Bei Ubogan Terra’s insights into Christmas among her compatriots
What is Christmas for Filipinos?
For most Filipinos, it’s all about family. It’s the best time of the year when most families gather. And for those who have settled abroad, they always look forward to going home to be with their loved ones for Christmas.
When do Christmas celebrations start for Filipinos?
As soon as ‘BER’ months start, like September and October, public places and homes are usually lit and decorated already. You can already hear Christmas songs playing everywhere during these ‘BER’ months.
Do you have must-eat food or drinks for Christmas celebrations?
I remember big, rounded ham was almost always on the table, along with other favourite dishes like menudo. Families who have more financial capacity for Noche Buena [Christmas Eve Feast] will definitely go for lechon. Desserts would be fruit salad, buko salad and leche flan. As for drinks, maybe adults will have a little alcohol.
Can you name one Christmas tradition?
Simbang Gabi, a series of nine dawn masses on the days leading up to Christmas.
What do children in the Philippines look forward to during Christmas season?
Like many children around the world, they always look forward to the pamasko [Christmas presents] on the table, and going with friends to go around the neighbourhood, Christmas caroling from house to house.
Any popular Christmas songs among Filipinos?
Ang Pasko Ay Sumapit [Christmas is here] and Pasko Na Naman [it’s Christmas again].
More Filipino Christmas songs?
Mano Po Ninong, Mano Po Ninang; Noche Buena; Sa Maybahay Ang Aming Bati; Paskong Anong Saya; Misa De Gallo; Sa Paskong Darating; Pasko Na Sinta Ko; and Tuloy Na Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Pasko.
What do you miss the most about Christmas in the Philippines?
Family and the festivity.
What do most Filipinos do during Christmas in Macau?
Filipino families who have settled in Macau usually try to celebrate it as traditional as it can be, or they travel back to the Philippines to celebrate it there. The overseas Filipino workers, on the other hand, get together with their friends to celebrate Christmas and ease that feeling of missing their families back home.
Can you give some Christmas greetings or phrases often used by Filipinos?
‘Maligayang Pasko’ and ‘Maayong Pasko’, meaning Merry Christmas in Tagalog and Bisayan, respectively.
What gifts do you expect to have this Christmas?
I just want good health and peace.
Merry Christmas Bei!
Merry Christmas Kabayans! Laban Lang!
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