For many Filipinos, the holidays serve as an excuse to travel abroad as a family. But come Christmas time, the Philippines is incomparable — colourful parols lighting up the streets, numerous parties filling our calendars, and everyone flocking to malls for gift shopping. And of course, the children knocking on doors, announcing with their sing-song voices – namamasko po!
Indeed, you can’t have a merrier Christmas anywhere else. That said, spending holidays abroad doesn’t mean you have to forget about the Pinoy-style Christmas spirit. Here are some Christmas songs you can play to remind you of the Philippines.
Also read: The Ideal Playlist: 30 Songs For Your Barkada Road Trip
1. Christmas In Our Hearts
When malls start playing Jose Mari Chan on repeat, we know that Christmas season has officially begun in the country. ‘Christmas in Our Hearts’ reminds us of the true essence of the season. As depicted in the lyrics, Filipinos celebrate Christmas as it symbolises the birth of Jesus Christ. Exchanging gifts, singing Christmas carols, and reconciling with loved ones are just a few practices mentioned in the song that Filipinos do in the spirit of Christmas.
2. Ang Pasko Ay Sumapit
‘Ang Pasko ay Sumapit’ may just be one of the most popular Christmas carols in the Philippines. It sings about the nativity of Jesus, and how the story brings joy to the people. The song also ends in a note encouraging generosity, which is why it’s widely sung by kid carolers.
3. Pasko Na Naman
Filipinos celebrate Christmas as early as September, and ‘Pasko Na Naman’ serves even more evidence of our anticipation for this season. Just how excited we are for the season of love and giving to come.
4. Sa May Bahay Ang Aming Bati
The act of pangangaroling can’t be complete without ‘Sa May Bahay Ang Aming Bati.’ In its lyrics, ‘Ang sanhi po ng pagparito, hihingi po ng aginaldo,’ the song literally talks about the fun Christmas tradition of kid carolers going from house to house singing in exchange for coins.
5. Kumukutikutitap
The melody of ‘Kumukutikutitap’ sounds as joyful as its lyrics. Talking about the flickering Christmas lights and colourful lanterns, Ryan Cayabyab celebrates the luminosity of the season through playing with tune and syllables.
6. Pasko Na Sinta Ko
Carrying a tender tune, ‘Pasko Na Sinta Ko’ is the classic anthem for the lonely during the holiday season. Gary Valenciano’s soothing voice is perfect for you to listen to by the fireplace as you indulge in warm drinks and deep conversation and remember the ones you love who can’t be with you in time for Christmas.
7. Sana Ngayong Pasko
Singing in his suave voice, Ariel Rivera has serenaded hundreds of Filipinos through his popular ballad, ‘Sana Ngayong Pasko.’ In this song, he reveals the melancholy that Christmas time brings when your loved ones aren’t by your side to celebrate it
8. Noche Buena
Festivities in the Philippines can’t be complete without an abundance of food, and ‘Noche Buena’ sings exactly of that. The song captures some signature Filipino dishes — tinola, lechon, bread, and cheese — that make Christmas eve as merry as can be.
9. Himig Ng Pasko
‘Himig ng Pasko’ soulfully describes the blissful Christmas spirit in the Philippines, albeit its gentle and slow beat that is reminiscent of an uyayi. Its unhurried lullaby echoes the distinct coolness of “ber” months while still singing of the warm mood brought about by Christmas.
10. Sa Araw Ng Pasko
In a couple of lines, ‘Pasko sa ati’y hahanap-hanapin mo, walang katulad dito ang pasko,’ All Star Cast hits you where it hurts. Spending the holidays elsewhere is undoubtedly thrilling, but there’s definitely no place like home.
Also read: 7 Christmas Traditions Thaw Will Always Be In Every Filipino’s Heart
