Last updated on October 29th, 2023 at 09:50 pm
As a nation with a strong background in Catholicism, it’s no surprise that the Philippines embraces Christmas with open arms. In this beautiful, vibrant nation, it’s common for festivities to begin as early as September 1st, making the celebrations in the Philippines the longest in the world.
Filipino Christmas songs are a major part of the nation’s holiday celebrations, and there are plenty of wonderful songs to choose from that will add Filipino flair to your yuletide festivities. To get you into the holiday spirit of the season, our team here at Remitly created this roundup of some of the most popular Christmas songs from the Philippines.
1. “Himig Ng Pasko” (Christmas Melody) by APO Hiking Society
Originally written in the 1960s by Serapio Y. Ramos, “Himig Ng Pasko” is one of the most popular Christmas songs in the Philippines. This song is a little unique in its message, focusing on the cool trade winds that blow through the Philippines during winter. This wind is a sign that Christmas is coming, and the lyrics discuss the joy, peace, and happiness that come to pass as these winds begin to blow.
The version on this list is one of the most popular. It has a whimsical, nostalgic feel that will transport you to a peaceful Christmas—Filipino style.
2. “Namamasko” (Masked) by the New Minstrels
“Namamasko” is a traditional song enjoyed in the Philippines during Christmas, and you’re likely to hear it sung by choirs during the many weeks of holiday festivities. It has a playful, almost whimsical tone, making it ideal for lighthearted celebrations. Its message is similar to songs like “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” or “Here We Come A-Carolling,” with lyrics asking a Christmas host for gifts in exchange for the singing of the carol.
Our favorite is a version by The New Minstrels, which combines the fun melody of the original carol with a stunning (and almost dramatic) singing rendition by the choir.
3. “Ang Pasko ay Sumapit” (Christmas is Coming) by Vicente D. Rubi
A traditional Filipino Christmas song, “Ang Pasko ay Sumapit,” was originally written and composed in the 1930s. Still, it has endured ever since as a beloved part of the Philippines’ Christmas tradition. There are versions in Tagalog and Cebuano (two major languages used in the Philippines) and bilingual versions combining both. This is a common song during Christmas time in the Philippines, often sung at religious services and by church choirs.
The lyrics of “Ang Pasko ay Sumapit” have a religious angle on celebrating Christmas, heralding the birth of Christ, and rejoicing in the feeling of joy, love, and togetherness. We chose a version by the Bayanihan Philippine Dance Company, with a bombastic instrumental complimented by a large, lively choir to sing the lyrics.
4. “Pasko Na Naman” (It’s Christmas Again) – Levi Celerio and Felipe Padilla de León
For something a little different, take “Pasko Na Naman,” a more pop-music-inspired take on a Filipino Christmas carol. Initially written by Levi Celerio (with composition from Felipe Padilla de León), this song has countless versions, from full choirs to singer-songwriters to everything in between. Considered a Felipe de Leon classic, this song has a simple but joyous message, rejoicing that Christmas is here and it’s time to celebrate. The fun melody and simple lyrics make this ideal for kids.
The version we chose is by Janet Basco — a poppy, fun carol perfect for a nostalgic Christmas dance with friends and family.
5. “Pasko Na Sinta Ko” (It’s Christmas Now, My Love) by Gary Valenciano
Looking for something a little more romantic and sentimental this year? “Pasko Na Sinta Ko” is exactly what you need. This stunning number is about missing someone special on Christmas and hoping for their return.
While it’s a little on the sad side, the original version by Gary Valenciano (included on our playlist) is still a gorgeous number and reminds us to cherish our loved ones this season.
6. “Nakaraang Pasko” (Christmas Past) by Kuh Ledesma
For something on the happier side, you can’t go wrong with “Nakaraang Pasko.” Though there are countless versions and interpretations of this famously romantic Christmas carol, they all share the same message: the newfound meaning of Christmas when it’s shared with a special someone.
This sentimental, emotional Christmas song is imbued with nostalgic synths that will take you back to simpler times. And the stunning vocals on the version by Kuh Ledesma are guaranteed to leave you feeling a little misty-eyed.
7. “Sana Ngayong Pasko” (I Hope This Christmas) by Ariel Rivera
For this Filipino Christmas song, we turn to Ariel Rivera, a famous singer from Manila. It’s common to hear “Sana Ngayong Pasko” in the Philippines during the long Christmas season, and for good reason. This song is about the feeling of incompleteness when your beloved isn’t with you for Christmas. And while the message is on the melancholy side, Rivera’s beautiful delivery and the swooning composition give the song a triumphant, hopeful feeling.
If you’re looking for an excellent song for a slow dance by the Christmas tree, this is the tune you need to put on your playlist!
8. “Miss Kita Kung Christmas” by various artists
Written by Hermie Uy and Fe Ayala, this “Miss Kita Kung Christmas” was originally released by Susan Fuentes in 1975, and countless other artists, including Sarah Geromino, Ronnie Liang, Sharon Cuneta, and Ice Seguerra, have covered it.
A pop ballad, the song speaks about missing a lover during Christmas. Our pick for your Pinoy Christmas playlist is the original version, as it was one of the first Christmas songs to feature the Manila Sound, a style of music that blends both English and Filipino lyrics.
9. “Tuloy Na Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Pasko” by APO Hiking Society
In 1991, the APO Hiking Society released an 11-track album of original Christmas songs. By far, the most popular song on the album is “Tuloy Na Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Pasko,” which shares the message that Christmas is about friends, family, and religion, not how much money you have.
The uplifting song can be heard on the radio in the Philippines each year. It’s also a popular choice for Christmas carolers to sing as they go from house to house, spreading joy.
10. “Boogie Woogie Christmas Day” by VST & Company
Released in 1979 during the height of the disco craze, “Boogie Woogie Christmas Day“ is the perfect choice of music to get everyone at your holiday party dancing.
Even though disco may be past its prime, the blend of funk, soul, and pop this song delivers has always stayed in style. Plus, the lyrics are in both English and Tagalog, so everyone attending your bash will be able to sing along.
11. “Christmas in Our Hearts” by Jose Mari Chan
This 1990 hit by Jose Mari Chan has a catchy melody and a sentimental message. The lyrics describe the nostalgic feeling you get when you see Christmas lights, exchange gifts, and participate in all the other Christmas traditions. It also has a religious meaning, reminding listeners of the reason for the season.
Since it is a modern Christmas carol written in English, this song is a great pick for expat Christmas singalongs, and it will remind overseas Filipino workers of home.
12. “Mano po Ninong” by Pilita Corrales
Christmas is all about family and friends in the Philippines, and the song “Mano po Ninong“ is a reminder of that.
Written by Ryan Cayabyab, this cheerful song is about giving thanks to godmothers and godfathers for all they do during the year. It describes the Filipino tradition of children kissing or touching the foreheads of their elders.
13. “Sa Paskong Darating” by Celeste Legaspi
Released in 1981, this Christmas tune is a surefire smile-sparker. Legaspi’s soulful voice delivers a whimsical message about wanting to be someone special’s Santa Claus by bringing them apples, grapes, candy, and chocolate.
The underlying message of this cheerful holiday song is to put aside your worries and cares and join in the fun of the holiday season.
Stay Connected on Christmas and Year-Round
There you have it—thirteen of the most popular Christmas songs from the Philippines! While you’ll hear many other songs during the Christmas season, these are some of the most well-known, and each one is a fantastic introduction to the stunning tradition of Filipino holiday music.
Many of these songs discuss separation from your loved ones over the holidays. And while it’s challenging to be without your friends and family during the winter months, you don’t have to go through the season without connecting!
Remitly’s international money transfer app lets families stay in touch and share the Christmas spirit no matter where they are. It’s safe, fast, and free to download, allowing you to stay close to your loved ones anywhere in the world. Learn more about Remitly, and give it a try for free today.