First, there have to be the symbols: the parol (Christmas lattern), queso de bola or hamon on the Christmas Eve spread, the caroling, finally, and most importantly, attending Simbang Gabi.
This, in a nutshell, is how Pinoys in the UAE celebrate the yuletide away from home.
In the flats are potluck Noche Buena, Christmas parties and exchange gifts.
Pinoys interviewed online were unanimous about all these, saying it’s how they keep sane.
Capping it is the obligatory overseas phone call or Skype at midnight, Manila time. “Yes, I skype and chat,” said Alaine Palad. “It’s before Noche Buene for us,” said Apple del Rosario, sales coordinator.
To keep up with the ambiance, Zeena Zalamea, TFT 2017 Media Personality of the Year awardee, said, “I make sure our Noche Buena has Pinoy items like queso de bola and hamon. And we sometimes play Pinoy Christmas songs.”
At Ana Alicante’s place, Christmas is in the air early which is very much Philippine-like. “Christmas decors are up as early as September,” she said.
