December 12, 2024 | 12:00am
The Filipino Christmas celebration is truly one of a kind. We are known for having the longest holiday season in the world, with the festivities beginning as early as September. We see public spaces transformed with vibrant decorations, and we hear the iconic melody of Jose Mari Chan’s “Christmas in Our Hearts” as it fills malls, signaling the start of a season unlike any other.
Despite challenges that the country faced in 2024 – notably the series of powerful typhoons in the last quarter- Christmas remains a festive season for Filipinos, many of whom are eager to spend time with families and celebrate.
In his speech during the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the Malacañang grounds, President Marcos said, “…despite everything, every Filipino should feel somehow Christmas.” As he called on everyone to extend compassion to those in need, President Marcos also acknowledged that the Christmas spirit remains unshakable in the hearts of Filipinos.
Thankfully, holiday cheer doesn’t have to come at a steep price. Across the country, free attractions allow families and friends to immerse themselves in the festive spirit without breaking the bank. An example of this is the Meralco Liwanag Park in Ortigas, Pasig City as well as in Intramuros, Manila. These holiday displays – which are free to the public – offer Filipinos an opportunity to enjoy the Christmas season without breaking the bank.
With the theme “Paskong Pinoy,” the Meralco Liwanag Park in Ortigas is a vibrant display of bright, colorful lights that showcase various Filipino festivals. Open to the public for free until Dec. 31, 2024, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily, it has become a must-visit destination to bond and celebrate. Another version of the Liwanag Park can be found in Intramuros, offering visitors a unique blend of Philippine history and holiday magic and is open to the public until Jan. 6, 2025.
These attractions are more than just festive spectacles, they also help stimulate economic activity. By drawing crowds to the said areas, they create opportunities for local vendors and businesses in the vicinity.
For many families, visiting these free attractions offers a chance to bond and immerse themselves in the Christmas spirit. While admission comes at no cost, visitors still contribute to the local economy by purchasing food, supporting nearby vendors and helping promote domestic tourism.
In Intramuros, for example, street food vendors and nearby establishments benefit from the influx of visitors. As they enjoy local delicacies and buy from small businesses, this consequently stimulates local economic activity.
Christmas in the Philippines is not only a festive, cultural affair – it is also an economic powerhouse. The season sparks a surge in consumer spending, as Filipinos eagerly prepare for celebrations, travel and gift-giving, stimulating demand for goods and services from various sectors, especially food and beverage, retail, entertainment and tourism.
According to the Department of Budget and Management, this year’s holiday spending is expected to significantly boost economic activity, helping the country meet its full-year growth target of 6.7 percent for 2024. Historically, the fourth quarter sees the strongest spike in consumer spending.
The good news is that the ripple effect of increased consumer spending extends to various industries, all of which benefit the economy as a whole. The tourism sector, for example, benefits from the influx of travelers – whether for vacation in popular destinations or to return to their hometowns for the holidays. This, in turn, boosts the hospitality industry – from airlines, hotels, transportation and food and beverage.
Overall, with holiday spending expected to rise until the end of the year and free attractions like the Meralco Liwanag Park spreading joy, the season serves as an enabler for economic growth.
It serves as a reminder that the holiday season is a time of opportunity – whether through consumer spending or free attractions – this time of the year presents far-reaching benefits for local businesses, tourism and communities.
As we embrace the warmth and joy of the holidays, let us celebrate not just the cheer, but along with it, the possibilities it brings, all toward uplifting lives, and driving economic development.
My fervent wish is for every Filipino to feel the magic of Christmas, and may the season continue to shine bright for all.
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