National Artists, world-class Pinoy creators gather for the unveiling of the reimagined 'Puso ng Pasko'
Filipino creativity at its finest was in full display as a premiere lifestyle mall unveiled its Christmas display for 2026 that will definitely evoke a lot of nostalgia for many Filipino families.
On Tuesday afternoon, October 20, SM Aura dazzled its distinct guests, VIPs, and members of the media with the opening of Plaza de Aura.
In fact, three National Artists graced the festive event led by National Artist for Music Ryan Cayabyab and National Artist for Dance Nonoy Froilan.
What's more, the celebrated dancer, choreographer, director, and educator Alice Reyes, a National Artist as well, also attended the "Puso ng Pasko" celebration.
Flexing the power, influence, and artistry of the Filipino talent was the core theme for this breathtaking Holiday-inspired installation.
SM Supermalls President Steven Tan stated, “We Filipinos are known for celebrating the longest Christmas season. After all, Christmas brings together everything we hold dear. What are those things?”
“Our faith in God, our families, our friends, our traditions passed on from generations to generations.”
Explaining the unique beauty of the Plaza de Aura display, he noted, “What better occasion to showcase our rich heritage through this season, the Christmas season. This year, we wanted to celebrate Christmas in a way that is so distinctly Filipino- Pinoy na Pinoy. Pinoy pride!
“Through our Plaza de Aura we've reimagined familiar Christmas traditions through Filipino artistry. We're specially delighted to have collaborated with a renowned Filipino designer, my good friend Gino Gonzales. Whose creativity has brought this vision into life.”
Highly-respected production designer Gino Gonzales, who bagged the distinct recognition of Gawad CCP Para sa Sining in 2024 told the members of the press of how he used traditional Filipino art form to create this unique display.
“So after several conversations with Steven Tan and his team we decided to play on nostalgia, Filipino nostalgia.
“So, we had a lot of elements traditional art forms, like callado, sputnik parol [from] the 1960s, pabalat from Bulacan, and also capiz chandeliers from the 1970s also.”
He added that this "Puso ng Pasko" installation is his way of relieving his Christmas experience as a child.
Talking to GMA Lifestyle, “A lot of these things were the things I saw in my childhood in the '70s, so, a lot of things have disappeared in the past and things were considered baduy (uncool) for a long time. So, we're very glad that there is a resurgence of interest in these elements.”
Here's what you've missed in the 'Pusko ng Pasko' unveiling at SM Aura that will really boost your excitement for the Christmas season in this gallery.
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