FOR FILIPINOS, Christmas is more than just a religious festival; it is a time of great joy, family gatherings, and, most importantly, food. 

It’s a long-awaited event that honors the true spirit of Filipino culture. 

The Yuletide season celebrates the rich culinary traditions passed down through centuries. With the abundance of food that comes with the holiday, the Philippines’ Christmas is a feasting season.

Moreover, as most people believe, Christmas foods bring people together. No matter what you’re doing in life or where you’ve come from, these seasonal recipes will always bring back all of your memories in just one taste.

Generation Z, in particular, understands how food influences their holiday experience. For them, Christmas is about more than just the food, but also the environment it generates. 

This is why republicasia conducted an interview with Gen Z personalities from various industries, asking them which Christmas food is the most iconic and sharing some of the dishes they’re most excited about this year.

A Gen Z Actor’s Choice

Kimson Tan, a Gen Z actor, starred in GMA’s teleserye Lovers & Liars. He was also part of the international cast for King of Hawkers, which debuted in Singapore and Malaysia earlier this year. 

Aside from being a Sparkle GMA Artist, he also runs a young but successful Aqua Party Club in Malate, Manila. Tan is looking forward to the holiday feast following a busy year packed with accolades. 

He considers Bibingka to be one of the most iconic Christmas meals in the Philippines. “It’s always tied to the Filipino tradition of Simbang Gabi, which makes it extra special,” said the 25-year-old actor.

Photo Courtesy: @kimsontann | Instagram

“The soft, fluffy texture paired with salted egg, butter, and coconut creates that perfect balance of flavors that brings back warm Christmas memories,” he added.

While most of us are anticipating the heaviest meals we can think of for Christmas, Tan has an unusual but ideal pick for this year’s chilly season.

“I’m excited for tsokolate, batirol. Even if it’s available all year round, the cold weather during Christmas makes it more comforting and enjoyable. It’s that warm, sweet drink that perfectly matches the holiday spirit,” he said.

The Athletes’ “Cheat Day” Choice

Of course, every athlete has their own “cheat day” on certain occasions, as a way to reward themselves for the hard work they’ve put in all year for all the events they compete in while representing their schools. 

For Harvey Pagsanjan, one of Emilio Aguinaldo College’s team captains and leading scorers, the most famous Christmas cuisine remains Hamon and Lechon, identifying it as the go-to in their province. 

Photo Courtesy: GMA Sports PH

Pagsanjan is currently undergoing high-intensity workouts in preparation for his stint with Pangasinan in the MPBL, with an eye on the PBA Draft next year. However, a small amount of pork won’t hurt too much.

“Lechon Baboy pinaka nilo-look forward ko. For us kasi na athletes, our conditioning coach wants us to limit pork talaga. So every Christmas, ayun lang ‘yung pinaka ‘cheat day’ ko for the whole year,” he said.

Meanwhile, Vigie Calleja, 23, one of the team captains of the UAAP Cheerdance Competition champions, the NU Pep Squad, considers fruit salad and pasta to be her most iconic Christmas foods. 

Photo Courtesy: @vigieanncalleja | Instagram

Calleja, one of NU’s most in-shape and well-conditioned flyers, is hoping for some sweets this year. This is one of the ways she treats herself after their hard-fought redemption victory.

“Since tapos na rin ang UAAP CDC, what I’m looking forward to is the iconic desserts during the Christmas season, like mango graham, buko pandan, leche flan, and macaroni salad. A bit of the sweets lang,” she said.

A PPOP Girl Group Member’s Go-To

Puto Bumbong will always be one of the most famous Christmas delicacies in the Philippines, according to Elle Pascual, a member of CALISTA, the country’s emerging P-Pop girl group.

“It’s special because Filipinos know that when it’s available, it’s Christmas time. You can usually find it being sold outside churches during Simbang Gabi,” the 23-year-old. 

Photo Courtesy: @calistamusiocifficial | Instagram

Pascual wants to treat herself to a famous dessert this Christmas season after a year of rigorous preparation and performance, particularly during BLACKOUT: The Kick-Off alongside other P-Pop groups.

“This year, I am looking forward to eating Mango Graham because a meal isn’t complete without dessert,” she said. 

We Deserve The “Holiday Gains”

With the amount of food, parties, and gift-giving that the season brings, there is frequently an underlying fear about “holiday gains,” especially for those striving to maintain a healthy lifestyle. 

However, holiday gains should not be an issue. Maintaining a strict diet during a time of celebration can undermine the true essence of the season, as these individuals can attest.

“Holiday gains are well-deserved because sharing food with family and friends during reunions is priceless,” said Tan, an awardee of the 8th Outstanding Men & Women of the Philippines 2025.

“Christmas is about celebrating love, joy, and togetherness. Worrying about a little extra eating takes away from the happiness of the season. We all deserve to enjoy these moments fully,” he added.

For CALISTA member Pascual, “Christmas is a time to enjoy good food and create memories with loved ones. No need to worry too much about it, just enjoy the moment and start fresh in the new year!”

Remember The True Meaning of Christmas

Aside from the feast that will satisfy our appetites, understanding the true spirit of the season will warm our hearts. The celebration of Jesus’ birth has evolved into a lively statement of faith and family.

“Christmas celebrations are very important to me because it’s a time for family bonding and creating special memories with the people who matter most,” the actor Tan said.

“It’s also a meaningful season to reflect on and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, which reminds us of love, gratitude, and the true essence of giving.”

“For me, being surrounded by family and remembering this significant event makes Christmas the most special time of the year,” he went on to say.

The diverse nature of Christmas in the Philippines exemplifies the country’s deep devotion to an ever-expanding community, the value of family, and the joy of sharing and giving. 

Let the Christmas season fill our hearts and tummies with wonderful memories and meals. A season that will allow us to rest and recharge before embarking on another tough year.