Unraveling the Story of the First Filipino Christmas
15 December 2022What stories do you know about Christmas? Was it about a child born in Bethlehem or Santa Claus riding in his sleigh touring around the world to bring presents on Christmas Eve?
Whichever it was, we all believe that Christmas is the happiest season of the year. It brings the family altogether and gives Christmas gifts to one another. For hardworking Filipinos, the Christmas season is an abundant month as they will also receive their 13th-month pays and bonuses.
But behind this festive event, only a few people know how Christmas began in the Philippines. So, let us look back to the history of the first Filipino Christmas.
How Christmas Began in the Philippines
Before Christmas became part of Filipino culture, the story started in Bolinao, Pangasinan. In 1324 A.D., a Franciscan friar-missionary explorer was forced to take refuge on the shores of Bolinao due to stormy weather. His name was Fr. Odorico of Pordenone. Along with his companions, they were greeted by hostile natives who made them feel they were not welcome to land.
Despite the natives’ hostility, Fr. Odorico stood firm and silently prayed, holding a black cross in his hand. The locals then realized that the friar could cause no harm to the village and the people. The natives of Bolinao welcomed them with a festive gathering and celebrated the first Catholic mass in the Philippines.
Moreover, Fr. Odorico baptized some Malay immigrants he met throughout his journey. According to the historical marker located in St. James the Great Parish Church in Bolinao, all of these events happened on December 25, 1324. Therefore, this also occurred two (2) centuries before the Spanish rule in the Philippines.
Fact or Myth?
On the other hand, this untold story has not been written in our history. Although there’s a historical marker in Bolinao, the legend lacks substantial proof it really happened as this story has been passed through an oral tradition. It was never even recorded in Vatican-verified historical accounts that Fr. Odorico had a mission in the Philippines.
Nevertheless, it’s an interesting story of how Christmas celebrations happened centuries ago.
7 Interesting Facts About Filipino Christmas
How Filipinos celebrate Christmas is different from other countries. The Christmas spirit is more hype, meaningful, and full of life. It’s no wonder why many foreign tourists choose to visit the Philippines to experience a wonderful Christmas celebration.
Check out these unique Christmas traditions that only Filipinos can relate to.
Christmas season starts in -ber months.
Celebrating Christmas in the Philippines is the longest Holiday season in the world. As soon as the calendar marks September 1st, Filipinos become excited and start setting up the Christmas tree in their house.
Then, the Christmas season ends in January during the Epiphany or Feast of Three Kings.
Decorating Christmas Parols and Belen.
Besides Christmas trees, you’ll notice that most buildings and offices decorate Christmas parols and light up Christmas lights. Churches and some offices set up their own version of a Belen or a nativity scene in Bethlehem.
Waking up early to attend a Simbang Gabi.
No matter how exhausted Filipinos are, they make time to wake up early to attend the Simbang Gabi. These are early morning masses, and many believe that wishes will come true if you complete the 9-day Simbang Gabi.
Filipinos do house-to-house Christmas caroling.
Did you know that Christmas caroling was inspired by a choir singing to the devotional villancicos during the Holy Mass? Due to its extreme popularity, Filipinos replaced the songs about Christmas even after World War II.
For other countries, Christmas carols are more about good vocals, instruments, and well-practiced, singing Christmas songs like "Silent Night." For Filipinos, it is more about a humorous affair, strolling around the neighborhood. Even Filipino children do house-to-house caroling, singing a Filipino Christmas song to have money to spend on Christmas day.
Waiting for Christmas presents or aguinaldo.
Kids or even kids-at-heart are waiting for their pamasko or Christmas presents on Christmas. Mostly, Ninongs and Ninangs, or Godparents, give away toys or cash gifts to their godchildren.
For adults, exchanging gifts is the most awaited activity on Christmas. While everyone is singing the classic song, “I Love the Manito/Manita, one by one is handing out presents to their Manito/Manita.
Never miss the Misa de Gallo.
Filipinos also attend Misa de Gallo, the first Holy Mass of Simbang Gabi. Some churches re-enact the story of the child born in a manger, lighting candles and projector displays outside the church vicinity.
Outside or near the church, a few stalls sell traditional Filipino Christmas delicacies like puto bungbong, bibingka, and hot tsokolate.
Preparing sumptuous food on Noche Buena and Media Noche.
Filipinos have a variety of delightful menus on Christmas Eve called Noche Buena. From crispy lechon and hamon de bola to mouth-watering Leche flan and fruit salad, everyone wakes up at midnight to enjoy these delectable foods on the table.
Of course, preparing food does not end on Christmas Eve because Filipinos will also cook 13 kinds of meals for Media Noche for New Year’s celebration. This includes 13 types of round-shaped fruits, a cup of rice, fresh eggs, and money in a huge basket. Filipinos believe that this will bring good health and fortune throughout the year.
Spend the Best Christmas Holiday in Lumina Homes
One of the most joyful and dynamic neighborhoods that celebrate the best Christmas season is Lumina Homes. It features a well-planned residential community where residents can freely interact with one another. It also has facilities like a community hall or activity area, children’s parks, and playgrounds.
Lumina Homes is an affordable house and lot residential property where Filipinos can live in quality homes at affordable prices. It is flood-free and disaster-proof, so you don’t have to worry about vacating your home during typhoons and other natural disasters. Thus, you can spend a Merry Christmas Holiday as long as you want, so it’s an excellent real estate investment to look forward to.
So, if you’re looking for a sustainable house and lot in the Philippines, book a reservation now for online tripping. You can also get in touch with one of our Lumina representatives online about where our affordable house and lot for sale units are located in your area.
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