As the most anticipated holiday draws near, Filipinos reminisce about their wins and losses throughout the year 2022.

Daily Tribune asked 10 people what they are most thankful for in life and this Christmas:

"I thank the Lord for His blessing of life, especially now in the pandemic. It is a very difficult test that we are still going through today. [I thank him] for keeping me and my family healthy, my profession that he gave to me and my source of income to provide for my family. As a dentist, I am able to treat and address some issues regarding dental problems to improve the oral health of our patients."

— Cynthia Bauyon Bayani, 47, dentist based in Batangas

"What I'm thankful for this holiday season, like us, drivers, has gotten a little better now that we've made a little more money. As for my family, I'm also thankful because somehow, we manage our daily expenses. I am also thankful that my partner is doing okay even though she is far from us. She's in Dubai, as an OFW."

— Agapito Delos Poyos, e-tricycle driver in Antipolo City

"First, I am thankful for the blessing that came to us this year, especially now that our family is finally complete because my sister has come home from Tarlac. We have not seen each other since she's been there for eight years. That was the biggest blessing that we received this Christmas — we live together again in one house. At work, I am somehow lucky as I was able to make money and I have sidelines and extra jobs."

— Rafael John Yago, 30, delivery rider from a popular e-commerce platform

As a teacher, I am grateful because many of my students are on the right path in life. Many are also about to graduate from college. May what they learn be used in the right decision in life and they can share it with those in need. I am also thankful that I became a teacher, who is ready to guide and help my students wholeheartedly. The success of the students is also a blessing for the teachers who sincerely guided them in learning and contributed to their lives."

— Marvin Mauro, 33, senior high school teacher in Marikina

"I am thankful because my family and I are safe and no one in my family was hit by Covid-19. As a fastfood service crew and trainer, it is scary as I encounter different people every day and our safety is at risk. As a working student, I am also thankful that this is my last year in college and the semester is about to end. I'm thankful as well that I can work and be able to help myself and my mother to ease the stress of our financial problems. I believe that ourselves is the only foundation we can have, so we need to be stronger."

— Ryjie Rovera, 22, fastfood service crew

I'm thankful that my prayer has been answered to make my family healthy and not get sick all throughout the year. I'm grateful that I overcame the ups and downs that I experienced as an OFW. I owe it all to the people who became my friends while I was overseas, they became my companions and became my support when I had problems. Also, I'm very grateful that I met a kind and good employer.

— Jean T. Gustilo, domestic helper in Hong Kong

"I am most grateful for the people I encountered this year. Although not all of them stayed, I'm still thankful for the experiences and learnings they've shared with me. Every person we encounter has a purpose to bring into our lives. Having moments with them is the greatest gift that I am grateful for this Christmas. For I am able to learn more myself, learn social cues, and blending with people who have different histories and personalities."

— Angela Cuenta, 22, student and president of One Pinoy Music

"It's not an easy year unlike what others might think. My mom and I are business partners who struggled a lot in the past — we tried a lot of businesses and some of it failed. Despite the hectic schedule, I am still thankful that we were able to help other people by providing jobs through our business. For me, the good thing that happened this year is we're able to provide jobs and give our staff a break to enjoy Christmas and holidays with their loved ones."

— Caithlin Ann Villarin, 24, owner of a local food store, Porchetta Express

"What I'm thankful for is that I was able to survive 2022. I suffered a lot of good things and bad things — juggling school, work, and life. This coming year, I just want to live a life of being happy and successful in my journey, now that I am a graduating student as well. It's no cakewalk surviving and balancing all on the tip of the iceberg. Hoping for a bountiful 2023 next year."

— John Patrick Halili, 22, call center agent

"One of the things I'm thankful for this year is the fact that my family and I are still alive and we're all healthy. I'm also thankful for the opportunity to be a financial advisor.

Aside from the income, it's rewarding to help people especially, relatives, and friends with their finances. It's more of a mission to help manage their finances properly and be ready for uncertainties. It seems like you helped them secure their future in some ways. So this is one of the special Christmases I experienced."

— Leonell Ubaldo, 21, financial advisor from Antipolo City

This might not be the "perfect" Christmas we dreamed of when we were confined in our homes. Surging prices and the threat of the virus are not leaving any time soon, but, we, Filipinos, do what we do best — brace for tougher times.