Manila, Philippines
– ‘100 Voices, 10 Hopes, One Christmas Story’ is the
theme of a Christmas tree building contest hosted by Dusit
Thani Manila, a luxury hotel in Manila. This year, Everest
Academy was one of 10 schools participating in the contest,
with their tree titled Good News and Good Tidings.
This is the
third consecutive year that Dusit Thani has held the Christmas
tree contest – first for individuals, then for families, and
now for schools. Viewers can vote for the trees on Facebook
or when visiting the hotel from November 15 – December 28,
and the top three winners will receive cash prizes to
be given to the charity of their choice.
Everest chose Mano Amiga as their beneficiary, and focused their tree on
the Good News of Christ’s birth. Each tree in the
contest must use one recycled material in its construction; Everest
students chose to use newspaper, in line with their theme
of Good News and Good Tidings.
Students shared their Christmas messages
and wishes, which were worked into the base of the
Christmas tree, along with pictures of the Everest families.
“The outer
part of the Christmas tree is filled with elegantly-designed holes
in order to see the Nativity scene inside,” says Dean
of Students Ferdie dela Chica. “This signifies the inner meaning
of Christmas; it speaks about the sacredness of life and
the values of a Christian family. Moreover, it invites everyone
to look deeply into the significance of Christ’s birth in
their lives.”
Everest student council members, who worked on the construction of
the tree, said that the Nativity scene was important as
the focal point of their tree.
“It really showed the true meaning
of Christmas,” said 7th grader Betty Nakpil.
This was Everest’s hope
– to remind everyone of the real reason for the
celebration of Christmas, as Ferdie explains.
“Our Christmas tree in its
simplicity conveys a powerful message of hope: that
God became man and dwelt among us, all because of
his immense love for us.”
Support Mano Amiga by voting
for Everest Academy´s tree here!
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