Jose Mari Chan lives up to his stature as a Christmas legend.
At his recent appearance at the Christmas Tree-lighting ceremony of SM Megamall on October 20, 2023, kids and kids at heart joined him in singing his timeless hit "Christmas in our Hearts."
Read: Did you know: Lea Salonga almost sang “Christmas in Our Hearts" with Jose Mari Chan
The 78-year-old OPM icon was in high spirits, waving to mallgoers, and bantering with the lucky ladies chosen to perform "Please Be Careful With My Heart" with him.
Read: Did you know “A Perfect Christmas” was written by Jose Mari Chan in two days?
The atmosphere turned nostalgic as he serenaded the crowd with "Perfect Christmas," which he dedicated to "ladies and little girls," and the evergreen tune, "Beautiful Girl."
Read: TOTOO BA: Si Gretchen Barretto ang inspirasyon ng "Beautiful Girl" ni Jose Mari Chan?
The grand finale of the event was the launch of his new Christmas jingle, set to ring throughout SM malls during the holiday season, and the lighting of the 50-foot New York-inspired Christmas tree.
The lighting ceremony was attended by Mandaluyong Mayor Carmelita “Menchie” Aguilar Abalos and her grandchildren.
In a brief interview with PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) after the event, Jose Mari disclosed the secret behind his enduring legacy, saying, "Stay happy and healthy, and remember that if you're in a bad situation now, tomorrow's gonna be a better day. Life is a constant change."
It's worth noting that "Constant Change" is the title of his sixth studio album, released on May 25, 1989, featuring "Beautiful Girl" and "Please Be Careful With My Heart."
Santa Claus was there, too, much to the delight of all kids present.
His meet and greet with shoppers will be on November 26 and December 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 25, and 30.
There will also be a Christmas Market from November to December and Coach Holiday Pop-Up from November 7 to January 7, 2024.
