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Since I was a child, as soon as June approaches, I feel thrilled because it's my birth month. I don't eagerly anticipate gifts, but rather the greetings from family and friends. It brings me joy. I am easily pleased. It doesn't take much to make me happy. Whenever I am asked what I want for my birthday, my usual response is "nothing" or "I don't know; I can't think of anything I want or need." I am not materialistic. I am happy. I am healthy. I am blessed with family and true friends. Feeling ko nasa akin na ang lahat and I prefer inner peace. Fancy that! Haha. I find more joy in giving, whether to family, friends, or even strangers. But this time, I said, "Lord, can I give myself a gift this time?" Since a retreat in Batulao is not possible yet, I scheduled a day for myself for a pampering session at the mall. I want to have a massage, facial, manicure/pedicure. I simply wish to unwind and disconnect from the online world for an entire...

The Great Yule-Pine Christmas: A Magical Evening at SM City East Ortigas

A Season of Light Begins 

SM is celebrating 12 weeks of iconic Christmas this year, and the festivities officially kicked off at SM City East Ortigas last October 23. The community gathered for the much-anticipated tree lighting ceremony, an evening filled with storytelling, music, and heartwarming moments that truly captured the spirit of the season.

The Great Yule-Pine Christmas

The program unveiled like a beautifully told fairy tale. Deep within the enchanted Yule-Pine Forest, something precious had happened. The star atop the great tree had faded, and the magical Christmas light lost its glow. But hope was far from gone. 

Forest Fairy and Eyo

We followed the journey of Eyo, the Forest Prince, who set out on a grand quest across the woods to find Yule, the Spirit of Christmas, and restore the season's magic. He soon learned he could not do it alone. To revive the faded star and bring light back to the magnificent Yule-Pine Tree, Eyo needed to seek out the three magical forces of the forest. Those forces are Hope, Love, and Wishes.

Each element represented a special spark that would help awaken the Spirit of Christmas, and every one of them came alive through the performances that evening. 

The celebration was officially opened by Ms. Aimee Ramirez, Mall Manager of SM City East Ortigas. Her warm welcome set the tone for an unforgettable night.

A Night of Wonder

The story unfolded through breathtaking performances that brought the forest's magic to life:

 DCore Dancers • The Butterflies of Hope

DCore Dancers 

High above the treetops, a swarm of glowing golden butterflies emerged, bearing a message of hope. Their light guided Eyo as he took his very first steps toward rediscovering the true spirit of Christmas.

 NU Chorale • The Voices of Christmas

Nova Solaria of National University East Ortigas chorale

Guided by the butterflies' light, Eyo entered a serene woodland glade filled with heavenly harmony. Through song, he learned a beautiful lesson. The true spirit of Christmas lives in kindness, togetherness, and the love we share with one another. 

 DCore Dancers • The Lantern Keepers

With love in his heart, Eyo followed a shimmering trail of floating lanterns. Each one held the precious wishes and dreams of children and families everywhere, bringing him one step closer to restoring the forest's light.

When Hope, Love, and Wishes finally came together, the magic reached its peak. Every voice, every dance, and every glowing lantern converged. The moment had arrived. With all three magical forces united, Eyo channeled their energy into the great tree. The forest awakened, and The Great Yule-Pine burst into brilliant, dazzling light, transforming the space into a wondrous Christmas wonderland. 

The evening continued with a visit from Santa Claus himself, spreading joy and gifts to the delight of every child in attendance. It was a beautiful reminder that when hope, love, and wishes come together, even the darkest places are filled with light. 

Share the Magic: Besties of Joy 2026

Beyond the festivities, the evening also highlighted a truly heartwarming initiative. SM Besties of Joy 2026 is an annual holiday giving campaign that turns a simple purchase into two moments of joy. In partnership with Toy Kingdom and ambassadors from the SM Super Pets Club, including Maki, Matty, Sasha, and Sera, the campaign invites everyone to share the magic of friendship this season.

For every Bestie of Joy pair purchased, one plush friend goes home with you, while the other is gifted to a child at St. Joseph Elementary School (SM East Ortigas' beneficiary partner). It is a beautiful tradition that connects communities through kindness, one friendship at a time. You can find the Besties of Joy booth on the Ground Level, Main Mall at SM City East Ortigas.

Come Experience the Magic Yourself

The Great Yule-Pine Christmas is waiting for you. Whether you are looking for that perfect holiday photo, a moment of wonder, or simply a place to feel the warmth of the season, the stunning centerpiece at SM City East Ortigas is ready to welcome you. 

Drop by soon, bring your loved ones, and see the magic in person. After all, the brightest light is the one we share together.

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