Tree-lighting event brings back Yuletide memories for Aicelle, Christian

Aicelle Santos

Aicelle Santos and Christian Bautista cut their performing teeth in make-or-break singing tilts (“Pinoy Pop Superstar,” “Star in a Million”) and on demanding theater parts like those they essayed in “Miss Saigon,” “Katy!,” “Rak of Aegis” and “Himala” (for the former) and “Jersey Boys” and “Westside Story” (for the latter).

But years of hard-fought feats have only made the “Miss Saigon” alumna and the romantic balladeer even more appreciative of the value of hard work and, yes, kindness.

Proof that they have kept their feet on the ground is their appreciation for their formative years, as well as their devotion to family.

Last Wednesday, Christian and Aicelle graced the launch of Christmas Toy Town at Eastwood City, where they sang for its revelers to help light up its dazzling toys-and-trinkets-adorned 40-foot Christmas tree.

Other than their solo spots (Aicelle performed “Joy to the World,” while Christian covered “All I Want for Christmas is You” and “Little Drummer Boy”), the duo likewise sang a duet of “A Whole New World.”

At the same event, Eastwood City also launched a toy donation drive. Proceeds will be given to Kythe Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose work revolves around improving the quality of life of children with cancer and other chronic illnesses.

The tree-lighting event, led by Megaworld’s Kevin Tan, was the perfect time for the seasoned singer-actors to “revisit” their memories of spreading Yuletide cheer with their loved ones.

For Aicelle, Christmas was always a much-anticipated opportunity to spend time with family and friends.

“Growing up, my cousins and I would get together and sing Christmas carols,” she said. “In those days, we were happy to receive P50, which was a big amount back then. Kapag naipon namin ’yun, kakain kami sa labas (laughs).

“I also loved opening gifts! I would eagerly await Christmas day to get together with the whole family. I looked forward to our family reunions.”

Christian Bautista

It was the same for Christian. “Yes, I loved having fun, food and family for Christmas,” he said.

Asked what his plans are for the coming holiday season, Christian is bracing himself for a surprise. “You’ll find out about it on social media soon,” he said cryptically. “And it’ll involve me and my wife (Kat Ramnani).”

For her part, Aicelle is gearing up for a life-changing milestone. The lovely thespian is set to marry broadcast journalist Mark Zambrano this month.

“I’ll be spending the new chapter of my life with my husband and our families,” she beamed. “That alone makes it even more special.”