The Philippines is known for celebrating the longest Christmas season. From September to the end of December, there are 4 whole months devoted to celebrating the holiday season.
Why is Christmas so special to Filipinos?
It is the only Asian country with so many Christians. They are delighted and given witness to the Savior’s birth through songs throughout the ages, just as the first Christmas was marked by singing. For the Filipino, Christmas will not be complete without the happy Christmas tunes. September approaches, people are waiting for that “guy” to kick off the holiday season.
Pinoy Christmas carols are known for their happy sounds, and they express a feeling within us that has become inseparable from the holiday season over time—so much joy, love, and celebration.
Before we sing “Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday,”, let’s take a look at some of those timeless Christmas songs.
- Christmas in Our Hearts
Who would have guessed that Jose Mari Chan would eventually spell out Christmas when September approaches? This easy-to-sing and very popular English song is liked by many Filipinos, regardless of age or background. It separates itself from other songs by expressing a message about culture that recalls everyone of their childhood days. The story of Christmas In Our Hearts was inspired by a poem written by Chari Cruz-Zarate as a silver jubilee song. However, Chan decided to make it a holiday song after realizing it was too great to serve simply as a homecoming song.
2. Ang Pasko ay Sumapit
One of the most well-known Filipino Christmas songs of all time Vicente D. Rubi and Mariano Vestil wrote Kasadya ning Táknaa in 1933, and Josefino Cenizal used a Tagalog version of the song as a marching song for Ang Pugad ng Aguila (“Hawk’s Nest”) in 1938.
The song is still played, particularly in community gatherings and churches in the Philippines and abroad. Ang Pasko ay Sumapit is a Filipino Christmas song that celebrates the wonderful holiday season. The song depicts Jesus’ birth, with the three kings paying honor and bringing presents. With a message of joy in the Lord, seeking harmony and unity in the world, and appealing to all to mend our hearts, Reminding us to always love one another, even if it’s not Christmas.
3. Pasko Na, Sinta Ko
Singer Gary Valenciano explains why Christmas should be spent with loved ones. He popularized the song in 1986, and it soon became a hit. It became a Christmas favorite played every year. “Pasko Na, Sinta Ko” has become one of the most memorable Christmas ballads ever recorded; this popular song has surely become Gary’s Christmas anthem. It has been on the list of Christmas songs for every Yuletide season, especially for those who are sentimental around the holidays.
4. Kumukutikutitap
Cayabyab wrote “Kumukutikutitap” in 1983 for a musical. The lyrics of the song are almost tongue-twistering, with a holiday-approaching rhythm that sends a vibe of excitement.
5. Sa May Bahay Ang Aming Bati
This song, formerly known as Namamasko, is an excellent choice for caroling and seeking Christmas gifts from their ninong and ninang. Everyone will agree that it is one of the most well-known songs on every Filipino child’s playlist.
6. Noche Buena
A Tagalog-language Christmas song written by composer Felipe Padilla de León and lyricist Levi Celerio in 1965. This festive song is about the anticipated Noche Buena feast that Filipinos enjoy on Christmas Eve.
This song describes how sharing traditional Filipino cuisine brings families together and strengthens their bonds.
7. Pasko na Naman
Pasko na Naman is a Christmas song that describes how eagerly Filipinos look forward to Christmas Day, a day when love dominates and people sing carols together.
