In the Philippines, the term ‘Christmas’ or its Filipino translation ‘Pasko’ is often followed by the word ‘Bongga,’ meaning extravagant. Filipinos go all out for Christmas, from the gifts they give and the holiday pay or Christmas bonuses they receive to the festive meals they serve.
Christmas is perhaps the most awaited holiday in the Philippines. As soon as the “ber” months arrive, a four-month celebration begins — the longest Christmas season in the world.
At the heart of this much-anticipated event is the birth of Jesus Christ. Like most birthday celebrations, Filipinos prepare a festive meal called Noche Buena on the evening of 24 December in anticipation of Christ’s birth.
This tradition dates back to the Spanish colonization of the Philippines when Catholicism was introduced to the country.
This feast is not only meant for a simple gathering of close families, but it also acts as a venue for family reunions whose members have rarely seen each other in the past.
Christmas and family have become synonymous over the years, as both share the same meaning during the holidays.
In the Philippines, the term “Christmas” or its Filipino translation “Pasko” is often followed by the word “Bongga,” meaning extravagant. Filipinos go all out for Christmas, from the gifts they give and the holiday pay or Christmas bonuses they receive to the festive meals they serve.
This particular Filipino Christmas song joyfully lists down the specific dishes which households serve on the eve of 24 December.
This popular Filipino Christmas song joyfully lists the specific dishes typically served on the evening of 24 December. These include Queso de Bola (Edam cheese), macaroni salad, various meat dishes, and occasionally, roasted pig or lechon. There’s also bread or pandesal, and of course, the star of the table —hamon, or holiday ham.
For the First Family, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos continue to follow the same traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Last year, the First Couple invited the Marcos-Romualdez clan for a Noche Buena celebration in Malacañang Palace.
The family attended the midnight Mass and continued with the celebration after.
Among the dishes served were traditional ham, assorted platters of cheese, round fruits, a charcuterie board with cured meats and crackers, chicken dishes, pasta, and other meat viands.
Like the common Filipino household, Marcos also shared and exchanged gifts with his family.
Outside the Palace, the ordinary Filipino prepares a similar holiday feast continuing traditions practiced for centuries.
However, not all Pinoys follow the preparation of Noche Buena “by the book” and make a little variation “to make it their own.”
For some, the feast may include conchinillo, a roasted suckling pig known for its buttery texture, crisp golden-brown skin, and tender meat, offering a different alternative to the traditional lechon or holiday ham.
Others may opt for an American-style meal with steak, while fast food enthusiasts enjoy a bucket of fried chicken or a platter of roasted chicken.
Though the food may vary, the true essence of Noche Buena remains unchanged — bringing families together around the dinner table to savor precious moments with loved ones during the most wonderful time of the year.
This year, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. shared that their Noche Buena celebration might be a bit different, as their sons Sandro, Simon, and Vincent, along with other family members, have other plans. This gives the First Couple the opportunity to enjoy a quiet time welcoming Christmas.
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