For a quarter of a century, Somerset Millennium Makati has stood as a cornerstone of the Makati skyline, evolving from the first serviced residence of Ascott Philippines into a pioneer of responsible hospitality. This year, the property marks its 25th anniversary not merely by looking back at its storied history, but by rooting its future in the values of sustainability and community care. At the heart of this celebration is Taguyod, a Christmas tree whose name—the Filipino word for “support”—embodies the unwavering dedication that has defined the property’s journey since its inception.
The Taguyod tree is a masterpiece of purposeful design, reimagined by the property’s own employees using purely repurposed materials to reflect a spirit of creativity and environmental stewardship. Its physical foundation is a bamboo structure donated by the Base Bahay Foundation Inc., an organization renowned for utilizing innovative bamboo technology to build disaster-resilient, eco-friendly housing. By using bamboo, a traditional symbol of strength and renewal, as the tree’s spine, Somerset Millennium Makati highlights a commitment to a circular economy and the empowerment of local communities through sustainable building practices.
This commitment to the planet extends far beyond the holiday décor. The tree lighting ceremony served as the backdrop for a major environmental milestone: the official transition to 100% renewable energy. In partnership with ACEN, the residence has shifted its entire operation to clean electricity, ensuring that every stay and every light switched on contributes to a lower carbon footprint. This transition marks a definitive move toward long-term responsible operations, proving that high-end hospitality can coexist with rigorous environmental advocacy.
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Deeply woven into this green initiative is a heartfelt partnership with the PAWSsion Project, a non-profit dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of stray animals. The tree is brought to life by a crew of “Chibi Pet Pots”, charming, handcrafted planters made from local abaca, wicker, and raffia by artisans from Bicol, Bulacan, and the National Capital Region. Through the Adopt-a-Chibi program, guests can take home these artisanal creations, with a portion of every purchase going directly to support the animals under PAWSsion Project’s care. This collaboration creates a beautiful cycle of support, where honoring local craftsmanship directly translates into life-saving aid for rescued pets.
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The celebration was made even more poignant by the presence of children from The Philippine Institution for the Deaf, whose musical performances reminded everyone that true sustainability must also be inclusive. As the Taguyod tree glows in the lobby until January 6, 2026, it stands as a reminder that a brighter future is built on the choices we make today. Twenty-five years in, Somerset Millennium Makati is no longer just providing a place to stay; it is fostering a movement of resilience, where every partnership, from renewable energy to animal welfare, serves to support a kinder, greener world.
