What to expect once -ber months kick in? What else? the countdown to the long Christmas in the Philippines commences, which lasts from September to December,of course there are many family gatherings and celebrations. There are countless reasons why we cherish the Christmas season in a culture where faith and family are valued as the pillars of society. Our favorite holiday songs are being played in the background as some malls and businesses are now decorated out for Christmas. At this early hour, people can’t help but celebrate. On the other hand here are the things you can expect when “ber month trend comes”;
Nighttime hours are longer than morning hours
In the upcoming months, be prepared for your nights to seem particularly length. The Philippines PAGASA reports that this generally happens following yesterday’s (September 23) Early autumn Equinox. The length of day and night is equal to 12 hours each at this time because the sun is above the equator. Since most celebrations take place at night.
Simbang Gabi
Nine days before Christmas, on December 16, the real countdown to the holiday officially begins. Filipinos hear Simbang Gabi or Misa de Aguinaldo (masses celebrated at daybreak), as we are largely a Catholic nation. Along with being thankful, the Christmas season brings the Filipinos the joy of bibingka and puto bumbong, rice delicacies. Christmas is undeniably more joyful in the Philippines. The nicest thing is that it starts so early that folks can get ready for it while still getting ready for trick-or-treating on Halloween. Even though the holidays are delightful, the months of planning that lead up to ber months trend make them even more so.
Attend to Misa de Gallo during Christmas Eve
There is a routine for Sunday mass, but Christmas is a special occasion. Regular Sunday service is different from Misa de Gallo, the Christmas mass that the majority of Filipinos attend. It’s a celebration that includes candle-lighting, projector displays, and occasionally a retelling of the events surrounding the birth of Jesus. The first mass following the nine days of Simbang Gabi is also known as Misa de Gallo. If you attend all nine days of Simbang Gabi, it’s said that you can make a wish during Misa de Gallo.
13th Month Bonus
When the weather starts to become cold in December, you may hear two words coming from every Filipino’s mouth. The 13th month of their income is the other, and the first is Christmas and how they will spend it with their families. Since this payment covers the cost of the Christmas presents we give to our loved ones, everyone eagerly anticipates it. The payment must be received by December 24th of each year, at the latest. While the majority of firms prefer to pay their staff at the end of the fiscal year.
Christmas Shopping
It makes sense that Filipinos begin their holiday shopping as soon as the first Jose Mari Chan song appears on the air because finding the ideal presents for loved ones, friends, and even coworkers involves some advance thought.Who particularly cares about traffic? As part of their holiday customs, Filipinos shop for Christmas gifts in crowded malls. Between -ber months trend, Filipino employees receive bonuses and financial presents, which they typically spend on mall sales. Malls are crowded with shoppers shopping for gifts and those looking to buy items for themselves during the Christmas sales.
Caroling
Caroling in the Philippines is fun since it doesn’t have to be perfect. The funnier it is, the better, in fact Adlibs that are out of tune, impromptu lyrics, and crazy dance all contribute to the joyous atmosphere of Christmas. Christmas carol singing is a whole performance with excellent singing, clothing that match, instruments, and well-rehearsed ber months trend music. It has turned into a funny situation for us. Beginning in early December, Filipino children and adults alike go from house to house. Christmas costumes and songbooks are replaced with recycled instruments and original songs. A sure sign that Christmas is approaching is caroling, which may be heard from big empty can of milk as drum and cap of the soft drink as tambourine and jingle bells.
Lights And Parols
No matter how small or humble the home, a parol hangs on the door or window. Filipinos prepare for Christmas by cleaning off vintage ornaments. For the majority of Filipino families, taking down old decorations from a box and rehanging them is a big affair. Inspired by the star that led the three kings at the Nativity, the parol rules the homes, lots, and streets. Originally designed to hang from lampposts to direct worshippers to Simbang Gabi, the parol is now ubiquitous and can be seen outside homes, in shopping centers, and at places of business. The youngsters are happy as they hang Christmas ornaments from the tree.
Manito-Manita
The traditional technique of exchanging gifts is dull, so we give it a Filipino twist. You have to describe your manita or manito, have everyone guess who it is, and sing in addition to finding the ideal gift for them. Although it may seem like a lot of effort, it is a joy to witness how grateful everyone is for all of their gifts during this season of giving.
Media Noche
For us Filipinos, Christmas doesn’t finish on December 25. While most people ring in the new year by having a good time with their friends, our family-oriented culture celebrates Media Noche, another big meal. Since circles are said to bring good fortune, the table is typically decorated with food cut in for round shapes and a variety of 12 spherical fruits. In addition, it is also believed that loud noises will deter evil spirits from entering the new year. As a result, as the clock strikes midnight, we make as much noise as we can, whether it be with car alarms, musical instruments, a torotot, or sparklers and firecrackers.
Aguinaldo or Pamasko
This is for the young ones who spend the entire season searching for their ninangs and ninongs. Unwrapping presents is enjoyable, but getting a red envelope is equally wonderful. The money in these ang pao, which godparents give to their godchildren, frequently goes toward savings or a pleasant Christmas surprise for yourself. We must always remember to express gratitude, whether we are given P20s or the huge blue ones.
We all had to change a lot of things this year. There is one custom you may continue to uphold to express your love for your family even if you’re far and unable to travel to them over the Christmas season. However, no matter what life’s hardships come into our lives, be strong and keep a strong heart. The important thing here is that you and your family gather together with joy, each one happy and safe.
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Written by Joshua Dave Morfe
