As the Christmas season begins in the Philippines, streets, homes, and churches alike glow with the warm, subtle light of the parol—the iconic Filipino Christmas lantern. More than just a simple light source and decorative object, it is a powerful representation of the light that radiates hope, faith, and the fiesta-like Filipino personality embedded in each of us, never to be extinguished. Its presence not only indicates the arrival of the Christmas season but also reminds Filipinos of the values deeply rooted in their culture and still very much alive today.

 

The traditional parols have the shape of a star with five points which signifies the star that illuminated the night of Jesus Christ’s birth. This is the same star which Three Kings used as their guide to the place where the Baby was born. At first, it was a very basic light source—cheap in materials and simple in design. Materials such as bamboo and papel de hapon (Japanese paper) were used to make it, qualities that really portray the creativity and resourcefulness of the Filipinos. Nowadays, these lanterns have become more complex in design and more materials have been used such as capiz shells, plastic, LED lights, and even recycled materials.

 

Making parols has not only been a tradition observed by the people but has also become a major cultural and community activity. Most especially in Pampanga which is known as the “Christmas Capital of the Philippines.” Usually, the production of parols is done with the work of neighbors and relatives who collaborate with one another, thereby strengthening their relationship and ensuring that traditions are continuously passed on from generation to generation. Today, parol festivals and competitions are held not only to draw attention to the excellent workmanship of the people but are also a means of promoting local identity and pride.

 

Lately, the parol has been kept up with the current times and hence is an embodiment of innovation while still retaining its traditional sense. One example is the use of LED lights that can be controlled to display different designs in the shopping centers. The Filipinos have come up with different ways in which the parol can be newly interpreted while at the same time, its main idea is kept intact. The core of the parol is still the same—to give light, cheer, and happiness during the Christmas period, regardless of these recent changes.

 

More than that, it is also representative of the indomitable Filipino spirit. For instance, when the country is struck by a calamity or if it is a time of difficulty and uncertainty, the simple gesture of putting up one is an indication of trust and hope for better times to come. It assures the Filipino people that no matter how dark it is during the night, the light will indeed find its way through.

 

Aside from their visual appearance, it is a symbol of light conquering darkness which is something that definitely touches the Filipino people deeply and especially during their hardships. Whether they are hanging on the front of very simple homes or are paraded in the magnificent public areas. It remains a powerful beacon of hope, unity, and enduring joy—illuminating not only the streets but also the Christmas season with the resilient spirits of the Filipino people.