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Christmas in the PhilippinesMaligayang Pasko Simbang
Gabi Click here for recipes from the Philippines! One of the most prominent Christmas traditions in the Philippines is played by the Parol, lanterns in various colors, shapes and sizes that represent the star of Bethlehem. Replacing wax candles originally used in the early centuries, electric candles now light the lanterns. Parols showcase some of the Filipinos distinctive qualities: ingenuity, hospitality and passion for hope and peace. Hung on doors and windows, beginning in November, Parols keep the country aglow with magnificent sparkle. Foremost of all decorations are the “Parol” and the “Belen.” Parol is the star-shaped lantern made of indigenous materials like bamboo and Japanese paper or colored plastic. It is hanged over the door entrance or on windows. Belen is a nativity set, displayed anywhere in public or in homes.
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Right
after the mass, children visit
their grandparents and godparents
to ask for blessings They
kiss the hands of their elders
or bringing the elders right
hand and placed them to their
forehead as a gesture of respect
and greeting. This custom
is called "mano".
On the first day of simbang
gabi, people display their
favorite Christmas decorations,
one of the most important
of which is the "Parol".
