The holiday season at Balai Punta Engaño came alive with warmth, music, and the gentle glow of festive lights as the community gathered for the “Light Begins at Balai” event. Guests were welcomed into a space where design, seaside serenity, and the spirit of togetherness converged. Light snacks and refreshments set the tone for an afternoon meant to celebrate more than just the season—it was a celebration of hope, connection, and shared joy.
The program opened with a heartfelt welcome, inviting everyone to pause and reflect on the beauty of community and the promise of the holidays. Every detail emphasized Balai’s philosophy: spaces built with purpose, and communities designed to spark meaningful connections.
To lift spirits and set a festive mood, the Sta. Cecilia Choir performed, their harmonies filling the space with warmth and anticipation. Following this, a Blessing Ceremony took place, led by Rev. Fr. Fernando Sotto Jr. , who walked through the property and show units in a solemn yet uplifting procession. The blessing was more than a ritual—it was an invocation of gratitude, hope, and light, reflecting the values upon which Balai Punta Engaño was built. Guests were encouraged to witness the blessing with reverence, feeling the peaceful ambiance that echoed through every corner.
After the blessing, Ms. Keithlyn Rubio, Head of Sales, shared an inspiring message about the spirit of Christmas and the importance of carrying hope and kindness into the new year. Her words seamlessly led to the highlight of the afternoon—the lighting of the Balai Punta Engaño Christmas Tree.
This year’s tree, a centerpiece of artistry and sustainability, embodied The BE Group’s sustainability campaign, “BE The Spark: Shine with Hope.” Each element was thoughtfully crafted to reflect Mactan’s natural beauty and the community’s commitment to mindful creation. Ms. Jacquiline Brabante, Marketing and Leasing Services Manager, shared the story behind the tree, highlighting how even the smallest spark can illuminate lives and strengthen bonds within the community.
The Christmas Tree itself is a testament to creativity, sustainability, and heritage. Constructed from retired headboards sourced from Bohol, its panels were adorned with arorog and traditional caning, weaving heritage and environmental consciousness into every detail. Jellyfish-inspired forms made from repurposed sanding molds and rattan strips danced gently, while local shells punctuated the design, symbolizing the community and island life. This Tree of Life and Wonder not only glowed with festive light but also reflected the extraordinary potential that arises from thoughtful design and intentionality.
The celebration unfolded into the closing remarks of Mr. Giles Benedicto, Associate Director for Corporate Finance, whose heartfelt message ,spoke of gratitude, community, and the shared vision of creating spaces where families can grow, thrive, and feel at home. His words grounded the afternoon in purpose and reminded everyone of Balai Punta Engaño’s mission to nurture connection and meaningful living.
Following his message, guests participated in the Coin Toss Ceremony, sending coins into a symbolic bag along with hopes for prosperity, health, and joy in the year ahead. Each coin represented a spark of hope, collectively brightening the Balai community through shared intentions.
The event continued with an invitation for guests to explore the property, capture memories at the Christmas Tree, and visit the thoughtfully designed show units. The afternoon emphasized the harmony of city convenience and seaside serenity, the glow of intentional design, and the joy of belonging to a community that cherishes hope and connection.
“Light truly begins at Balai,” the gathering reminded all who attended. It was a celebration of creativity, gratitude, and the extraordinary possibilities that emerge when intention meets heart. From the careful craftsmanship of the Christmas Tree to the shared laughter and smiles, the event left a lasting impression: even the smallest spark, when nurtured, can shine brightly across a community.
Balai Punta Engaño welcomed everyone home, where light, hope, and connection guide each day—and where the spirit of the season continues to shine long after the last lights flicker.
