From the vibrant décor to the holiday shopping craze, there are many reasons that make Filipinos flock to the malls when the Yuletide season kicks in. But at the Ayala Malls, there’s definitely more to the celebrations than the trimmings.
In the spirit of reigniting the tradition of song and playfulness, Ayala Malls hosts “Awit at Laro,” a project that celebrates music and culture by reintroducing traditional Filipino games to a new generation through music and the arts. The brainchild of Gary Valenciano and Bambi Mañosa, the project aims to raise funds for UNICEF, the Tukod Foundation and the Shining Light Foundation.
The “Awit at Laro” album features 10 reimagined traditional songs and 10 brand new songs about Filipino games that we’ve loved (and perhaps lost) in childhood. This Christmas will be the time to experience them again and share them with the younger ones through the uplifting tunes in collaboration with top Filipino composers and singers.
There will also be an “Awit at Laro” concert, which will tour 21 malls throughout the country during Christmas season, spreading the joy of music across the Philippines. Directed by Paolo Valenciano, it will feature the likes of Gary Valenciano, Steps Dance Studio and artists from the album, including Kiana Valenciano, Jona, Gab V, Katrina Velarde, Darren Espanto, Lara Maigue, Yeng Constantino, Joey Ayala, RJ Dela Fuente, AC Bonifacio, Daryll Ong, and Janella Salvador. The shows will begin on Nov. 3 and run until Dec. 22 at Ayala Malls across the country.
And since Christmas is also about giving, the celebrations are also designed to make more kids happy, as Ayala Malls launches Laruang Aguinaldo. From Nov. 3 to Dec. 16, participating department stores and toy stores will be selling toys that customers can purchase and donate to UNICEF and Kids 4 Kids.
Ayala Malls deputy head Mariana Zobel de Ayala, who was present during the launch of Ayala Mall’s Christmas festivities shares, “We wanted a more meaningful celebration this year, something that’s not just about shopping or buying things, but about celebrating the holidays with loved ones and family.”
“As a nation, we have always looked forward to Christmas. At the heart of the Filipino Christmas is love for family, embracing traditions and celebrating togetherness — all these you will feel and experience in different shapes and forms from each and all of our Ayala Malls. We are excited to refresh it up for thousands of families who spend the season with us, and invite everyone to Awaken Amazing Christmas Wonder at Ayala Malls,” says Jennylle Tupaz, head of Ayala Malls Group.
