The arrival of the “Ber” months in the Philippines doesn’t just signal the start of the world’s longest Christmas season; for millions of Filipino families, it marks the countdown to the homecoming of their much-missed “balikbayans”.
The journey back turns the merry month of December into a wonderful celebration of family, sacrifice, and belonging. When the beloved OFWs come home, they don’t just bring material gifts but also the priceless gift of their time and physical presence to their loved ones who missed them dearly.
Holiday family celebrations are anchored in deep-rooted Filipino traditions, which are amplified by the joy of having their loved ones’ return. Here are some activities that OFWs enjoy with their families at home, and how to make these more memorable for them:
● Noche Buena: Held just after midnight Mass, the dining table holds a lavish spread of Filipino favorites like Lechon, Queso de Bola, Christmas Ham, Pinoy Spaghetti, and Lumpia. For OFWs, this is a moment for collective thanksgiving through shared food and stories. Make this more memorable for your loved ones by ensuring that their favorite dishes will be included in the Noche Buena spread, so they feel truly special and cared for. If possible, have family members prepare these dishes together for a fun bonding activity.
● Pamasko and Aguinaldo: On Christmas Day, some Filipino families visit their older relatives and godparents. Returning OFWs often take the lead in giving the traditional aguinaldo to younger relatives, reinforcing their role as a provider. Make your loved one feel highly appreciated by not letting them drain their finances because of gifts for the family and be grateful for what they can comfortably provide.
● Balikbayan Box Unboxing: The whole family gathers to open massive boxes filled with chocolates, foreign goods, and gifts. Make this time extra special by gifting your balikbayan relatives your time, focusing on their presence more than the nice presents they brought. Schedule some “chill time” with them, like a Filipino Christmas movie marathon or enjoying midnight snacks that can be conveniently done at home.
● Grand Family Reunion: December is packed with reunions. Holding such gatherings at home allows OFWs to reconnect with the entire extended family that they may have even supported from afar. While your loved ones would be happy to have family around, also show them how you value their time by giving them some “me time” to enjoy some peace and relaxation. Better yet, you may book home service treatments for them, like a massage that they will surely appreciate and enjoy.
An extra-special Christmas
Aside from fun activities at home, invite your relatives to also enjoy some time outside like:
● Creating a “Sense of Place” Itinerary: Instead of expensive foreign travel, focus on uniquely Filipino experiences. Visit Intramuros for a historical tour, explore Binondo’s Chinatown for a food crawl, or take a quick staycation in a scenic location like Tagaytay or Baguio.
● The Family Photo Shoot: Book a professional family photoshoot. Having one complete, high-quality photograph of the whole family, including your balikbayan relatives, is a nice keepsake that documents the reunion and celebrates the family’s completeness.
● The “Home-Grown” Project: Work on a small, heartfelt project together, like creating parols or putting together donations for a charity/organization of their choice. It’s a way for OFWs to leave a lasting contribution, emphasizing their love for their home.
Holiday season in the Philippines will always be a reminder to OFWs and their families that no matter the distance, the heart of the Filipino family is, and always will be, home.
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