Christmas comes early in the Philippines as ‘ber months’ kick off four-month countdown

MANILA, September 9 - The Philippines begins its four-month countdown to Christmas, with September 1 marking the start of the "ber months." Even though the holiday is still four months away, shops in Manila's city block-sized market are already overflowing with Christmas decorations. Radio stations play Christmas carols, and the country's large shopping malls unveil their most impressive displays.

Sales clerk Cora Lansangan, 73, noted that the store had been stocked by July 31, attracting shoppers buzzing around displays of Christmas trees, ornaments, reindeer, mangers, and festive lanterns. Kathlene Santidad, 33, a real estate agent, expressed relief at seeing Christmas trees early, despite the hardships in daily life. She had been shopping for decorations since she disliked crowds and wanted to select specific items at her own pace.

Sociologist Mark Godwin Villareal emphasized that the "ber months" bring a sense of continuity and stability during challenging times, allowing Filipinos to anticipate better conditions ahead. The countdown includes decorating in September, saving for gifts and food for reunions in October, and the all-important midnight meal on Christmas Eve.

Over 100,000 overseas Filipino workers typically return home during this period. Many shopping malls, like those operated by SM Supermalls, have already begun decorating weeks early to give shoppers more time to enjoy the experience. In Pampanga province, lantern-makers, despite recent flooding, remain enthusiastic about their craft, as the waterproof lanterns are a must-have for Filipino homes.

The decorations will remain up until January 6, the day when the three wise men presented gifts to the infant Jesus.