6 Things most OFWs miss about Christmas in the Philippines

It is already difficult to be an overseas Filipino worker (OFW). It becomes even more difficult when they know they will not be spending Christmas with their families. So it’s natural for some overseas Filipino workers (OFW) to be disappointed when they can’t spend the holidays with their loved ones.

Here are six things that OFWs miss about Christmas in the Philippines:

1. Early Christmas decorations

Christmas lights and ornaments can be seen in shopping malls and homes as early as September. Christmas in the Philippines is unique in that everyone is excited about the holiday season.

2. Carollers can be found everywhere.

Early December, you’ll see children carolling on the streets, jeepneys, buses, houses, and even inside enterprises, singing a mix of Christmas and hit songs that will undoubtedly delight everyone. Of course, once they get the money, they sing a “Thank You” song.

3. Simbang Gabi (Misa de Gallo)

Going to church at dawn with your family to attend the nine-day novena, also known as Misa de Gallo or simbang gabi, is a Filipino Christmas tradition that is also practiced in some parts of the world. The bonding that Catholic families form after mass when they go out for breakfast and try Filipino favorites like puto (rice cake) and sikwate (hot chocolate) makes this extra special.

4. Christmas Eve (Noche Buena)

Christmas Eve is celebrated in the Philippines immediately after the Misa de Gallo.  Food is overflowing during the holidays. As a result, expect to gain weight. Families are celebrating Noche Buena, which is the time of year when they prepare their favorite dishes such as lechon (roasted suckling pig), spaghetti, Morcon, bacon, Queso de Bola, and fruit salad.

5. Family reunions

Filipinos are known for their close family ties. During the holidays, everyone in the family would barge into one’s homes from all over town or even the country, bringing pots of food and memories to share over a glass of soda, liquor, or wine. For families, a house is set aside to house the entire clan, with games and gift-giving for the children. A simple gathering in restaurants and other places of interest, such as karaoke, is enough to mark the occasion for classmates and coworkers.

6. Gift-Giving

Filipinos enjoy giving and receiving gifts from family and friends. When done with humor, gift-giving can become more exciting. Monito Monita is a tradition in which family members, friends, coworkers, and classmates exchange gifts. This can happen on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, depending on what the group decides. Each participant will draw the name of the person who will receive their gift at each gift-giving session. However, the name must not be revealed until the final day of gift-giving.

Christmas brings together families, friends, and loved ones. For children, it is one of the most anticipated times for their Aguinaldo or gifts. They usually begin with the traditional “mano” sign of respect. Then you’ll hear them say the word “Namamasko po” which will be followed by “Salamat po”.