiday season with a meaningful Christmas tree lighting ceremony that brought together members, guests, and friends from the media. The event was attended by key executives including Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club Chairwoman Elizabeth T. Sy, President Rita Dy, SM Leisure & Resort Residences Business Unit Head Shirley Ong, Head of Design and Planning Harvey Sy, Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club and Pico Sands Hotel General Manager Maxi Gavino, SM Hotels & Conventions Corp. Executive Vice President Peggy Angeles, and Senior Vice President for Operations Cathy Nepomuceno.
A Celebration of Light and Sustainability
General Manager Maxi Gavino welcomed guests with an inspiring message that captured the spirit of the season. “This year, our theme — #FeelTheHolidaySparkle — invites us to rediscover the beauty that shines when we nurture what truly matters. Our inspiration comes from the mangroves, nature’s quiet protectors that bring life and light to our surroundings. When mangroves thrive, they become home to fireflies — tiny sparks that illuminate the night, reminding us that even the smallest lights can create something truly wondrous together.”
This year’s theme highlighted the property’s advocacy for marine protection and environmental sustainability. In line with this, all Christmas trees around the cove were decorated with eco-friendly materials, demonstrating Pico de Loro’s ongoing efforts to integrate sustainable practices in its celebrations and operations.
Eco-Friendly Craftsmanship
The transformation of Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club and Pico Sands Hotel into a festive holiday destination was spearheaded by the CRAFTmas team. The team, led by Housekeeping Manager Renante Navarro and Housekeeping Supervisor for Sustainability and Decorations Florencio Garcia, was supported by Housekeeping and Public Area Attendants Cyrus Tito, Mervin Gonzales, Rogie Mendoza, Jeff Montealegre, John Erick Lazarte, Arvin Demora, and John Aaron Sadiasa.
Their creativity and commitment brought months of planning to life through unique holiday decorations crafted from upcycled and locally sourced materials. The team made use of wood scraps, foxtail palm twigs, Talisay fruit, acacia seeds, mangrove branches, mud crabs, and driftwood centerpieces. Each piece was carefully designed to reflect both artistry and environmental consciousness, turning the property into a display of sustainable holiday charm.
Messages of Joy and Togetherness
Pico de Loro Beach & Country Club President Rita Dy expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for the season. She shared, “the Club has laid out a full calendar of things to do throughout this holiday season and throughout the year, for us to have a fun good time right here at the cove.” She also encouraged guests to join the Eco-Mangrove Tour to connect more deeply with the year’s theme and later invited everyone to the New Year’s Eve Countdown Party titled Jungle Jive on December 31.
SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation Senior Vice President for Operations Cathy Nepomuceno also shared a message highlighting Pico de Loro’s commitment to continuous improvement and hospitality. She said, “Pico de Loro has always been a sanctuary where families connect, friendships grow, and memories take root. And as we continue this journey together, we look forward to unveiling exciting enhancements across the property—from the refreshed Lagoa opening this December 12, Grab & Go to soon offer We Proudly Serve Starbucks coffee, to the reimagined Club Pico for our young explorers to enjoy. All these efforts reflect our commitment to creating experiences that are warm, meaningful, and inspired by the spirit of hospitality we value deeply at SMHCC.”
Music, Flavor, and Festive Spirit
Guests were serenaded by soprano duo The Nightingales, whose performance filled the evening with elegance and warmth. Children enjoyed the presence of Pico de Loro’s beloved mascots, Picoy the Parrot and Tiny the Turtle, who brought extra cheer to the celebration.
Adding to the night’s excitement was a special preview of the menu from the soon-to-open Lagoa Restaurant. The dishes were curated by Chef Leah Magallanes, Chef Jayme Natividad, and the Pico de Loro culinary team, offering guests a taste of what’s to come at the resort’s newest dining destination.
A Symbol of Hope and Creativity
The Christmas tree at Pico de Loro Cove now stands as a radiant symbol of the season. It represents not only the creativity and hard work of the team behind it but also the values that Pico de Loro upholds—sustainability, community, and celebration of nature’s beauty.
The lighting ceremony set the tone for the holidays at Pico de Loro Cove, where guests can enjoy meaningful experiences surrounded by nature, artistry, and genuine Filipino hospitality. Through its eco-conscious approach and festive spirit, Pico de Loro continues to inspire guests to celebrate the season with purpose and joy.
