Celebrities and Traditions Reflect on the True Meaning of Christmas

Christmas evokes nostalgic memories of family traditions and spiritual reflection across the Philippines. Growing up in Borongan, Eastern Samar, one tradition that stands out is the making of the parol lantern. Crafted from bamboo sticks, colored cellophane, and papel de hapon, the parol symbolizes the Star of Bethlehem, guiding the three wise men to the family home. Despite its simplicity, this handcrafted lantern holds deep sentimental value, warming the hearts of loved ones during the festive season.

Holiday preparations start as early as September, with homes and malls adorned in vibrant Christmas lights. Popular locations like Policarpio Street in Mandaluyong City become festive hotspots, drawing visitors to marvel at the elaborate displays that transform neighborhoods into enchanting fairylands.

In traditional households, the festive feast plays a central role. Families indulge in classic dishes like adobo, fruit salad, pancit, and embutido. Unique regional specialties—such as salukara, a rice cake made with ground rice, brown sugar, coconut milk, and tuba, offering a subtly sour flavor, and sagmani, a kakanin steamed in coconut shells—highlight the rich culinary heritage.

The season is not only about food and decorations but also about togetherness and gratitude. Following Christmas Eve celebrations, families often spend days outdoors, enjoying picnics by the shore and cherishing moments of leisure and connection.

Several Filipino celebrities have shared their perspectives on the essence of Christmas, emphasizing family, forgiveness, and the spiritual significance of Jesus’ birth.

Bianca Gonzalez reflects, "In this season of my life, Christmas is about being with those I love the most, spending quality time with family, and having quiet time for myself to reflect on the year that was and the year ahead. I now realize that Christmas as a celebration is really for and made joyful by the children around us, who embody what peace, love and joy is."

Christine Babao highlights the faith aspect, stating, "The real reason for the season is Jesus. The birth of Baby Jesus. Reminding us to reflect on the humility of His Birth, yet He is the King of Kings. Happy birthday, Jesus."

Jake Macapagal sums up the communal spirit: "Christmas to me? When people who’ve been distant to each other all year suddenly hug. When one 'Let’s eat' fixes every grudge. That’s Christmas, not the gifts. Just presence. Family. Off-key carols but still together. Happy Christmas!"

Patrick and Nikka Garcia affirm, "Christmas means the celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!"

Nikki Valdez describes Christmas as her favorite time of year, cherishing family time and the birth of Jesus as the greatest gift.

Alex Calleja remarks on reconciliation: "Maybe because this is the birth of Jesus and the declaration of Peace on Earth, many families reconcile during Christmas. Christmas, for me, is forgiving."

Sam Oh focuses on spiritual hope: "Christmas means 'gathering to Christ'... It fills me with a kind of hope and joy that this world could never give, and there is no greater gift."

Therese Malvar cherishes familial reunions and shared traditions like movie marathons, highlighting the joy of nostalgia and togetherness.

As the season unfolds, these reflections serve as poignant reminders that Christmas transcends materialism, inviting all to embrace faith, forgiveness, and the warmth of family bonds.

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas!