'Christmas' Life

Lexi Marie from Texas, USA, Earth, Solar System - 12/10/06 00:50

What are some of the traditions when it comes to Christmas in the Philippines. Has Christmas become over-commercialized in the Philippines like it has in the United States?

Comment #1 dvdlady from on a blue planet - 12/10/06 14:29

Good question. I found out that the Philippines is the only Asian nation in which Christiany is the religion chosen by the people. So yeah they do celebrate Christmas, and apparently the celebrations start nine days days before Christmas with a mass known as Misa de Gallo. At this mass the story behind the birth of Christ is read from the Bible. The Panunuluyan pageant is held each Eve. A couple is chosen to re-enact Joseph and Mary's search for shelter.

Comment #2 FoxyLoxy from Texas - 12/13/06 13:09

Does the Philippines have a traditional "Santa Claus" "St. Nick" "Father Christmas" etc. Do they do gifts and toys as in the United States? What about traditional meals?

Comment #3 dvdlady from on a blue planet - 12/13/06 14:08

It does look like the Santa Claus tradition exists in the Philippines but it seems that they focus more on the religious aspect of Christmas. I would think that they exchange gifts though, but I am not all too sure. Also no idea about the dinners. I'll look that up and report if i find anything! :)

Comment #4 Dancer from The Ballroom - 12/15/06 15:06

I am happy to see that they are more focused on the religion of Christmas rather than the hoopla of gift buying. I would think that they have traditional Christmas meals that includes traditional Filipino foods.

Comment #5 dvdlady from on a blue planet - 12/15/06 15:37

Christmas for me was never about the religion. It was about presents! Heh :) Also, christmas trees, turkeys, christmas lights, santa claus. It's a very magical holiday for me, but I grew up in an atheist family, so we never paid any attention to the religious aspect.

Comment #6 Shiela (109.111.97.47) - 06/24/10 10:42

Yeah, in the Philippines mostly people are celebrating Christmas in a very religious way. And yes, Santa Claus, Christmas tress, gifts, and more are always present. So what is unique with the Philippine Christmas celebration? It is their festive meal on the Christmas eve. The family come together and eat together at midnight after they go for a mass. I think it is warm and very Christmas like when families and friends come together and celebrate that special day.

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