When did Christmas caroling start in the Philippines?

Now that Christmas caroling is allowed in areas under Alert Level 2, the festive activity will again be seen as long as participants follow public health standards.

According to the #KuyaKimAnoNa segment on “24 Oras” Friday, caroling in the Philippines began as early as the time of Spanish occupation.

Kuya Kim also said the practice of giving gifts or “aginaldo” also came from the Spaniards. The word “aguinaldo,” he added, meant bonus in Spanish.

Meanwhile, “Ang Pasko ay Sumapit,” one of the most popular Filipino Christmas carols, was composed by musical director Josefino Cenizal with lyrics from National Artist Levi Celerio.

However, it was also said that the song was originally titled “Kasadya Ning Taknaa,” with lyrics and composition by Cebuanos Vicente Daclan Rubi and Mariano Vestil. – RC, GMA News