Team DailyPedia
Christmas in the Philippines is full of traditions that have been practiced for decades. These age-old practices help make the Yuletide season memorable for Filipinos who want to bond with family, friends, and loved ones. The Dailypedia has made a list of 10 traditions that make Christmas more fun in the Philippines.
10. Giving of “Aguinaldo”
Ninongs and Ninangs are the most sought-after people during Christmas because they giving “aguinaldo” or money to children on Christmas day.
9. Simbang Gabi
The Simbang Gabi is a nine-day series of masses practiced by Roman Catholics in the Philippines. They believe that completing all the nine masses will make their wish come true.
8. Panunuluyan
“Panunuluyan” is a reenactment of Jesus Christ’s birth in Bethlehem. Occasionally, this play takes place after dark in the streets with different floats.
7. Noche Buena
Noche Buena is a feast held on Christmas Eve. Filipino families usually have reunions on this day to share and partake in a variety of Filipino delicacies.
6. Christmas Caroling
Carolers go from house to house during the Yuletide season singing Christmas songs, hoping to be rewarded with money or food.
5. Monito-Monita
Monito-Monita is exchanging gifts via secret Santa. Participants of this gift-giving tradition usually get a surprise from their “monito” or “monita” based on a theme.
4. Parol Display
Parols are everywhere during the Christmas season in the Philippines. Sometimes, local government units hold contests for the most beautiful and attractive parol display. It symbolizes the morning star that gives hope to all humanity.
3. “Ninos Inocentes”
Holy innocents day is commemorated every 28th of December which is locally called as “Nino Inocentes.” Filipinos celebrate this day with practical jokes. This is similar to April Fool’s day.
2. Fireworks
Fireworks are a part of Christmas celebration, to dispel any bad luck and to welcome any blessing. However, some major cities ban fireworks due to health and safety reasons.
1. Christmas Bonus
The government has mandated that all companies should provide 13th-month pay to all regular employees as part of the company bonus. Most employees get a whole month’s salary that they will most likely use to make last minute gift-shopping and Noche Buena purchases.
