I WAS on my way to a meeting when I decided to pass by the downtown area. As soon as I reached the main thoroughfare of the city, familiar Christmas tunes met my ears which gave me an inexplicable sense of anticipation for the season.
Yet, it is still September. While listening to the song of Jose Marie Chan, my mind is also wondering why we Filipinos start the Christmas season as soon as the current month ends with the proverbial “ber.”
So, I Googled why this is so. And this is what I learned.
The early celebration of Christmas in the Philippines, commencing as early as September, is a rich tradition woven from cultural, religious, and psychological threads. This unique practice, known as the “ber” months, extends the Christmas season from September to January, making it one of the longest Christmas celebrations globally.
The psychological aspect plays a significant role in this early celebration. Filipinos have a natural inclination to prepare and count down the days to major events, which is why we start celebrating Christmas early. This preparation and anticipation add to the excitement and joy of the season.
Religious beliefs also significantly contribute to the early commencement of Christmas festivities. Although the Advent season, which prepares for the birth of Jesus, officially begins four Sundays before Christmas, the Filipino tradition of celebrating Christmas starts much earlier. This early celebration is a way for Filipinos to express their devotion and prepare spiritually for the birth of Christ.
The Bible verse from Luke 2:10-11 encapsulates the essence of this anticipation: “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'”
The economic impact of this extended Christmas season is substantial. It boosts the local economy through increased spending on decorations, gifts, and other festive items. This economic activity is a significant part of the holiday season, contributing to the overall festive atmosphere.
Cultural traditions further enrich the early Christmas celebrations. The “ber” months are marked by various activities such as the Simbang Gabi, a series of nine dawn masses that start on December 16 and end on Christmas Eve. These masses are a significant part of Filipino Christmas traditions and are attended by many, fostering a sense of community and faith.
The Bible verse from Hebrews 10:25 encourages this communal gathering: “Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Additionally, the culinary traditions of the Philippines add to the festive spirit. Traditional Christmas foods like puto bumbong and bibingka are enjoyed during this time, adding a delicious layer to the celebrations.
The anticipation of the much-awaited “bonus” by government and private company workers is another aspect of the season. This financial blessing allows many to enjoy the festivities more fully.
Despite the challenges of rising prices, climate change, unsolved crimes, and the political landscape, the hope is that the joy and anticipation of the “ber” months will remain untainted.
Philippians 4:4-7 offers a message of hope and peace amidst life’s trials: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Thus, the early celebration of Christmas in the Philippines is a testament to the Filipino spirit of joy, faith, and resilience. It is a season that, despite the challenges, continues to bring light and hope to many.
