Friends and relatives confirmed that Dr. Rowena Burden passed away on Friday, December 15, 2023; she was 58 years old.
Photo from Rappler
According to Dr. Rowena’s nephew, Kristian Burden, the doctor visited their house the day before and she seemed fine. However, her assistant informed Dr. Burden’s family that the doctor was experiencing severe back pain.
Burden was rushed to Chung Hua Hospital where she suffered cardiac arrest.
Photo from TV Show Stars
Moreover, Burden was supposed to run against Governor Gwen Garcia in the 2025 gubernatorial elections. Her reason for running was because of the poor state of Cebu’s healthcare system.
Photo from Rappler
She was open and vocal about criticizing Governor Gwen Garcia’s actions during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, Burden faced eight counts of cyber libel filed by Garcia because of her Facebook posts that were about the Governor’s abuse of power.
This is a hard time for Dr. Rowena Burden’s family. May she rest in peace.
Simbang Gabi is one of the most practiced traditions in the Philippines in the buildup of Christmas, one that dates back to so many years ago. This is a 9-day mass held every day from December 16 to 24, culminating on Christmas Eve to welcome the celebration of the birth of Christ, an event widely known as Misa de Gallo.
When something is practiced so often by almost everyone, there is little room to question why we do it. So if you’re wondering what started this tradition, here’s what you need to know.
Photo from National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help
Of course, our Catholic roots are a result of Spanish colonization, so the tradition of Simbang Gabi undoubtedly started in the early days of their occupation. Because of the undeniable heat of our country, our farmers had to work before daybreak and finish before noon to have at least a margin of comfort in accomplishing their tasks. Mandated to join masses, priests have realized that the default evening masses they held led attendees to be too tired to even listen. Hence, they changed the schedule to be at dawn.
Photo from sampalocmanila
Since 1669, this has become characteristic to Filipino culture and eventually turned into a holiday custom. Now, Filipinos no longer go to the daybreak mass due to social responsibility given to them by the Spanish, but because faith has become part of their identity and the majority of them practice it and celebrate their beliefs through Simbang Gabi.
Photo from St. Joachim Catholic Church
In a Catholic-majority country, Christmas has always been very faith-centered. People wake up at 3 am every day for a week and some to celebrate Christmas approaching, going to well-lit churches with parols and hanging fairy lights all around with their friends and family. It is also a common belief that if you complete all the days of Simbang Gabi, you are granted one Christmas wish that will surely come true.
Photo from Village Pipol
Even with the Philippines’ complex history, we can still see how Filipinos value the traditions that were passed down from our ancestors and carry them with their hearts on their sleeves. If you’re someone who participates in this annual celebration, have a happy Simbang Gabi!
Everyone at this time of month is probably preparing for a Christmas party whether it be at school or at work, and if you’re assigned to organize such an event, you might be wondering what games to hold to keep the life of the party going. From modern games to classic ones, we are listing the top 10 Christmas party games of 2023 that will bring both joy and laughter to your special event.
Tumpakganern
Tumpakganern is a Filipino game whose name is from the common Filipino phrase “pak ganern”, blending it with the word “tumpak”. The game is popularized by the noontime show, Showtime, and is essentially a trivia game. Players are shown a question which they will answer starting all of their sentences with “I believe,” to parody a very common line in pageantry question and answer portions.
This can be a very fun game for everyone to play especially because everyone can be creative with their answers. Players can answer the questions in any way they want, with the determining factor of winning being just the keywords that directly give the answer to the trivia. Creativity is still at play here, which is a perfect moment for class clowns to shine and make everyone laugh and anticipate what they will say, whether or not they have the right answer.
Photo from @itsShowtimeNa on X
Hep Hep Hooray
Also a classic Filipino game, Hep Hep Hooray is a game of confusion as players also have to make hand gestures while saying the words. For “hep hep”, players have to clap, and for “hooray”, they have to put both hands up. A line of players will each be given a chance to say one of these words while doing the gestures, with the speed increasing as the game progresses.
Even if this game is already a classic, it doesn’t date back too long ago. There is a touch of modernity to this Filipino game, and the adrenaline that comes with the unexpectedness of everything here will surely make people laugh.
Photo from GMA Network on Youtube
Paper Dance
The paper dance has existed in party games since time immemorial. Players are paired and given a newspaper which gets folded in half after every time the music stops and players who don’t freeze properly get eliminated. Scientifically, any sort of paper, no matter how big or small, can only be folded up to seven times. Now imagine that while having two people being required to fit themselves into the space in their tippy toes, with higher levels only giving them the chance to stand on one foot while having to remain frozen.
Hosts can mess with players especially when it seems like no one is budging. They employ tactics to make the players laugh or move a little bit for everyone’s laughs, giving everyone in the room a good time.
Photo from @bdtalabang on X
Cookie Face
Popularized by the game show Minute to Win It, the Cookie Face is played by putting a cookie on a player’s forehead while giving them a time limit (or not, the winner just has to be the first one to accomplish the goal) to get the cookie to reach their mouth so they could eat it.
This is an entertaining game that is adrenaline rushing for players who are in it to win it, while giving laughs if you have classmates or workmates who like to nitpick the faces you make from moving your face muscles to move the cookie.
Photo from Andy’s Action Parties
Junk in the Trunk
Junk in the Trunk is played by tying a box full of 8 ping pong balls to a player’s waist, requiring them to shake their bodies to music with the goal of being the first to empty the boxes. This is commonly played in Minute to Win It in teams to make the experience more fun and pressuring.
Photo from Ossining Public Library
Lemon relay
Lemon Relay or Calamansi Relay because we are Filipinos, is played in teams wherein each of the members are required to go forward and around something like a chair, for example, while carrying a calamansi on a spoon and relaying it to the next player in line. The calamansi cannot fall off or the player holding it has to go back from the start of the line and redo the steps. The first team to finish wins.
Being a team game, this is very fun to play and considering the amount of focus and control this requires, it’ll surely give everyone the pressure and competitiveness that make party games alive.
Photo from Oojra
Riff-off
Since everyone saw Pitch Perfect (2013), we all have wanted to do this somehow. Now, you can show off your singing skills or the lack thereof in your Christmas party with a Riff-off. Word-playing ‘rip-off’, this game is played by teams wherein first, a song is sung or played and the next person who comes up with another song by cutting off from the last word of the previous one to use that word to start the next.
Both being a skill and wit game, this will bring out everyone’s creativity and a lot of funny moments since Filipinos find a lot of joy in people who can’t sing in tune or on key. However it goes, if everyone’s having a good time, then this’ll surely make your Christmas party extra fun.
Photo from @merrelltwins on Youtube
Charades
Charades are commonly played as a peaceful house party game, but can also be a very pressuring and fun one if organizers strive for it to be. Basically, players are to pick from a ballot a word or a group of words that their teammates ought to guess. They have to reenact the words without ever saying what it is, so the expressions, both facial and gestural, can be very funny to watch.
Photo from Brightful
Blow the Ball
Blow the Ball is a popular game for kids wherein organizers set up an obstacle course for each of the player’s or team’s balls to run through. The catch is that they can only move the ball through blowing on it with a straw.
If you opt for this game, make sure to use a very light ball that can be moved just by the wind. It’ll be a fun game to watch players be pushed by their teams to blow on their straws harder.
Flip the Bottle
Flipping bottles has become a popular practice especially in the years 2016 and 2017. Starting as an internet trend, people just take their plastic water bottles and toss them 360 while still landing on their bottoms.
Even though it was just an internet trend last decade, a lot of people have mastered this as a skill and it can truly be fascinating and amazing to watch. This can be a fun party game that Gen Z kids can enjoy. It can also be a team game to have everyone race their water bottle flipping skills.
Photo from The New York Times
Whatever your event may be or wherever, these games can truly make a crowd happy. Surprise your peers with an alternating set list of games with these classic and modern entries, and go have a good time!
Hachimitsu is known for being the Best-tasting Yakiniku Fusion with a View of the Queen City of the South. Your Asian food cravings will surely be satisfied. Not only that, but Hachimitsu also offers a breathtaking view of the city.
Oh, how we wish we could book the place all to ourselves. And with that, Hachimitsu says, “Your wish is our command.”
This holiday season, Hachimitsu now accepts bookings for an Exclusive Buffet Party to make your memories even more precious.
Hachimitsu Exclusive Buffet Party
Hachimitsu is now making it possible for customers to have their exclusive gathering at the restaurant. They offer three exclusive buffet party packages such as:
Main Dining
Alfresco Dining
Cafe Dining (already open): located at the lower part of the restaurant
Rates: P645-P700/head minimum pax required depending on the day and venue. This rate is for exclusive bookings of the venue with minimal decor.
Note: Rates may change; please inquire.
What’s great is that Hachimitsu offers 7% off for weekday dinners.
Hachimitsu’s newest exclusive buffet party offer is perfect for all kinds of events like weddings, company parties, birthdays, and even an intimate gathering of friends and family.
The buffet includes special dishes and premium meats served at Hachimitsu. Here’s a pro tip: Make sure you try out Hachimitsu’s recent best-sellers:
NASI GORENG
KATSU PORK CURRY
HOTPOT
JAPANESE BEEF
SALMON BELLY
This Christmas season, Hachimitsu is making an effort to bring families, friends, and even co-workers together as they offer a buffet party option for those who want an intimate holiday celebration.
And guess what? Hachimitsu also gives out daily surprise gifts to random diners who visit and eat at the buffet restaurant—feeling lucky? You might be one of the lucky diners. What are you waiting for? Celebrate your life events at Hachimitsu, where good food and company meet a beautiful view.
For reservations, message Hachimitsu’s official Facebook page or call them via the following numbers: (0956) 728 7619; 0915-460-6073; 0956-994-8408
Exact location: A. Villalon Dr, Capitol, Cebu City (Across Cebu Christian Church Center)
BY BEEP: Ride any beep/PUJ that would ply through the Capitol like 04D, 14D, 17B, 17D. Hachimitsu Unli Grill & Hotpot is just an 11-minute walk from the Cebu Provincial Capitol.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Hachimitsu Unli Grill & Hotpot” in Cebu City. Parking space is available.
Filipinos have always had a knack for being very extra during the Christmas season. Not one corner gets left not bedazzled during this time of year, much so as early as September 1st. Now that we’re approaching the much anticipated holiday, a lot of malls and establishments have made sure to keep up with the unbroken nature of the country.
Photo from Christmas in the Philippines
Today everywhere we look outside is decorated with ornaments like fairy lights, sleighs, and snow despite all of them clashing with our hot tropical climate. Nonetheless, it’s a heartwarming practice that most people in our country never fail to deliver. With that being said, here are 10 public Christmas trees in Cebu, gigantic and well-lit.
FUENTE OSMEÑA CIRCLE
You know this had to be at the top of the list. The Christmas tree at the Fuente Circle is one of the oldest yuletide practices in our city, which a lot have come to love. Being in the heart of our city, most of the places we go require us to pass here, which is exactly why this is such a strategic placement for the tree, giving a moment to tired passengers to empty their full minds and just look up and up and up until they reach the tip of the tree.
Today, the Fuente Circle tree is complete and bright, and every night, the place is never empty because of the various stalls of food present in the area for the people who wish to stroll around. Activities and events are also held in the place on the big stage, giving people so much to look forward to during the holidays. This is one of the most accessible public Christmas trees in the city, considering where it is located, as well as the open space of the Fuente Circle.
Photo from Nhoy VillacampaPhoto from @Island Nomad on Facebook
NUSTAR
NUSTAR has established itself as one of the best malls and casino spots in the city, being a standout among other buildings we have in the city. Despite its relative distance from where most people reside, a lot still find their way here for what it has to offer. NUSTAR selects the theme “A Celestial Journey” for their celebration of the holidays, decorating their tree with star-themed ornaments. This giant sighting is definitely one for the eyes which you shouldn’t miss if you come to NUSTAR.
Aside from their Christmas tree lighting, NUSTAR is also giving back to their members who can now earn 50 reward points to score a raffle entry. Every day, 50 lucky winners get chosen to be given prizes such as dining vouchers, gaming credits, and appliances and gadgets with their “12 Days of Christmas” special. A special giveaway will also happen on December 25th.
MARCO POLO PLAZA CEBU
Marco Polo welcomes the season with their “Tree of Hope”. The big tree has a very long tulle spiraling around it, along with other ornaments that make the 20-foot giant a lot more eye-catching.
Aside from their tree, Marco Polo focuses on their advocacy of empowering education with the help of the We Care Foundation. The Christmas tree lighting on November 27 was hosted by Ramon Sebastian, who also celebrated his birthday and will continue to work with the Sisters of Mary to carry out their plans to help children with their Christmas program.
SM SEASIDE
SM Seaside prides itself on their 50-foot Christmas tree embellished with multiple baubles and tinsel. In a place where people go to shop, stroll around, and hang out, you have more reasons to pass by their Christmas tree and snap a picture or two. The Yuletide spirit is definitely alive in SM Seaside with their tree, decorations, and the music they play all day long.
Every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 6:00 PM, SM Seaside also introduces their Christmas mascots for children to meet. On the same days of the week at 2:00, 4:00, and 5:00 PM, The Seaside Santa Squad will also be there to hear your children’s Christmas wishes.
AYALA MALLS
Ayala is no stranger to Christmas crowds, what with their amazing series of lights draped along the actual living trees in their terraces. What makes it better is that their lights are also in sync to the music that they play in the area. When the lights are turned on by 6:00 PM, the lightshow you’re about to see is truly jaw-dropping.
Aside from the Christmas tree lights on their living trees, Ayala also has a normal Christmas tree standing inside the mall. Located in their gallery, their 40-foot tree stands proudly with powerful luminescence and three suns at the tip instead of the usual singular star.
WATERFRONT CEBU CITY HOTEL AND CASINO
Waterfront Hotel is not at all letting you miss their Christmas trees. From the moment you step in their lobby, you will see their giant Christmas trees adorned with icy balls in different sizes, projecting a winter theme for everyone to enjoy.
Along with their “Silver Splendor” Christmas theme, Waterfront Hotel incorporates ‘Kapwa Ko, Mahal Ko,’ to their Christmas venture, choosing it as their beneficiary for their Corporate Social Program. This foundation focuses on giving accessible healthcare to children diagnosed with cancer. This, along with the other yuletide activities they are celebrating, they have claimed to be the true spirit of Christmas.
YELLO HOTEL
Even with a relatively smaller and simpler Christmas tree, Yello Hotel is still able to capture a genuine Christmas feeling with their decorations and Christmas specials. Their Christmas tree is adorned with glittery golden balls and folded traditional paypays or weaved fans that are native to the Philippines. This unique touch gives Yello Hotel’s tree an edge that captures both the Christmas spirit and Filipino culture.
Moreover, they now offer their Paskong Dilaw Christmas Staycation Package, wherein those who book a two-night stay from their social media page directly can enjoy a breakfast buffet and either a Christmas Eve dinner buffet or New Year’s Eve Countdown dinner buffet with live music and a free glass of wine.
MANDAUE CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
Comparable to what the Fuente Circle tree is to those living in the heart of Cebu City, Mandaue offers Christmas to their locals in the same magnitude. In their plaza stands a minimalist Christmas tree that gives us a fresh take on the popular holiday figure without losing its essence at all. The entire place is decorated with different lights that just make you feel that it finally is the season. Similar to Fuente Circle, there are also stalls of food you can enjoy in the area.
FAIRFIELD BY MARRIOT
The inaugural Fairfield brand establishment in Cebu started their grand opening with a bang, hitting two birds with one stone with their ribbon cutting and Christmas tree lighting. The commencement of this new establishment in Mandaue invited guests not only to witness a ceremony but a holiday experience that encapsulates values of their industry, such as friendliness, warmth, and community, all of which are characteristic to Christmas itself.
It is worthwhile to both check out this new establishment and witness their Christmas tree.
JPARK ISLAND RESORT & WATERPARK
Being home to both families and kids who yearn for a refreshing vacation, it is no surprise that Jpark participates in a tradition loved by many, one that embraces family and love as a form of celebration. Their Christmas tree demands not to be monochromatic and boasts a beautiful coexistence of blue, yellow, red, and green along the layers of the branches and leaves.
To make the holidays more special, Jpark hosts offerings such as the “Jingle Bell Time” Christmas Party package for guests to have more memorable celebrations, whichever occasion they may wish to celebrate it for.
For many, Christmas might not only be a season to be spent inside but one where they also want to explore other places to ground their annual experience further. These places offer themselves to be beacons of the Christmas spirit, open and free for everyone to pass by and spend time with their loved ones.
Have you seen the movie Zootopia? It follows the story of Judy Hopps, who hopes to become the first Bunny Cop in the bustling yet dreamy city of Zootopia. However, her new life in a big city poses challenges when she bumps into a sly fox named Nick.
Photo from ComingSoon.net
Zootopia gives us an exciting glimpse into a world where animals live and work just as humans do. Moreover, in the film, we see what the city of Zootopia looks like, and guess what? We are about to see that in real life!
You read that right because Shanghai Disneyland is set to open the world’s first-ever Zootopia-themed attraction on December 20, 2023.
Photo from TDR Explorer
Things to look forward to at Shanghai Disneyland’s Zootopia Attraction
Photo from @ShanghaiEye on X
Just as you saw in the animated film, guests can set foot in Zootopia itself. From the traffic lights to animalized murals, you will see the fictional world come to life. Moreover, guests will also experience the ride called the Zootopia: Hot Pursuit.
Photo from Theme Park InsiderPhoto from Theme Park Insider
You will get the chance to be trained as a “rookie police officer” with Officer Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. Guests will also come across Vice Mayor Bellwether and her gang of rams. In addition, you will experience the different terrains in the movie, such as Tundratown, Sahara Square, and the Mystic Spring Oasis, during the ride.
Photo from Theme Park Insider
Furthermore, for those looking for the perfect photo opportunity, you can take photos with different Zootopia characters, such as the whole Hopps family, Koslov (the polar bear), Flash (the sloth), Duke Weaselton, and more.
Shop at Fashions by Fru Fru
A Disneyland adventure is not complete without a shopping spree. Guests can head to Fashions by Fru Fru to get the perfect souvenir from the attraction. Not only that but, there are also have yummy teats you can take home and enjoy at Jumbeux’s Cafe or the Zootopia Market.
Photo from Theme Park Insider
As Judy Hopps said, “Are you ready to make the world a better place?” Visit the attraction as it opens on December 20, 2023.
The Malacañang has declared that December 26 is a special non-working day. The decision was made to give Filipinos further time to spend with their families during the holiday season. Furthermore, the declaration came from Proclamation No. 425, which was signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on December 22, 2023.
Photo from Rappler
In the proclamation, it is stated that “the declaration of 26 December 2023, Tuesday as an additional special (non-working day) will give the people the full opportunity to celebrate the holiday with their families and loved ones.”
Photo from Spot.ph
The long weekend will help encourage families to gather and strengthen their relationships. Moreover, the proclamation also states that the Department of Labor and Employment will release the appropriate circular for implementing the proclamation in the private sector.
Get my nails done while enjoying Mediterranean cuisine? Count me in!
Self-care is definitely number one on the list after a stressful week. Moreover, self-care comes in all forms, such as pampering your skin and nails, indulging in good food, or even both. The challenge is finding the perfect place for the ideal nail spa and food escapade.
Lucky for us, Morii Bistro and Nail Spa are now open to serve Cebuanos!
Morii: Mediterranean-inspired bistro-nail bar
Morii introduces the Mediterranean-inspired bistro and nail bar concept to the Philippine Market. Moreover, the Morii is one of the few establishments that allow customers to get their nails pampered while indulging in delicious drinks. After that, they get to enjoy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
In terms of interior design, the place gives off a Mediterranean ambiance with a “modern spin and a vibrant and cozy outdoor seating.” Adorned with elements of Italy and France with a touch of Filipino, the bistro and nail bar stands out.
Combining social gatherings with pampering and relaxation is what Morii pushes forward. So what can customers expect?
Your nail spa experience will be elevated as you will be served cocktails and mocktails while getting your nails pampered. Moreover, the cocktails are served alongside chips or nuts. There are also options for those who want more subtle drinks, such as organic teas, fresh juices, and espresso-based beverages.
But wait, there’s more! Morii offers a pampering experience for HIM, too! Morii offers something for everyone. Men can also avail of the gentleman package and enjoy an exclusive experience with a manicure, pedicure, and whisky cocktail.
Exemplary 5-star Service
“We would like to offer something out of the ordinary.”
Morii aims to push forward 5-star service to customers as they provide them with the highest standard of hospitality at a reasonable price. Furthermore, the bistro and nail bar promotes an enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.
Morii is also available for exclusive event bookings such as bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthdays, private beauty brunch, and more.
Behind Morii Bistro and Nail Spa
Morii Bistro and Nail Spa is the brainchild of three veterans in the hospitality industry: Bambi, Lilet, and Dice. They wanted to provide high-quality customer service without breaking the bank. Moreover, these fantastic ladies wanted to create an atmosphere where guests and staff could indulge in quality time together through food and service.
Morii Bistro and Nail Spa is the newest haven for those looking to have an elevated pamper day experience. You deserve self-care today, and with that, Morii Bistro and Nail Spa awaits.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Best-sellers:
Best Nail Services
Gel Manicure
Gel Pedicure
Ultimate Gel Glam Spa (Gel manicure and pedicure polish with foot spa
Best-selling Food
Starters – mini burger, quesadilla, mozzarella bite, chicken fingers
Main course – Grilled tomahawk chops, Mixed seafood in red chili paste, Hamburger steak, Stuffed tomahawk chops, creamy Tuscan salmon
EXACT LOCATION: Unit 3-03 3/F Streetscape Paseo Saturnino Maria Luisa Road Banilad, Cebu City.
BY COMMUTE: Ride any jeepney passing through Banilad or UC Banilad Campus. Or:
13C if from Colon/USC Main/Ayala (south) or Talamban/USC-TC (north)
62B/C if from Carbon/Ayala (south) or Pit-os/Talamban (north)
13B if from Carbon/UV/Ayala (south) or Tintay/Talamban (north)
…then ask the driver to drop you off near Banilad Town Center or across Gaisano Country Mall. You may need to walk further (10-15 minutes) going to Streetscape (near Henry Hotel / Banilad-A.S. Fortuna flyover), to comply with the proper jeepney stops. It’s recommended to take a cab or ride a habal-habal when commuting instead.
BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Streetscape Paseo Saturnino” in Cebu.
For a holiday that brings people together under one single roof, it’s no surprise that one of the best ways to celebrate it or count down to it is to watch a list of movies that encapsulate the spirit of Christmas.
Photo from WTSP.com
Each major holiday season is well caught by Hollywood to be made movies about, with important narratives to be spread either to serve as important lessons for children, or simply to remind adults things growing up has made them forget. If you’re wondering what movies you should watch this yuletide, here are 12 you should definitely check out.
1. Home Alone
Home Alone is a family classic loved by many since its release in 1990. This is definitely a movie worth rewatching for the nostalgia, and if you haven’t seen it yet, then it’s a good idea to meet your inner child again this Christmas.
This movie touches on the importance of parental support in the formative years of the child, even in things they might consider small, but to the child means everything. The naïveté of a child and the lack of impossibility brought by, the major theme of the film, is definitely what draws most to the main character as he portrays something we’ve all had as children so perfectly.
And of course, the whole thing just feels homier with all the snow.
Photo from 20th Century Studios Family
2. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
Following the success of the first film, Home Alone 2 came to the theaters consequentially to greet a number of anticipating audiences. Contrary to the first episode, Kevin no longer gets left at home, but rather gets to go to the airport without making it to their actual destination after taking the wrong plane headed to New York.
The new setting and additional characters definitely added something to the sequel, especially with Kevin’s newfound friendship with the pigeon lady. The core of the film centered on redemption, and how this is made possible by the people around us who help us move forward from wherever we may be stuck in. This is all explored in the lens of a child, hence giving the entire experience both playfulness and innocence.
Photo from 20th Century Studios Family
3. How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Being a Dr. Seuss adaptation and starred by thee Jim Carrey, there had already been a precedence that this film was going to be amazing. The story of the Grinch was already a classic, but having it made in live action was definitely a Christmas gift in itself.
Discourse regarding the true spirit of Christmas has long been around, and this film mentions that a lot. The Grinch personifying loneliness as the dark side of a season where everyone is surrounded by everyone they love, we are given a troubled character who ultimately finds redemption.
Photo from AMC Theaters
4. Klaus
Klaus is a more recent addition to your repertoire of jingling bells, released in 2019. The film offers a fresh perspective with its alternative origin story about Santa Claus.
It is a light-hearted tale that takes away the mythologizing of Santa Claus, and instead portrays him as an ordinary man who just takes joy in making toys for kids, which is something he and his late wife always wanted to do for the kids they never had.
Tackling themes of redemption and reconciliation, the film is definitely an interesting and wholesome Christmas movie worth watching.
Photo from IMDb
5. Falling for Christmas
Falling for Christmas is a romantic comedy Christmas film which is also Lindsay Lohan’s first movie project in years.
The film follows a love triangle with a classic amnesia twist that leaves the main character in limbo between two love interests. Ultimately, the film ends with a note of following one’s heart as well as doing things for yourself that your family might not approve of.
Photo from New on Netflix UK
6. The Princess Switch
Following a similar premise with Barbie’s Princess and the Pauper, The Princess Switch stars Vanessa Hudgens both as a duchess and an ordinary woman who look exactly the same and decide to switch places during Christmas.
The romantic comedy film tells a lighthearted story that concludes with realizing the importance of appreciating things that are immaterial, and how love goes beyond status and public perception.
Photo from Patriot Press
7. Family Switch
Because Christmas is a season for families, we get a lot of films that focus on kin being lost or mixed up. Family Switch adopts the Freaky Friday trope where everyone in the family exchange bodies with each other as a result of a rare planetary alignment.
Knowing what it’s like to be the other person more, the troubled family starts to be more understanding of each other and compassionate towards their differing lifestyles.
Photo from IMDb
8. Last Christmas
Starring the Mother of Dragons of herself, Emilia Clarke, this movie was highly anticipated by many in 2019. Contrary to her popular stern and strong white-haired character, she plays Kate who has a bubbly golden retriever-esque personality similar to Emilia’s actual nature.
The movie tackles themes such as the struggles of being in the working class as well as the complexity of love. With Henry Golding as Emilia’s love interest, we are given a stellar performance with a shocking twist at the end of the film.
Photo from Eel Pie Records
9. The Nutcracker and the Four Realms
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms gives a layer of mystery to the classic Christmas tale most of us know. They added new characteristics and complexities to the magic world Clara enters, keeping the film interesting despite the story being adopted.
With the star-studded cast including Mackenzie Foy (Renesmee Cullen herself) and Kiera Knightley, you’re definitely in for a Christmas adventure.
Photo from Movies Anywhere
10. Noelle
Anna Kendrick who has a ticket for the long way ‘round stars as a worker in Santa Claus’s present factory in the North Pole in ‘Noelle’ (2019). The film is set in a setting where Santa Claus died five months prior to Christmas, and everything and everyone in the factory is just all over the place.
The comedy focuses on the main character’s discovery of herself, exploring the highs and lows of having big shoes to fill. It is definitely worth the watch if you want a fresh perspective of how Santa Claus works as an entity, and for a lot of laughs too.
Photo from IMDb
11. A Christmas Carol
Adopted from Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol (2009) brought so much life to the beautiful classic with its animation, portraying the characters as perfectly as possible.
Following a traumatic childhood, Ebenezer Scrooge lives life as a bitter individual who just regards Christmas as Humbug. In an attempt to change his tragic trajectory if he continued his lifestyle, three spirits visit him to give him back his ability to see, clouded by everything he went through and his current state of mind.
Bah Humbug!
12. The Polar Express
Photo from IMDb
This animated adventure fantasy film introduces an express train that takes children to the North Pole. It explores how children can view Christmas in a shallow way—only thinking about presents and what good things come with Christmas. This perception of Christmas caused the children a lot of trouble due to their selfishness. At the end of the film, it was shown how this preconceived notion of the season is exactly what makes adults forget the essence of it along with the idea of Santa Claus.
Photo from IMDb
It is a heartwarming film that highlights the importance of remembering what Christmas really is about. It definitely is a 2004 classic.
Put on your ugly Christmas sweaters, make that chocolate drink, and huddle in a tight couch and spend time with your loved ones with these movies on the screen this Christmas!
Misa de Gallo is only a few days away, and for Cebu City, safety is always a priority.
According to Cebu City Councilor Philip Zafra, the Cebu City Police Office and the city government will increase security measures during the Misa de Gallo and other holiday activities in the city.
Photo from RapplerPhoto from Cebu City PIO
Moreover, commanders from different police stations in Cebu City will also work closely with the barangay captains. Minors cannot roam outside their homes from 10 PM to 4 AM.
Photo from Feast Cebu Archives
Minors not adhering to the curfew will be reprimanded and brought to the Department of Social Welfare and Services (DSWS) stationed in their respective barangays.
However, minors can still attend the Misa de Gallo if and only if they have their parents with them or are accompanied by an adult.
Photo from Salt and Light Catholic Media FoundationPhoto from Rappler
During this holiday season, let us be vigilant to avoid any risks, accidents, and unwanted happenings.
