Christmas is undeniably one of the most eagerly awaited celebrations in the Philippines, with festivities and preparations kicking off as early as four months before the holiday itself.
In the Philippines, clear signs of the upcoming Christmas season include the widespread display of Christmas decorations throughout cities, countless mall sales, and of course, the notorious traffic jams in the metro.
By September, the country’s four-month-long Christmas preparations have already been recognized internationally. CNBC Travel highlighted the arrival of Christmas carols, signaling the fast-approaching holiday season.
In addition to the carols, the commercialization of the holiday and the deep religious roots of the Filipino people are key factors driving the months-long celebrations.
The Philippines, with its 333 years under Spanish colonial rule, witnessed the introduction of Catholicism, which significantly shaped the nation’s culture. But is this the sole reason behind the Filipinos’ deep devotion to Christmas?
According to the Bible, Christmas preparations traditionally begin with the four Advent Sundays leading up to the holiday.
A 2019 master’s study by Antonio Noel Carbayas and Fides del Castillo of De La Salle University in Manila, titled Christmas in the Philippines: Beyond Popular Religious Tradition, explored the celebration of Christmas in the country beyond its Christian roots. The study found that while the Philippines is predominantly Christian, both inculturation and acculturation have significantly influenced the development of Christmas traditions.
Inculturation refers to how Filipino Christmas celebrations have evolved, blending old traditions with new and changing practices. One example is the novena Mass, which has its roots in earlier rituals, such as the nine-day novena Masses honoring “Inang Maria” (Mother Mary) for her role in salvation history and her virtues.
Earlier Catholic rituals, like the “Panata” (vow) — a reenactment of the crucifixion — have evolved over time, shifting towards a practice of making personal sacrifices.
The study also noted the impact of commercialism on the celebration of Christmas in the Philippines. The rise of consumerism has made Christmas more festive but also more exaggerated, influenced by Western culture and other outside factors.
“Commercialism has influenced the way we celebrate, with people becoming more materialistic. However, the essence of Christmas remains intact, with family, faith, hope, and Christ still at the heart of the celebration,” Del Castillo commented.
Many Filipinos echo this sentiment as they share their holiday plans.
“I’m excited that our family will be complete again. It’s a holiday, no classes, no work, and we’ll all be together at the dining table,” said Marcus Montevirgen.
Edriel dela Rama also shared his excitement, looking forward to creating new memories with his loved ones during the season.
“It’s all about bonding with family and friends, and of course, the food served during Noche Buena. Those are the moments that stay with you,” he said.
Despite the commercial influences shaping how Christmas is celebrated in the Philippines, Filipinos should always remember that the true essence of the holiday is rooted in family, faith, and hope — not the material things that surround us.