Simbang Gabi, Monito Monita, and lola’s cassava cake
Christmas in the Philippines is all about family, faith, and the spirit of giving. But more than feasts and gifts, these celebrities say the season is also about unexpected reunions, forgiveness, and remembering humble beginnings.
Lifestyle Inquirer asked some of your favorite stars how they celebrate the season. Here’s a peek into the traditions, memories, and gifts that make their Christmas memorable.
Will Ashley
“We always have a family get-together during Christmas. Siyempre, nandun lahat ng salu-salo. As a kid, I always loved receiving angpao. That’s what I used to buy food and computer stuff.”
Vince Maristela
“One of our traditions is gathering the whole Maristela side of the family. That’s always memorable for me because there are so many of us—over 40 people. We also always play bingo, and we still do it today.
In 2017, my sister living in the US, surprised the family by coming home out of the blue. I felt that was one of the best gifts I have ever received. She had been away from the Philippines for so long, so just having my sister around was priceless. Moments like that with my family really matter, especially since we’re not used to celebrating Christmas without everyone. For me, it’s really the simple things that count.”
Thea Tolentino
“Our tradition is to go to church together with the family. Meron kasi akong uncle na pari, so we usually go to the church where he serves. Doon kami nagsa-sama-sama at nagse-celebrate kapag Pasko.
We’re not really into exchanging gifts, but this Christmas season, we were able to do a family photoshoot. First time ‘yon na kumpleto kami sa photos, so it was really special for my family and me.”
Jak Roberto
“We used to visit our lola in our home province, Bulacan, and she used to prepare the food when she could still cook. Tapos namamasko kami sa mga tito at tita, ninong at ninang. We usually stay there until the New Year to celebrate. Sinusulit ko talaga ang mga araw to bond with my cousins and friends.
But since I have just moved into my newly built home, I will be spending my first Christmas there together with my mom and sister, Sanya (Lopez).
Back when I was just starting out in showbiz, I will never forget preparing the clothes I received from my sponsors to give as gifts to my cousins. Kami mismo ni Sanya ang nagbabalot ng regalo at namimili ng grocery packs para ipamigay sa mga relatives namin sa Bulacan. That’s the spirit of Christmas for us—giving and remembering Jesus Christ.”
Miggs Cuaderno
“Our tradition has always been Simbang Gabi, Noche Buena, and visiting the graves of our lolo and lola.
Since I’m in college, the iPad I received has been really useful for me. Ever since, I have been using it, and I haven’t replaced it until now. I’m really happy with that gift.”
Poppert Bernadas
“I grew up in a simple family in Davao, so our Christmas celebrations were always humble but full of warmth. We usually had a small Noche Buena at home—nothing fancy, just home-cooked dishes everyone helped prepare. One of my favorite memories is waking up on Christmas morning and eating the leftovers from the night before. Somehow, the food always tastes even better the next day. The whole house felt peaceful, and we would just enjoy the quiet morning together as a family.
My favorite gift ever was a pamana gold ring with black diopside from my mentor, National Artist for Music, Maestro Ryan Cayabyab. It wasn’t just a piece of jewelry—it felt like a symbol of trust, guidance, and the years of learning I gained under him. I treasure it deeply because it reminds me of his influence on my journey and the honor of being one of his mentees.”
Gwen Zamora
“All we do is eat, eat, and eat. That’s basically what we do every Christmas.
Since having kids, I just love giving them gifts. It doesn’t matter what the gift is because just seeing them unwrap it makes me so happy.”
Regine Tolentino
“As early as Sept. 1, we already put up our Christmas tree and decorations everywhere. It’s also our tradition to attend Mass and prepare home-cooked meals. We sleep early so we can open our gifts in the morning.
My first daughter was born in December, so she’s my greatest blessing—being a mom. For the greatest gift I have given, probably a Louis Vuitton bag for my mom, kasi pinaghirapan ko ‘yun for quite some time.”
Royce Cabrera
“We always do Monito Monita. Pagdating ng Christmas, kailangan talaga kumpleto kami—from lola hanggang sa mga apo sa tuhod. Nagkaroon ng konting problema noon sa family namin at sa Christmas nagkaayos-ayos lahat. So ‘yun ang best gift for me—love and forgiveness.”
KD Estrada
“My lola—God bless her soul, she has already passed away—but she always made cassava cake. She does so many batches, some she sells, but the ones for the family she makes extra special. Until now, we still carry that tradition.
Two Christmases ago, Alexa (Ilacad) gifted me a watch case. I love collecting watches, and I really appreciate it. It’s not the gift, it’s the thought.”
