What are the top Philippine holidays? Before we list them down, let’s talk about the love of Filipinos for festivities and holidays. This nature can be traced all the way back to the Spanish regime. In fact, a festive culture is one of the influences of the Spaniards now deeply rooted in our Philippine culture all these years.
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Filipinos are also one of the most optimistic and blissful people on earth. Yes, it is true that we are a part of a Third World nation, yet this doesn't stop us from commemorating top Philippine holidays of the year. It is the reason why up until today, family ties and strong bonds of kinship are still practiced. The more we spend time celebrating the holidays with our families, the more that it knits us together.
So if you want to learn more about the top Philippine holidays, here is a list of the ten most celebrated holidays in the Philippines you should mark your calendar with.
Bagong Taon (New Year Jan. 1)
Bagong Taon or New Year is the noisiest, grandest, and the happiest part of the year. Among the top Philippine holidays, this is is when every Philippine household will light firecrackers to welcome the first day of the year. The tradition of lighting up firecrackers and creating noises is believed to shove away bad luck for the upcoming year.
Chinese New Year (Jan. 23)
Even though we are not Chinese, one of the most anticipated top Philippine holidays of the year is commemorating the Chinese Spring Festival.
People Power Revolution Anniversary (Feb. 25)
It is one of the top Philippine holidays where we commemorate the People Power revolution against Ferdinand Marcos’s dictatorial regime. It is the birth of the real Philippine Democracy.
Semana Santa (April 5-6)
Eighty percent of the Philippine population is comprised of Catholics and Christians. Thus, a day of contemplating the Last Supper and the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ along with His Resurrection is observed yearly.
Independence Day (June 12)
It is one of the top Philippine holidays when the proclamation of the Philippine Independence Day from the foreign tyrannies of the Spanish era is remembered. It was headed by Emilio Aguinaldo on June 12, 1898.
Eidt’l Fitr (Aug 18)
It will be the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. Eidt’l Fitr is one of the top Philippine holidays when we pay respect to our Muslim brothers.
All Souls/Saints Day (Undas, Nov. 1)
Among the top Philippine holidays, this is the time where Filipinos flock to cemeteries all throughout the country to visit and pay respect to the graves of their departed loved ones.
Bonifacio Day (Nov. 30)
Andres Bonifacio, one of the Philippine heroes who fought for our independence during the Spanish tyranny was born November 30.
This is the joyous and the longest among the top Philippine holidays as it celebrates the birth of baby Jesus. It is the most anticipated holiday for every Filipino family as it is most often associated with overflowing food, gift giving, and clan reunions.
Rizal Day (Dec. 30)
The execution and death of Dr. Jose Rizal, Philippines’ National Hero is remembered every year in memory of his sacrifice for Philippine independence.
These are the top Philippine holidays which heighten the spirit of fun and camaraderie as well as friendship and love. This is the time when you value spending time with your family and how special it feels to be a part of a country that is rich in culture and tradition.
*This article was written by Maria Jesusa Corpuz
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