Popular Filipino Christmas Songs With Lyrics
Christmas in the Philippines is a unique and heartwarming celebration, deeply rooted in tradition and faith. One of the most beautiful aspects of this festive season is the music that fills the air. Filipino Christmas songs, or “himig ng Pasko,” are integral to the Yuletide spirit, often narrating stories of joy, family, and devotion. These songs, with their heartfelt lyrics and melodies, create a sense of warmth and togetherness that is truly special. In this article, we'll explore some of the most popular Filipino Christmas songs, complete with their lyrics, so you can sing along and fully immerse yourself in the Filipino Christmas spirit.
Traditional Filipino Christmas Carols
When we talk about traditional Filipino Christmas carols, we're diving into a rich history of songs passed down through generations. These carols, often sung in Tagalog, evoke a sense of nostalgia and deep-seated cultural identity. They are the soundtracks to countless family gatherings, Simbang Gabi masses, and joyful celebrations that define the Filipino Christmas experience. These songs aren't just melodies; they're stories, prayers, and expressions of the Filipino soul during the most wonderful time of the year. Let's explore some of these timeless classics.
"Ang Pasko ay Sumapit"
"Ang Pasko ay Sumapit" (Christmas is Here) is arguably the most recognizable Filipino Christmas song. Its melody is adapted from a pre-war Japanese song, but the lyrics, penned by Levi Celerio and Josefino Cenizal, beautifully capture the essence of the Filipino Christmas spirit. The song speaks of the joy and hope that Christmas brings, emphasizing themes of family, love, and togetherness. It’s a staple in every Filipino household during the holidays, played on the radio, sung in churches, and carolled by children. Its simple yet profound lyrics resonate with Filipinos of all ages, making it a timeless classic that continues to warm hearts year after year.
Lyrics:
Ang Pasko ay sumapit
Magsiawit tayong lahat
Pagmasdan ang paligid
Nagningningan ang ilaw
(Chorus)
Ang Pasko ay sumapit
Magsiawit tayong lahat
Pagmasdan ang paligid
Nagningningan ang ilaw
Sa puso ng bawat isa
May ligaya nang nadarama
Maging sino ka man
May ngiti sa labi
(Repeat Chorus)
"Noche Buena"
"Noche Buena" is another quintessential Filipino Christmas carol that paints a vivid picture of the traditional Christmas Eve feast. The lyrics describe a family gathering around a table laden with delicious food, celebrating the birth of Jesus. It emphasizes the importance of family and togetherness during this special time. The song's cheerful melody and heartwarming lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing for home, especially for Filipinos working or living abroad. It's a reminder of the simple joys of Christmas – being with loved ones, sharing a meal, and celebrating the spirit of the season.
Lyrics:
Sa Noche Buena'y
Ang lahat ay nagdiriwang
Mayroong nagbibigayan
Ng aginaldo't regalo
(Chorus)
Noche Buena, Noche Buena
Kay ganda ng pagsasama
Ang pamilya'y nagkakaisa
Sa pagdiriwang ng Pasko
Mayroong hamon
Queso de bola at iba pa
Salu-salo ang lahat
Sa gabing payapa
(Repeat Chorus)
Contemporary Filipino Christmas Songs
While traditional carols hold a special place in our hearts, contemporary Filipino Christmas songs bring a fresh and modern perspective to the holiday season. These songs often incorporate contemporary musical styles and address themes relevant to modern Filipino life. They reflect the evolving cultural landscape while still capturing the essence of the Filipino Christmas spirit. From upbeat pop tunes to soulful ballads, these songs offer a diverse range of musical expressions that resonate with a younger generation while still appealing to the older ones.
"Christmas in Our Hearts"
"Christmas in Our Hearts," performed by Jose Mari Chan, is undoubtedly one of the most popular contemporary Filipino Christmas songs. Released in 1990, it quickly became a Christmas staple and continues to be played every year. The song's lyrics speak of the joy and love that Christmas brings, emphasizing the importance of sharing these feelings with loved ones. Its catchy melody and heartfelt message have made it a favorite among Filipinos of all ages. Jose Mari Chan's smooth vocals and the song's simple yet profound lyrics have cemented its place as a modern Christmas classic.
Lyrics:
Whenever I see girls and boys
Selling lanterns on the streets
I remember the Child
In the manger as He sleeps
(Chorus)
Christmas in our hearts is here
Christmas in our hearts is here
Let's forget all our fears and tears
For Christmas in our hearts is here
Whenever I hear Christmas bells
I remember the love He brings
Let's all be thankful and cheer
For Christmas in our hearts is here
(Repeat Chorus)
"Miss Kita Kung Christmas"
"Miss Kita Kung Christmas" (I Miss You This Christmas) is a poignant Christmas song that speaks to the longing and loneliness felt by those who are away from their loved ones during the holidays. This song resonates deeply with the many Filipinos who work or live abroad and are unable to spend Christmas with their families. The lyrics express the pain of separation and the yearning for the warmth and comfort of home. Despite the sadness, the song also conveys a message of hope and the enduring power of love that transcends distance. It's a reminder that even though we may be physically apart, the spirit of Christmas can still unite us in our hearts.
Lyrics:
(Verse 1)
Malayo ka sa piling ko
Ngayong Pasko
Ang puso ko'y nagdurugo
Sa paglayo mo
(Chorus)
Miss kita kung Christmas
Miss kita sa New Year
Kahit hindi ka kapiling
Ikaw pa rin ang aking iibigin
(Verse 2)
Alaala ng nagdaan
Sa isipan ko'y laging buhay
Ang mga ngiti't yakap mo
Sa puso ko'y nakatago
(Repeat Chorus)
Religious Filipino Christmas Songs
Religious Filipino Christmas songs hold a central position in the celebration, reflecting the country's strong Catholic faith. These songs, often sung in churches and during Simbang Gabi, focus on the religious significance of Christmas – the birth of Jesus Christ. They are expressions of faith, gratitude, and devotion, reminding us of the true meaning of the season. These songs add a spiritual dimension to the Filipino Christmas experience, fostering a sense of reverence and connection to the divine.
"O Holy Night (Tagalog Version)"
"O Holy Night" is a classic Christmas carol that has been translated into Tagalog and embraced by Filipino Catholics. The Tagalog version beautifully captures the song's original message of hope and redemption. It is often sung during Christmas Eve mass and other religious services, adding a solemn and spiritual atmosphere to the celebrations. The song's powerful melody and profound lyrics resonate with Filipinos, reminding them of the sacredness of Christmas and the birth of Jesus Christ.
Lyrics:
O banal na gabi, bituin ay nagniningning
Ito ang gabing sinilang ang ating manunubos
Sa kanyang pagdating, mundo'y nagalak
Ang pag-asa'y sumilay, ang liwanag ay lumaganap
(Chorus)
Magsaya, o banal na gabi
Pasko ng pagsilang, ating ipagdiwang
Magsaya, o banal na gabi
Si Kristo'y isinilang, ating sambahin
"Silent Night (Tagalog Version)"
"Silent Night," another beloved Christmas carol, also has a Tagalog version that is widely sung in the Philippines. The Tagalog translation retains the song's gentle and peaceful melody, creating a sense of serenity and reflection. It is often sung during Simbang Gabi and other quiet moments of prayer and contemplation. The song's simple yet powerful message of peace and goodwill resonates with Filipinos, reminding them of the importance of love, compassion, and understanding during the Christmas season.
Lyrics:
Tahimik na gabi, banal na gabi
Ang lahat ay payapa, ang lahat ay tahimik Tanging ang ina, nagbabantay kay Hesus
Sanggol na banal, sa kanyang kandungan
(Chorus)
Tahimik na gabi, banal na gabi
Si Hesus ay isinilang, sa sabsaban nakahiga Magsiawit, mga anghel, sa langit nagpupuri
Si Hesus ay isinilang, ating sambahin
Conclusion
Filipino Christmas songs, whether traditional, contemporary, or religious, are an integral part of the Filipino Christmas experience. They evoke a sense of nostalgia, joy, and spiritual reflection, reminding us of the true meaning of the season. So, guys, this Christmas, immerse yourselves in the beauty and warmth of Filipino Christmas music. Sing along to these timeless classics and contemporary hits, and let the spirit of the season fill your hearts with love, peace, and joy. Maligayang Pasko!
