They put the ‘Filipino’ in a Filipino American Christmas
Christmas celebrations in California are quieter and less festive compared to the ones in Bacoor, Cavite, where actor-stage performer Jojo Riguerra grew up.
“I cherish the festive spirit of Christmas back home, particularly the traditional food and family reunions,” said Riguerra, who relocated with his wife and kids to Los Angeles in 2019. “These gatherings have become a cherished custom in my family. We engage in caroling and gift-giving, or what we call aguinaldo in Filipino, while celebrating the birth of our Savior.”
The American Christmas is “less activity-filled,” said Riguerra, who is also a part-time health care worker. “I’m grateful for the vibrant Filipino American communities that host various events and celebrations here. We continue to uphold our tradition of family reunions. This also ensures that I can connect with my relatives who are here.”
Since moving to the United States, Riguerra and his wife Alexis Aubrey, also an actor and events host, have made it a tradition to organize the annual “Paskong Pinoy” event, produced by USA Philippines Business Association. This gathering, which will be held this year on Dec. 8 in West Covina, is an opportunity for Filipino Americans to celebrate and enjoy food, music, community, and culture.
The couple will also be hosting Starlink’s “Paskong Kay Saya” on Dec. 13 in Burbank, California.
“Following these wonderful celebrations, our family plans to travel to Las Vegas for the holidays while simultaneously continuing the filming of our upcoming TV series, ‘Maid to Shine,’ directed by Giovannie Espiritu for the FilAm TV Network, set to stream in February 2025. Merry Christmas, mga kababayan!” said Riguerra.
