Stars on the Noche Buena table
There are well-loved Yuletide traditions that we’ve observed for years and are treasured by generations of families. Having King Sue ham on the Noche Buena table is one of them. Let’s look at some of the beloved practices that make Christmas in our country like no other.
Simbang Gabi/Misa de Gallo — It is believed that completing the nine-day novena masses will make Christmas wishes come true.
Caroling — Filipinos sure love to sing and during the Yule season, this fondness for music is manifested through caroling. Neighborhood kids sing with handcrafted tambourines while adult carolers have ventured into more high-tech versions, with microphones, mobile speakers, and even lights, as they render their well-practiced song and dance numbers.
Exchange gifts — This sharing of blessings often comes in the form of
“aguinaldo” (usually from godparents), small, funny items (from office MonitoMonita), and of course, the much-awaited exchanging of gifts with the family on Christmas Eve. Think glittery buntings, the traditional
parol made of bamboo and Japanese paper or capiz shells laden with Christmas lights and of course, the Christmas tree. There is no better symbol of Christmas than the
belen, the centerpiece of one’s home decoration. A representation of the Nativity scene, it is present in almost all Filipino households. Noche Buena — It literally translates to “good night” in Spanish but for Filipinos, Noche Buena is the ultimate feast on Christmas Eve. Here, families get together at midnight and share a lavish banquet prepared by the whole family. The Yuletide table is filled with all kinds of dishes, including King Sue’s Chinese Bone-in Ham and other premium meat products. Its Pear Shape, Piña Ham and sweet hams, bacon, sausages, cold cuts and chorizos, are also the most common ingredients in recipes including lasagna, paella, pasta, tacos, sandwiches and salads. Indeed, King Sue has always been one of the stars of the Filipino Christmas table.