The Filipino Times asked veteran OFWs what they miss the most spending Christmas in the Philippines, how they will celebrate this special occasion in the UAE, and their advice for those experiencing the season overseas for the first time.
“On Christmas day, I will be at work, flying. My advice for those who are overseas: keep in mind the real essence of Christmas. The reason for the season is Christ. End the year with gratitude and start the year with prayer and great anticipation that your dreams and goals will come true.”
– Ian Anthony Gomez, 46, pilot, over 10 years in the UAE
“What I miss most during this time of the year is when we house-hop for Noche Buena and Media Noche. That is why our family is hosting Noche Buena and Media Noche for those who have no one else to celebrate it with here. You are all welcome to join us.”
– Efril Santarin, 50, entrepreneur, 27 years outside Philippines
“Real Christmas celebrations happen inside every apartment unit. If you go to malls or hotels – Christmas festivities come with a price tag. Back home, we can be festive in simple ways. Carols set the mood. When I was a kid, I joined other kids sing Christmas carols in our community. If we were told ‘patawad’, we just laughed it off. In our young minds, it is not about the money; it is about the joy of being able to make people happy.”
– Ion Gonzaga, 34, Blogger, 11 years in the UAE
“Going to family gatherings, giving and receiving gifts, attending Simbang Gabi, eating puto-bumbong and bibingka – these are only some of the things which I miss. For those who are spending Christmas away from home for the first time: don’t celebrate alone; be with family or friends. Go out and attend Christmas events.”
– Francis Errol Medina, 39, Head of Market Reach and Business Improvement, 14 years outside Philippines
“I will spend it with my wife at home, starting with a simple and quiet Christmas Eve dinner, hear mass on Christmas, call and greet loved ones in the Philippines, and probably meet with very close friends in the evening. New Year’s celebration will be almost the same. Self-reflection will help me set goals for a better me for the coming year.”
– Michael Keith Siodina, 44, Photographer, 20 years outside Philippines
“Since I have work on Christmas day, I will just have dinner with my housemates. And for first timers, my advice is to be strong. Celebrate with friends and flatmates. Attend Simbang Gabi so that you will still feel the spirit even if you are away from home. Call your family; video-chat with them.”
– Rocsan Cuarez, 37, accountant, 10.5 years in UAE
“I miss the misa de gallo, carols, decors. But most importantly, I miss celebrating Christmas with my family. The greatest gift I can give my family is the sacrifice of working abroad because I am doing this for my family’s future.”
– Marvin John G. Millete, 29, Registered Nurse, 3 years in the UAE
(Joanne Rico)
