Santa Claus
In the Philippines, Christmas is one of the most celebrated holidays of the year. It is a time for family, friends, and festivities, and one of the most beloved figures of the season is none other than Santa Claus himself. In this article, we will explore the ways in which Filipinos celebrate Christmas with the jolly old man, from traditions and customs to modern-day interpretations.
Traditional Santa Claus in the Philippines
The traditional image of Santa Claus in the Philippines is similar to that in other countries: a jolly old man with a white beard, dressed in a red suit with white trim, and carrying a sack full of toys. However, there are some unique customs and traditions that Filipinos have when it comes to Santa Claus.
One such tradition is the "Simbang Gabi" or "Misa de Gallo," which is a series of nine early morning masses held in the days leading up to Christmas. It is said that those who attend all nine masses will have their wishes granted, and it is common for children to ask Santa Claus for gifts during this time.
Another tradition is the "Paskong Handog" or "Christmas Offering," where people give gifts to their neighbors, friends, and family members. Santa Claus is often seen as the one who brings these gifts, and it is not uncommon to see children leaving out cookies and milk for him on Christmas Eve.
Modern Santa Claus in the Philippines
While the traditional image of Santa Claus is still beloved in the Philippines, there have been some modern interpretations of the jolly old man in recent years. One such interpretation is the "Santa Kuya" or "Big Brother Santa," who is a more relatable and approachable version of Santa Claus.
Santa Kuya is often portrayed as a young, hip, and trendy figure who wears a red hoodie and jeans instead of the traditional red suit. He is seen as a friend and mentor to young people, and is often associated with charitable causes and social activism.
Another modern interpretation of Santa Claus in the Philippines is the "Santa Rex" or "Rex Claus," who is a Filipino version of Santa Claus. Rex Claus is portrayed as a Filipino man with a mustache and a traditional Filipino shirt called a "barong Tagalog." He is often seen riding a "jeepney," which is a popular mode of transportation in the Philippines.
Santa Claus is a beloved figure in the Philippines during the Christmas season, and is celebrated in both traditional and modern ways. From attending early morning masses to leaving out cookies and milk for him on Christmas Eve, Filipinos have their own unique customs and traditions when it comes to the jolly old man. Whether it's the traditional Santa Claus or the modern Santa Kuya or Rex Claus, Santa Claus will always be a cherished part of the Filipino Christmas spirit.
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