Isha Ponti, Andrea Gutierrez ready to prove they’re ‘The Next Ones’

Isha Ponti, Andrea Gutierrez ready to prove they’re ‘The Next Ones’

Jerry Donato - The Philippine Star 

October 31, 2025 | 12:00am

Emerging artists Isha Ponti and Andrea Gutierrez come together for their first-ever concert, “The Next Ones,” on Dec. 13, 8 p.m. at the Music Museum. Isha is a singer-songwriter, while Andrea is a singer. Pop is the former’s choice of genre, and bossa nova is the latter’s.

Isha and Andrea promise music enthusiasts a showcase of their strengths and potential as performers and not a showdown.

Although both have already recorded and released songs, Isha and Andrea will introduce themselves and their music to the public. The show’s director is Calvin Neria, while the musical director is Adonis Tabanda.

“It’s mixed emotions,” said Andrea of her initial reaction upon learning of such a career endeavor in a recent chat with The STAR. “Siyempre, may takot po kasi first time namin gagawin ‘to and then siyempre, happy and thankful (of course, there’s fear because we will be doing this for the first time and then there are feelings of happiness and gratefulness).”

As for Isha, she agreed to the idea because it’s “like a way for us to pave (the) way for other artists because we started out as front acts and guests. Sila naman po yung i-ni-encourage ngayon (they are the ones being encouraged to share and show their talents this time).”

Isha was referring to their singer-friends who, like them, carry on in chasing their singing dreams.

The two Pinay singers got to know each other when they attended voice lessons. They also participated in the same singing competition, “Asia’s Best,” and became grand champions. Years ago, they met again and graced shows of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) artists such as Marco Sison and Nonoy Zuñiga. And another OPM legend and songwriter, Rey Valera, will also grace their concert.

“There are duets and production numbers,” said Andrea about what the audience can look forward to aside from the solo segments. “And the songs that we haven’t sung before, we’ll get to do them.” As front acts, their choices of songs were limited and based on the show’s theme.

Isha added that they’re “more on modern” songs, but old tunes are also part of their repertoire. They will give them a contemporary touch.

According to director Calvin, the concept for “The Next Ones” is to showcase the artists’ versatility, “but I also want the people or their audience to get to know them through their music and genres.” With that, the show will be somehow story-driven, which means “there’s a takeaway” after one watches it, added he. “The main focus is their artistry and the repertoire. There are more than 17 songs.”

They might also sing songs of their music influences. Isha said she has grown up listening to the records of Sarah Geronimo, Kyla, Nina, Regine Velasquez and Sharon Cuneta. Andrea likes Lani Misalucha and Sitti, the local recording scene’s Queen of Bossa Nova.

Andrea has recently launched the ditty, Mestizong Gwapo. The most recent singles of Isha, on the other hand, are Dyahe and You Loved Me First. She has two more to release this year: They are Kabanata and Kung Maalaala Mo Ako.

After “The Next Ones,” they see themselves recording new songs, releasing an album and topbilling shows, plus content on their social media platforms.

“I do my storytelling when it comes to the songs I write, the lyrics I write,” Isha gave her two cents on singers as storytellers. “With the sounds, you can feel the emotions through sounds. When you like interlock all of them, it becomes (or they produce) a whole story that people can interpret and they can feel a lot of emotions, a lot of meaning behind it.”

“From there, I’d also see myself as a storyteller. I feel like it’s because of the way other artists deliver their performance or music (that also makes them a storyteller),” added she.

That’s why Andrea needs to “feel the emotions, the story (of the song). Minsan, diba, kapag na-a-areglo, nawawala yung essence nung song (sometimes, the song arrangement affects its essence). I want to feel the lyrics and the story.”

Since their show is timed during Christmas season, they consider it their gift to family, friends and fans and those people who believe in and trust them.

As they unwrap the musical gift, Isha and Andrea will show what they’ve got as artists in “The Next Ones.”

They are also game to the idea of guesting in the OPM countdown show, “Vibe,” on TV5, which airs weekdays, weeknights and weekends. They can talk about their songs, music and journey as artists in the segment “Uprising.”

For ticket inquiries, visit https://premier.ticketworld.com.ph/shows/show.aspx?sh=NEXTONES25.

Alex Eala, Bryan Bagunas flag-bearers for Team PH in Thailand SEAG

By Kristel Satumbaga-Villar

Published Dec 2, 2025 03:04 pm

At A Glance

• Alex Eala and Bryan Bagunas, two athletes who have exemplified their talents in their respective sports, have been selected as the country's flag-bearers in the parade of athletes for the opening ceremony of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand on Dec. 9.

Alex Eala and Bryan Bagunas, two athletes who have exemplified their talents in their respective sports, have been chosen as the country's flag-bearers in the parade of athletes for the opening ceremony of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand on Dec. 9.

Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino made the announcement on Tuesday, Dec. 2, citing the contribution the two athletes have made in Philippine tennis and men's volleyball, respectively.

“Popularity aside, Alex and Bryan have made impacts in the global sports community and that makes them the best choice to carry the flag in the SEA Games,” said Tolentino.

The country has been assigned a 300-member delegation for the parade around the Rajamangala National Stadium in the opening ceremony, but the number could possibly be trimmed to 200 due to the year-long mourning for Queen Sirikit  and the Songkhla disaster.

Close to 1,700 Filipino athletes are competing in this year's edition that has 574 events in 50 sports and will now be played in two main hubs—Bangkok and Chonburi—after Songkhla was written off because of massive flooding.

Eala has been one of the country's top sports stars after a phenomenal season that saw her rise from No. 148 early this year to No. 50 -- the highest-ranked ever by any Filipina player in history -- that was highlighted by historic victories in the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) Tour.

She also became the first Filipina to get past the first round of the US Open.

Bagunas, on the other hand, was the main man of the Alas Pilipinas Men’s Team in the FIVB World Championship last September, spearheading a history victory—over many-time African champion Egypt—in an FIVB competition.

Tolentino said that the choice for flag-bearer or flag-bearers have always been an important task of the POC and the athlete or athletes who have the most impact and inspirational appeal not only to national athletes but to the Filipino youth gain the most premium in the selection.

“It’s about the inspirational appeal, the motivation and hard-work that reaps accomplishment that make an athlete or athletes the best choice for the chore,” Tolentino said.

At the 2023 edition in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, volleyball star Alyssa Valdez was the flag-bearer at the opening ceremony.

Davao City councilor warns vs fake resort social media pages

By Ivy Tejano

Published Dec 3, 2025 10:24 pm

BONGUYAN (FB)

DAVAO CITY – A Davao City councilor has warned over a growing number of fraudulent Facebook pages posing as legitimate resorts, rest houses, and function venues and urged the people to be more cautious during the holidays.

Public Works and Highways Committee chairperson Jessica Bonguyan said scammers are exploiting the holiday rush by creating fake pages that imitate well-known resorts and event venues.

She noted that these Facebook pages used copied photos, branding, and enticing “holiday promos” to lure victims into sending payments to personal bank accounts.

“These scams are getting more advanced, made to look real, updated, and believable.”

Bonguyan revealed that she herself encountered an attempted scam involving a resort promotion that initially appeared legitimate.

She said she decided to verify the offer through the resort’s official page, where she learned that the account she had been interacting with was fake.

“Had I not taken that extra step, I would have been another victim,” she said, encouraging Davaoeños and tourists to observe strict precautions when making online reservations.

Bonguyan stressed that no one is immune to these scams, emphasizing that fraudsters are strategic and highly skilled at imitating real businesses. “When in doubt, stop and verify,” she added.

She reminded everyone to verify the authenticity of pages, contact establishments through their official websites or verified phone numbers, be wary of offers that seem “too good to be true,” and scrutinize payment instructions, mainly when deposits are directed to personal accounts.

The councilor called on the public to stay alert throughout the Christmas season, saying that scammers often thrive when people are rushing to secure bookings for their families.

“Awareness is our strongest defense,” she said. “We must encourage our constituents to be discerning and deliberate when engaging in online transactions.”

Bonguyan moved to pass a resolution urging heightened public vigilance against online resort booking scams.

Here's what went down during Blackpink's 'Deadline' concert in Bulacan

From high-energy anthems to intimate solos, Blackpink delivered a show that showcased both growth and gratitude

By John Legaspi

Published Dec 1, 2025 05:25 pm

It started with a countdown. And as the numbers came close to the end, all I could think about was: after years of listening to their songs and writing about their journey, I’m about to witness Blackpink perform live. When Rosé, Lisa, Jisoo, and Jennie emerged onstage with their anthem “Kill This Love” in the background, the Philippine Arena wasn’t just filled with pink twinkling lights, but with pure joy and a celebration of how music moves people and transcends language—and I couldn’t believe I was part of that moment.

Blackpink members Rosé, Lisa, Jisoo, and Jennie send hearts to Blinks.

Pre-concert excitement

This is the third time South Korean girl group Blackpink has included the Philippines as one of its stops for their world tour, the first one in 2019 with “In Your Area,” followed by “Born Pink” in 2023. Like their last show, the “Deadline” World Tour was a two-day event, much to the delight of Filipino Blinks. I was lucky enough to be part of the first day of the concert on Nov. 22, 2025.

That day, the Philippine Arena in Bulacan was dressed in pink and black courtesy of the creative ensembles of fans. Despite the heat, everyone was all smiles, checking out their looks and applying makeup while sitting on the grassy lawns. Their giddiness was hard to hide, which eased my nerves as it was my first time attending their concert—and doing it alone.

Purchasing Blackpink merch made easier with Maya Black Visa Credit Card and Pink Glitter Edition Maya Visa Card

Visa and Maya’s photobooths

Visa and Maya’s photobooths

When the gates opened, some ran as fast as they could to get into the arena. Others, like myself, took time to check out the different booths in the venue. Visa and Maya set up various booths where Blinks could take snaps of their “Deadline” weekend and score a Vee bag charm after. I also made sure to visit the merchandise stall outside the arena and got a shirt, which I easily purchased with my Maya Visa card.

An ocean of pink hearts lit up the Philippine Arena.

Inside the arena, fans gathered to take photos and share stories and laughter. The perfect pregame, of course, was listening to Blackpink’s hits, which were played in the arena, hyping up everyone’s energy. Come 6 p.m., everyone in my section was seated, phones ready, and light sticks glowing, creating a sea of pink hearts. Then the lights dimmed and the countdown began.

Special moments on stage

Blackpink kicked off the concert’s Act 1 on a high note with hits such as “Kill This Love,” “Pink Venom,” and “How You Like That.” Flames, pyrotechnics, smoke machines, graphic backgrounds, and laser lights added spectacle to their performance.

Act 1 of the ‘Deadline’ concert featured many of Blackpink’s iconic anthems.

Act 2 put the spotlight on Jisoo and Lisa, as they performed their solo hits like “Earthquake” and “Your Love” for the former, and “Thunder” and “When I'm With You” for the latter.

The girls gathered again onstage for Act 3. It started with some of Blackpink’s fiercer, high-energy hits. But for me, the highlight of the act was their performance of “Stay” and “Lovesick Girls,” which presented a softer side of the members, somehow setting the tone for the upcoming moments.

Blackpink members sharing a moment onstage.

Jennie took the stage on her own to begin Act 4 with her “Starlight” and “Like Jennie” performances. Rosé’s solo set was more stripped down. Before taking the stage, she tried a Filipino snack, turon, and gave it a thumbs up. Perhaps the most vulnerable part of the concert was when Rosé powered through her “Number One Girl” with the help of Filipino Blinks. The singer confessed to being sick the night before and not having the confidence to be onstage.

“We took a little break, but now we are back,” Rosé said. “I must say, sometimes, I forget how to do things live. Some days, I don’t feel like Blackpink… But as we are rising, and you guys are cheering for us, it reminded me. You guys made me feel like Blackpink.”

Act 5 brought the girls back to the stage to perform their latest hits.

That was one of the many moments of the evening when Filipino Blinks were able to show love and support to Blackpink. Sometimes, it is not about them hitting every note or executing every move flawlessly onstage. Rosé, Jisoo, Lisa, and Jennie have touched their hearts beyond music, inspiring fans with their authenticity, resilience, and passion.

Act 5 was a party with their “Jump” song. In these last moments, the members took time to acknowledge the crowd, looking at the unique and quirky signboards, getting closer to fans, and waving as high as they could to make everyone feel seen. And when everyone thought it was over, the girls returned to the stage to give everyone a proper goodbye and thank you with “See U Later.”

Back together, stronger than ever

The “Deadline” World Tour was a special moment for Blinks as it marked the reunion of the four members after briefly pursuing solo paths. Each act of the concert was woven together with short videos of the girls on a road trip, from the urban jungle and Las Vegas to the Wild West. Throughout the concert, Blackpink also took fans on an emotional ride—one that reminded everyone of the power of music and coming together, no matter the situation.

Jennie, Rosé, Lisa, and Jisoo taking a bow and bidding Blinks farewell.

The Philippine Arena glowed in pink to celebrate the success of the ‘Deadline’ concert’s Day 1.

The concert’s first show in Bulacan was a shared space and moment filled with cheers, chants, and moments of pure bliss, proving that the bond between Blackpink and their fans remains unshakable—and I’m sure nobody can kill that love.

Gloria Diaz breaks silence on Miss Universe controversy: 'Too many cooks'

By Annalyn S. Jusay

Published Dec 3, 2025 07:14 am

Actress Gloria Diaz finally broke her silence on the Miss Universe 2025 controversy, acknowledging that the pageant she once considered reputable is now facing credibility issues.

Miss Universe 1969 and actress Gloria Diaz (Instagram)

“It’s unfortunate. Miss Universe had a very credible reputation before,” Miss Universe said when interviewed before the mediacon of the Metro Manila Film Festival 2025 entry "Rekonek," directed by Jade Castro.

Calling the situation “one of a kind” and “a little bit off the proper track,” she attributed the disorder to new management within the Miss Universe Organization.

“Maybe they’re just beginners,” she remarked. “Parang nowadays, it’s very… I think magulo sila (they’re disorganized). Unfortunately, it’s that way. Kasi hindi naman sila ganun dati (the org was not like that before).”

Gloria, as Miss Universe 1969, didn’t mince words about what she believes is happening internally. “I feel that there are too many cooks. Ang daming nakikialam (too many people are meddling),” she said. “Dapat, there’s one president who makes the rules, whether it be biased or not, para hindi magulo. (There should be one leader who makes the rules so that it's not chaotic.)"

The country's first Miss Universe also urged the organization to return to using judges who are “credible” and “beyond reproach,” saying that, in her era, those selected had no agenda. “ They should get more credible judges. During my time, the judges were really beyond reproach. No agenda. Parang ganun eh. But this has been going on for some time. It’s only now that it seems a little bit more obscene.”

When asked about Ahtisa Manalo's third runner-up placement in Miss Universe this year, Gloria advised: "She can try again next year. Yun naman ang uso. Pwede ’yan. Kahit sampung beses ka pa (That’s the trend now. It’s allowed, even up to 10 times).”

Ms. Gloria Diaz (fifth from left, seated) is the senior star of 'Rekonek,' the official MMFF entry of Reality Studios, which follows six families spending Christmas Eve without internet due to a worldwide outage.

She also weighed in on Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch’s win, saying beauty pageants often come down to elements that extend beyond facial beauty.

“Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. But many times, it’s not because you’re beautiful or you’re not beautiful. It’s because you’re lucky. So maybe she was the lucky one,” she noted.

Gloria added, "It's sad." The new Miss Universe faced a lot of backlash. “She’s also beautiful. Pero pinagtulungan din siya (people ganged up on her). Maraming nag-abandon sa kanya. (A lot of people abandoned her.)”

Speculation has circulated online about the possibility of Bosch's dethronement or resignation, but Gloria observed that the new Miss Universe should hold on to her crown.

“Bakit siya mag-dethrone? Kung ako ’yan, kapit-tuko (I’d cling to it),” she said with a laugh. “Lahat naman sila deserve (They all deserve it). Pero tayong mga Pilipino, siyempre we love our own. (For us Filipinos, of course, we love our own).”

Vacation / Ferien

 Unser Übersetzungsbüro ist geschlossen: vom 20. Dezember 2025 bis  7. Januar 2026.

Our translation agency will be closed: from December 20, 2025 to January 7, 2026.

The vagus nerve ...

, or cranial nerve X, is the longest cranial nerve, running from the brainstem to the abdomen and playing a crucial role in the brain-body connection. As a key part of the parasympathetic nervous system, it regulates many involuntary bodily functions, including heart rate, digestion, and breathing, and is essential for actions like swallowing and coughing. It also transmits sensory information from organs like the heart, lungs, and gut back to the brain.  

Function

• Regulates involuntary functions: 

  It controls a wide range of automatic processes, such as heart rate, respiration, and digestion. 
• Facilitates communication: 

  It serves as a two-way "superhighway" between the brain and the body, sending sensory information from organs back to the brain and motor commands from the brain to the organs. 
Supports essential reflexes: 
It is involved in critical reflexes like swallowing, coughing, and gagging. 
Influences mood: 
Emerging evidence suggests a role in regulating mood and stress response, partly through the brain-gut axis. 

Anatomy and pathway

Origin: 
It originates in the brainstem and exits the skull through the jugular foramen. 
Course: 
It travels through the neck and thorax into the abdomen, passing through or connecting with the heart, lungs, and a large portion of the digestive tract. 
Name: 
Its name comes from the Latin word "vagus," meaning "wandering," due to its extensive pathway. 

Clinical significance

A sweet, simple twist for the Christmas table

Gulaman brings color, nostalgia and creativity to Filipino holiday feasts

By Feliciano Rodriguez III

Filipino Christmas gatherings are built on memory, passed down through handwritten recipes and stories told in warm kitchens. Among those traditions, gulaman has always had a quiet but cherished presence. I remember making brightly colored jelly with my late mother, the two of us stirring patiently as red and green liquid thickened in a pot. We cut them into shapes once they cooled, a simple holiday ritual that felt like an activity and a treat all at once. Those moments taught me that food need not be elaborate to carry meaning.

That sentiment continues today, especially with pantry staples like Mr. Hat Gulaman finding new life during the holidays. With seven flavored and six unflavored variants, it offers room for creativity, whether one prefers familiar desserts or something new. It sets quickly and requires no baking, which suits the season when the oven is full and the table is already heavy with lechon, roast chicken and pasta. A no bake dessert becomes an easy win for busy hosts.

Classic dishes such as Cathedral Window Jelly still anchor dessert spreads, but more modern ideas are gaining space beside them. Some home cooks now prepare Coffee Delight Jelly Cake or Coconut Langka Jelly, bringing lighter textures after a rich noche buena. Others serve No Steam Chocolate Pudding Cake, smooth and indulgent without extra steps. Even drinks are evolving, with Mango Tapioca Jelly or Thai Iced Milk Tea studded with soft cubes for a refreshing finish.

Families with young children may enjoy Merry and Bright Ornaments Jelly, made with strawberry and pandan flavored gulaman simmered with sugar then molded into festive shapes. After chilling, the jellies unmold like glass ornaments and brighten any Christmas table without much effort.

For a more refined option, Lychee Brulee blends lychee flavored gulaman and condensed milk before chilling in ramekins. A thin layer of sugar on top caramelizes under a flame, giving a delicate flavor and the satisfying crack of brulee without the need for baking.

These desserts travel well, store easily and can be prepared ahead. They are ideal for potlucks and family visits, staying intact even after long drives. Adjusting water measurements changes the texture from firm to gentle wobble, depending on preference.

Gulaman may be modest, but it carries memory, color and joy. On a table filled with tradition, it adds something light and festive. It honors the past and leaves room for new rituals, one jewel toned slice at a time.

Dawn Zulueta enjoying her life away from showbiz: 'I am happy'

By Robert Requintina

Undoubtedly, Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo possesses one of the most radiant and enchanting faces in Philippine showbiz, capturing the hearts of many. At this moment, she has gracefully stepped away from the spotlight, dedicating her time to the warmth and joys of family life. However, she has not entirely closed the door on her illustrious career, leaving the possibility of a triumphant return to the limelight.

Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo and daughter Ayisha Madlen Lagdameo (Marie France Facebook)

When asked what would encourage her to return to showbiz, Dawn replied, "I think it's a nice project. There have been offers, but no script has really excited me."

It seems that Dawn is currently enjoying her time away from showbiz, bonding with her family, traveling, and exploring new things.

"I'm very happy. I like it. I was able to explore my other interests. I have time with my kids. I have time to travel because my son is studying abroad. So I get to see him and also attend Ayisha (Madlen Lagdameo). I am happy," said Dawn, during the 40th anniversary of Marie France at Uma Nota in BGC,  Taguig City, recently. This is the first time Dawn and her daughter, Ayisha Madlen, have appeared together in an endorsement.

The last time Dawn appeared in a movie was in "Family History" opposite comedian Michael V. in 2019.

Lately, Dawn shared that she and her daughter have become immersed in the vibrant world of K-pop. She said her daughter was six when she fell in love with K-pop. They are both fervent admirers of the electrifying beats and dazzling performances of BTS and Blackpink, reveling in the energy and artistry that these iconic groups bring to the stage.

"Noong time na yun hindi ko pa naiintindihan. Then naging uso na sila with the dances, natuwa ako sa daughter ko and nakisabay talaga ako sa kanya. Before I knew it, nagustuhan ko na rin ang mga K-pop. (At that time, I didn't understand it. Then they became trendy with the dances. I was happy for my daughter, and I really kept up with her. Before I knew it, I also liked K-pop)," Dawn said.

Dawn crossed her fingers that she and her daughter could secure tickets for the BTS concert, tentatively scheduled for March 2026.

“I enjoy K-pop because it brings me back to when I was a teenager. I remember what it was like then, so much energy. And it's their music, the artistry, I think they are killing the choreography. They are so popular, everywhere they go," said Dawn when asked why she loves K-pop.

The teen ballerina also said that she was excited to watch the Blackpink concert in Bulacan last weekend.

"I really love spending time with my mom. She's a fun person to be with. I see her as someone I could talk to about anything. She's a cool mom," said Ayisha.

Dawn Zulueta-Lagdameo and daughter Ayisha Madlen at Marie France's 40th anniversary bash in Taguig City.

Responding, Dawn smiled and said, "I try to be cool."

Growing up, Ayisha said she would accompany her mom to shoots. "I thought it was fun. I like watching her act. It inspired me to pursue the arts."

Ayisha mentioned that while showbiz seems exciting, she is more interested in dancing.

"Her priority right now is her studies. But it's up to her what she wants to do after college," the celebrity mom said.

Dawn, now in her 50s, admits she is a strict mom. "Pretty much."

On young men trying to court Ayisha, Dawn laughed and said, "I don't deal with that. Anton (Lagdameo) deals with that. Sa mga manliligaw, si husband ang bahala d'yan. (For suitors, my husband will take care of that.)"

Dawn said she prayed for a daughter who would be interested in dancing like her.

"I've always dreamed of a daughter who could dance. When she was still in my stomach, I was saying, 'I hope she likes to dance the way I want to dance. Fortunately, she does. She's so much better at doing it than I am," she said.

Dawn shared her enjoyment with her daughter on TikTok, although she clarified that she doesn't have an account.

"I want to take this opportunity to let you know that I don't have a TikTok account. Ayisha has an account, but I love the dances on TikTok," she also said.

On aging gracefully, Dawn remarked, "Aging gracefully, I stay away from toxic people or stress. I try to keep my private life really private. I focus on my family. We all know about eating well and drinking water. But I think it's more internal. It's what happens in your mind."

My 26th Christmas in the Philippines in 2025

  By Klaus Döring

In the Philippines, Christmas is a major annual celebration, as in most countries of the Christian world. It is celebrated as a public holiday in the country on December 25, concurrent with other countries.

As one of the two predominantly Catholic countries in Asia (the other one being East Timor), the Philippines celebrates the world's longest Christmas season spanning what it refers to as the "ber months". With Christmas music played as early as August, the holiday season gradually begins by September, reaching its peak in December. 

The celebrations of Christmas in the Philippines have deep influences of Catholicism, tracing their roots back to Spanish colonial rule from 1521 to 1898. Currently, the Philippines holds the longest running festivity of the Christmas season in the world, which begins on September 1.

Christmas Day in the Philippines is primarily a family affair. The Misa de Gallo is celebrated on December 25 and is usually one of several Masses that all family members (including non-churchgoers) are present and is often celebrated between 10 pm and midnight, a schedule preferred by many Filipinos who stay up late on Christmas Eve for the night-long celebration of the Noche Buena. Fireworks and most merrymaking devices are sometimes used at the start of Christmas.

Preferably in the morning, Filipinos typically visit their extended family, especially to pay their respects to senior relatives. This custom of giving respect is enacted through the "Págmamáno". A supplicant takes the back of an elder's hand and presses it against the forehead while giving the greeting, Máno, pô (lit. "[Thy] hand, please"). The elder often responds by reciting a blessing or simply acknowledging the gesture, and in return gives "Aguinaldo" or money in the form of crisp banknotes, often placed in a sealed envelope such as an ang pao. Godparents, in particular, are socially obligated to give presents or aguinaldo to their godchildren, to whom they often give larger amounts compared to other younger relatives.

A festive lunch may follow the "Págmamáno". The menu is heavily dependent upon the finances of the family, with richer families preparing grand feasts while poorer families choose to cook simple yet special dishes. Some families choose to open presents on this day after lunch.

When nighttime falls, members of the family usually return home or linger to drink, play parlor games, and chat. Some may opt to have another feast for dinner, while a minority spend the entire day at home to rest after the previous days' festivities.

The song "Christmas in Our Hearts", released by Jose Mari Chan in 1990 has become the most famous song for Christmas in the Philippines. It is synonymous with the start of the Christmas season, often played in homes, shopping malls, and on radio stations as early as September.

For many Filipinos, simply being with friends and family is the essence of Christmas. It's the time when Balikbayan relatives come home and barkada reunions abound. Busy students and office workers take breaks to stay home with their parents.

Christmas in the Philippines became the most touching event for me since I am living here as an expat.

Christmas in the Philippines is a big deal. Unlike in most other parts of the world, Filipinos begin celebrating Christmas in September. The “ber” months, as they are called, herald the start of the Christmas season with traditional lanterns being made, carols heard in shops, and Christmas gifts stacked high on shelves. Many people ask: “Do they celebrate Christmas in the Philippines?” and the answer to that is a resounding “Yes!”