By Reynaldo G. Alejandro & Marla Yotoko Chorengel
Christmas in the Philippines is like no other in the world. Its months-long celebration is colorful, exuberant and excessive – so typical of a Philippine fiesta. The Pasko season enlivens every Filipino home with the traditional parol (star-shaped lantern), belen (nativity crèche). Christmas trees, wreaths, and a myriad of yuletide ornaments.
By night, it transforms the country into a glittering panorama of lights. It also showcases Filipino artistry, innovativeness, and craftsmanship through Christmas décors that rivals the best in the world.
Philippine Christmas: Art & Form highlights the well-loved symbols of Pasko: the parol, the belen, the Christmas tree, lights, decors and ornaments, and tablescapes. The symbols provide the form of our native Christmas, while the art is found in the designs, colors and materials the – despite foreign influences and ever-changing trends – transforms these basic icons into uniquely Pinoy expressions of Christmas.
Glimpse into homes decked with Christmas cheers. Enter churches warmed with lantern-glow and hashed with reverence for the Child Jesus. Stroll along streets and avenues; walk through parks, residential subdivisions, business districts, and shopping malls ablaze with lights for the season. Admire holiday tables around which families lovingly gather. Take pride in Philippine-made trimmings and ornaments creatively fashioned from indigenous materials.
Pasko, arty and fanciful, is indeed a feast for the eyes. Maligayang Pasko!
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Philippine Christmas: Art & Form is available at all Power Books Specialty Store branches: Greenbelt, Alabang, Megamall and Glorietta
