Holiday Cheer: Derrick Monasterio

This year, our motif for the Christmas tree is silver and red. For a touch of sophistication, we added bright silver ornaments. But the dominant color is still red. A family friend decorated it, but I helped set up the lights. We usually celebrate Christmas by simply going to church and praying for God’s grace. For me, that’s the real essence of the season.

For noche buena and media noche, we gather at the dinner table, like other Filipino families. This practice strengthens the bond among the family members and allows us to share love and maintain harmony in the home throughout the holidays and in the coming year. Bayani San Diego Jr.