Christmas and New Year have always been more than just holidays—they are seasons of homecomings, laughter, and reunions that warm the heart.
For many Filipinos, these are the times when distance melts away, and loved ones who have spent months or even years away in search of better opportunities return to rekindle bonds.
These traditions deeply embody the essence of family and belonging. However, in post-pandemic times, these celebrations have lost some of their vibrancy, though they remain etched in the hearts of many.
In the past, bus terminals, airports, and seaports buzzed with chaotic yet heartwarming energy—long lines, laughter, and heartfelt embraces filled the air. Travelers brimmed with excitement, eager to reunite with loved ones.
Today, that bustling spirit seems like a distant memory. Even on New Year’s Eve, these once-bustling terminals now settle into an ordinary rhythm—no rush, no palpable anticipation, just an ordinary, subdued day.
Personal account
I noticed this change firsthand during my morning journey on Tuesday, December 31, from Kabankalan City in southern Negros Occidental to Bacolod, the province’s capital.
The busea, which would have been packed with holiday travelers in previous years, now carried fewer than 20 passengers in a vehicle designed to seat more than 40.
Business operations have also shifted. In past years, many establishments closed on Christmas and New Year’s Eve to celebrate the season.
Streets would quiet down as families gathered for traditional feasts and festivities.
This year, however, many businesses stayed open. Tricycle drivers, who once celebrated with their families over a drink, now opted to ply their routes, eager to earn more money amid the holiday season.
Even the sing-alongs, once an unmistakable part of Filipino celebrations, have noticeably decreased.
In every corner of the country, videokes used to echo with cheerful renditions of Christmas classics and timeless ballads. But in 2024, the once-frequent sound of joyful singing has turned into an occasional tune.
A friend of mine, who used to return to Negros Occidental regularly for the holidays, could not make it this year.
Health concerns, personal priorities, and work commitments took precedence. Instead of spending on plane tickets, he chose to send money to his family, a practical decision he believes better serves his loved ones.
Even on New Year’s Day, his professional duties kept him busy, leaving little room for festivities.
He confided that he had become more practical this year, focusing on necessities rather than the energy-draining cycle of celebrations.
“It’s not just about the money,” he said. “It’s about conserving energy and focusing on what truly matters.”
Struggles
This scaled-down approach to the holidays isn’t unique to my province.
Research in the United States shows that Americans, too, are pulling back on celebrations.
On average, they plan to attend just three gatherings this year, compared to five last year. This subtle shift reflects changing priorities and a growing inclination toward quieter, more meaningful celebrations.
In fact, I, too, faced my own social struggles this year. I couldn’t bring myself to attend the scheduled alumni homecoming of Immaculate Conception Academy, for reasons I can’t fully explain. It felt as though my body just refused to cooperate.
To add, in Central Negros Island, thousands of families are entering the New Year without festive celebrations outside their homes, as they remain in evacuation areas following the December 9 eruption of Kanlaon Volcano and its ongoing restiveness.
Moving forward
Filipinos and Americans have distinct cultural practices, especially in celebrating the holidays and special occassions.
We, Filipinos are known for our tight-knit family connections, where every gathering is an opportunity to embrace, laugh, and share a meal. Yet, despite these cultural differences, the global trend of simplifying celebrations seems to resonate across borders.
For Filipinos, the value of family remains unshaken, but the weariness of modern life is palpable.
Many find their social batteries drained, resorting towards a quieter, less elaborate way of celebrating the holidays.
Still, the essence of the holidays—family, love, and togetherness—continues to shine, reminding us that even in simpler celebrations, the heart of the season remains unchanged.
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.