Mabini Grounds, Malacañang
December 22, 2024

Three (3) days before Christmas, the festive spirit continues to be felt at the Mabini Grounds in Malacañang as the public gathers for the Misa de Gallo to complete their novena — a cherished tradition of attending Mass for nine (9) consecutive days in anticipation of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Attendees share how the ‘Simbang Gabi’ tradition symbolizes the country’s unwavering devotion, providing a sense of hope and unity despite the challenges they have faced over the past year, emphasizing that faith will always light the way forward.

As the Mass concludes, visitors are invited to indulge in the heartwarming flavors of the season with delicious treats like bibingka, puto bumbong and hot tsokolate. These delicacies provide a perfect taste of Filipino holiday traditions and the warmth of togetherness.

The Office of the President (OP) welcomed the holiday season with a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Kalayaan Grounds in Malacañang on December 1. During the event, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. urged Filipinos to remember the victims and those still recovering from the devastation caused by a series of typhoons and other natural disasters, calling on his countrymen to extend help to those in need.

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