Christmas in the Philippines is a unique and vibrant celebration, deeply rooted in tradition, faith, and family. A huge part of this celebration is the music that fills the airwaves, homes, and churches from as early as September. These Filipino Christmas songs are more than just tunes; they are anthems that encapsulate the spirit of Pasko (Christmas). Let’s dive into some of the most beloved Filipino Christmas songs, complete with their lyrics, so you can sing along and fully immerse yourself in the Yuletide cheer!

Traditional and Contemporary Filipino Christmas Songs

"Ang Pasko ay Sumapit"

"Ang Pasko ay Sumapit," which translates to "Christmas Has Arrived," is arguably the most iconic Filipino Christmas song. Composed by Levi Celerio with music by Felipe Padilla de León, this song is a staple in every Filipino Christmas celebration. Its melody is adapted from a pre-war march, giving it a nostalgic and timeless quality. The song speaks of the joy and hope that Christmas brings, emphasizing themes of family, love, and togetherness. It’s impossible to imagine a Filipino Christmas without hearing this song at least once, if not a dozen times!

The lyrics are simple yet profound, resonating with Filipinos of all ages and backgrounds. It evokes images of families gathering together, sharing meals, and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. The song’s enduring popularity lies in its ability to capture the essence of the Filipino Christmas spirit – warm, familial, and deeply spiritual. When "Ang Pasko ay Sumapit" plays, you know Christmas is truly here, guys!

Lyrics:

Ang Pasko ay sumapit

Tayo'y mangagsi-awit

Ng magagandang himig

Dahil sa Diyos ay pag-ibig

(Christmas has arrived

Let us sing

Beautiful melodies

Because of God's love)

Bawat puso'y nagagalak

Ang dating hirap ay di na alintana

Nating isipin pa

(Every heart rejoices

The past hardships are no longer cared for

Let us not think about them anymore)

Ang Pasko ay sumapit

Langitn lumuluwalhati

Ang araw na ito'y

Pagsilang ni Jesus

(Christmas has arrived

Heaven glorifies

This day is

The birth of Jesus)

"Sa May Bahay ang Aming Bati"

"Sa May Bahay ang Aming Bati" is a traditional carol sung by children as they go from house to house, spreading Christmas cheer. The song is a polite and respectful greeting to the homeowners, asking for a small donation or gift in exchange for their singing. This practice, known as pangangaroling, is a cherished tradition that embodies the spirit of community and sharing during the Christmas season. The lyrics are simple and heartfelt, reflecting the innocence and joy of childhood.

This carol is not just about receiving gifts; it’s about bringing joy to others. The children who sing "Sa May Bahay ang Aming Bati" are essentially messengers of Christmas, spreading happiness and goodwill throughout the neighborhood. It’s a tradition that teaches them the value of sharing, generosity, and community spirit. Every time I hear kids singing this, it brings back so many good memories!

Lyrics:

Sa may bahay ang aming bati

'Merry Christmas' na maluwalhati

Ang pag-ibig maghari

Sa buong sangkatauhan

(To the homeowners, we give our greetings

A glorious 'Merry Christmas'

May love reign

Over all of humanity)

Ang Pasko ay pasasaan

Bago dumating

Kami'y nagagalak

Na kayo'y dalawin

(Christmas is coming soon

Before it arrives

We are happy

To visit you)

"Pasko na Sinta Ko"

"Pasko na Sinta Ko," which translates to "It’s Christmas, My Love," is a poignant and sentimental Christmas song that speaks of longing and missing a loved one during the holiday season. This song, popularized by Gary Valenciano, captures the emotions of Filipinos who are far away from their families or separated from their loved ones during Christmas. It’s a song that resonates deeply with those who experience the bittersweet feeling of being alone during what is supposed to be the most joyful time of the year.

The lyrics are filled with longing and nostalgia, painting a picture of a lonely Christmas spent without the presence of a beloved partner. Despite the sadness, the song also carries a message of hope and resilience, reminding listeners that love transcends distance and time. "Pasko na Sinta Ko" is a reminder that even in the midst of loneliness, the spirit of Christmas – with its message of love and hope – can still bring comfort and solace.

Lyrics:

Pasko na sinta ko

Ang lamig ng hangin

Parang yakap mo

(It's Christmas, my love

The coldness of the wind

Feels like your embrace)

Kahit wala ka

Ika'y nandito

Sa puso ko

(Even though you're not here

You are here

In my heart)

Sana'y kapiling ka

Sa Pasko't Bagong Taon

Malaman mo sana

Na mahal kita

(I wish you were with me

On Christmas and New Year

I hope you know

That I love you)

"Christmas in Our Hearts"

"Christmas in Our Hearts," sung by Jose Mari Chan, is one of the most popular modern Filipino Christmas songs. Released in 1990, this song has become a Christmas staple, played in every shopping mall, radio station, and family gathering during the holiday season. Its upbeat melody and heartwarming lyrics celebrate the joy and love that Christmas brings, emphasizing the importance of family, faith, and togetherness. The song’s universal appeal has made it a favorite among Filipinos of all ages.

What makes "Christmas in Our Hearts" so special is its ability to capture the essence of the Filipino Christmas spirit in a contemporary way. The lyrics are simple yet meaningful, speaking of the importance of sharing love and joy with one another. The song also highlights the religious aspect of Christmas, reminding listeners of the true meaning of the season – the birth of Jesus Christ. This song is a must-listen every Christmas, and I bet you can't resist singing along!

Lyrics:

Whenever I see girls and boys

Selling lanterns on the streets

I remember the Child

In the manger as He sleeps

Wherever there are people

Giving gifts, exchanging cards

I believe that Christmas

Is truly in their hearts

Let's light our Christmas trees

For a bright and joyful season

And may the spirit of Christmas

Fill our hearts and homes with love

"Namamasko"

"Namamasko" is another traditional Filipino Christmas carol often sung by children during pangangaroling. The song is a request for a Christmas gift or donation, sung in a cheerful and respectful manner. The lyrics express the joy and excitement of the Christmas season, as well as the hope for a generous contribution from the homeowners. This carol is a simple yet heartfelt expression of the Filipino Christmas spirit.

This song is more than just a request for a gift; it’s a celebration of the Christmas season. The children who sing "Namamasko" are spreading cheer and goodwill throughout the community, bringing smiles to the faces of those they visit. It’s a tradition that reinforces the values of community, sharing, and generosity, making it a valuable part of the Filipino Christmas experience. Plus, it's super cute to see little kids singing their hearts out!

Lyrics:

Namamasko po!

Kami'y namamasko po!

Ang Pasko ay dumarating

Kami'y nagagalak

(We are caroling!

We are caroling!

Christmas is coming

We are rejoicing)

Kung kami'y perahan

Kami'y pasasalamat

Kung kami'y pagkainan

Kami'y magagalak

(If you give us money

We will be thankful

If you give us food

We will be happy)

Why These Songs Matter

These Filipino Christmas songs are more than just melodies; they are cultural treasures that embody the spirit of Pasko in the Philippines. They evoke memories of family gatherings, joyful celebrations, and the simple pleasures of the holiday season. Whether it's the timeless classic "Ang Pasko ay Sumapit" or the modern favorite "Christmas in Our Hearts," these songs resonate deeply with Filipinos, bringing warmth, joy, and a sense of belonging.

Singing these songs together as a family or community creates a sense of unity and shared identity. They remind us of the values that are most important during Christmas – love, generosity, and faith. These songs are a way to connect with our heritage and celebrate the traditions that make the Filipino Christmas so unique and special. They are the soundtrack to our Pasko memories, and they continue to bring joy to generations of Filipinos.

So, this Christmas, make sure to include these iconic Filipino Christmas songs in your celebrations. Sing along with your family and friends, and let the music fill your hearts with the spirit of Pasko! Maligayang Pasko (Merry Christmas) to all! Let's keep the tradition alive and share the joy of Filipino Christmas music with the world. These songs are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines and a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. They are a gift that keeps on giving, year after year.