Danisse Ann M.

Torres Reflection V
BEED 3B
THE MAITINES AND PASCUNG PANARA IN CONCEPCION, TARLAC
Christmas is more than just a celebration; for most Filipino-Christians it is a way
of welcoming the coming of their savior Jesus Christ. Being in a country were catholic is
dominant, church plays a big role when it comes to Christmas, for the nine dawns before
Christmas they have something called Simbang Gabi where they attend mass for the
nine mornings leading up to Christmas. I think it is believed that if you attend all the
masses, you can make a wish. And since it was really early in the morning and a bit chilly
Filipinos normally look for something warm to eat and there are vendors selling food such
as Puto Bumbong and Bibingka. Simbang Gabi is forever a part of the Filipino Christmas
which is distinct from other countries who also celebrates Christmas. Another tradition is
the reunion and for young Filipinos, it is the time when most grins are seen, parents are
less likely to scold them, schoolworks do not give too much pressure because there’s
none, candies and chocolates fill their stomachs, and ninangs and ninongs finally appear
with their heart-warming gifts or aguinaldos, best dresses are worn, and new shoes
pamper their feet. For the old ones, this is the time when “thank you” becomes a common
expression, sweatshirts and long sleeves which were kept in the deepest part of the closet
are finally worn, and friends, both old and new, finally meet for the longest time.
I learned that once upon a time Christmas in Concepcion is like this. I realized
that, even if it is in the past, Christmas is one of the most awaited celebrations of every
Filipinos. Though many things have changed like the Panara and Maitines is no longer
practiced. Still, the essence of Christmas still remained. Hoping that in the future this
tradition will still be practiced and will continue. Because it says that it’s the most
wonderful time of the year.