CAROLING is a treasured Filipino custom with great cultural and emotional significance for many people. Every year, as Christmas approaches, the sound of carols fills the air.
The streets are crowded with children, families, and friends singing happy tunes from door to door. This practice is more than simply a method to spread holiday pleasure; it embodies Filipino principles of community.
Caroling in the Philippines is also associated with generosity, as it is usual for families or businesses to offer carolers who serenade their houses modest sums of money or treats.
Heart and soul of Christmas
Furthermore, the activity evokes nostalgia in many Filipinos. The ritual conjures happy recollections of childhood, family gatherings, and simpler times, which warm our hearts.
Caroling is a chance for many people to relive their childhood delights while also passing down this valuable tradition to the next generation. Some of the highlights are beloved tunes and shared moments of affection.
Caroling helps Filipinos keep the spirit of Christmas alive by reminding everyone of the value of giving, sharing, and getting together at the most lovely time of year.
Given the significance or expectation of the practice, below are some of the most iconic caroling songs that Gen Zs, and even younger generations, may sing their hearts out when going around houses.
Old, but gold
As they say, old is gold. When it comes to creating a carol playlist, ancient and iconic songs always strike a chord. These things will always be a go-to when the holiday season arrives.
Namamasko, without a doubt, is at the top of the all-time song list since it is one of the country’s most iconic carols. Despite the fact that it was previously nameless, this song has become well-known.
With children swarming to your doorway and hearing only the first few lines of “Sa maybahay, ang aming bati, Merry Christmas!” na maluwalhati,” childhood memories will soon return to you.
Ang Pasko ay Sumapit, is another popular song among carolers of all ages. Levi Celerio, a national artist who also penned the lyrics in the 1950s, is known for writing a song that is being performed today.
The iconic lines, “Ang Pasko ay sumapit, tayo ay mangagsiawit, ng magagandang himig, dahil sa ang Diyos ay pag-ibig,” will undoubtedly give you shivers and make you nostalgic for the folks you will visit.
Pasko Na Naman, another tune composed by lyricist Celerio and composer Felipe Padilla de Leon, is one of the most upbeat carols you’ve ever heard. This tune will undoubtedly evoke Christmas feelings.
“Pasko na naman o kay tulin ng araw, paskong nagdaan tila ba kung kailan lang. Ngayon ay pasko dapat pasalamatan, ngayon ay pasko tayo ay mag-awitan,” once you hear this, your money will surely won’t go to waste.
Caroling in the Philippines is more than just a Christmas ritual; it is an important statement of community, faith, generosity, and cultural pride. It fosters relationships and honors the religious significance of Christmas.
This practice helps Filipinos keep the spirit of Christmas alive by reminding everyone of the value of giving, sharing, and getting together at the most lovely time of year.
How about you? What are some of the most memorable caroling tunes you sang as a child? Leave a comment down below.
