Catholic churches across Northern and Central Luzon were filled with devotees as Misa de Gallo began officially on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, marking the start of the traditional dawn Masses leading up to Christmas Day.

In Dagupan City, Archbishop Socrates Villegas led the first day of Misa de Gallo at the St. John the Evangelist Cathedral, where thousands of faithful gathered before dawn. In his homily, the Archbishop centered his message on faith in God and God’s constant care for humanity.

“Ang unang aral na dapat tandaan ay hindi natutulog ang Diyos. Itinuturo sa atin ‘yan ng pananampalataya. Subalit ‘yung pagsasabing hindi natutulog ang Diyos ay isang salita ng pananampalataya,” Villegas said.

Misa de Gallo will run until December 24, while Simbang Gabi, the evening Masses, started on December 15 and will continue until December 23. Church leaders earlier said the Christmas message this year remains centered on hope.

Devotee Jay Navelgas, who attended both the evening and dawn Masses, shared his prayer intentions.

“Good health at saka future ng mga bata. Magandang future ng mga bata,” he said.

In Manaoag, Pangasinan, the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag was also filled with worshippers on the first day of Misa de Gallo. Devotees came carrying personal prayers and spent the early hours in quiet reflection.

The same strong turnout was seen in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, where the Saint William the Hermit Cathedral was nearly full, leaving little seating space inside the church. Police officers were deployed outside to help ensure security.

In Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, crowds also gathered at the Saint Nicolas de Tolentine Cathedral, where devotees were urged during the homily to continue praying for their families and communities.

Meanwhile, in Guagua, Pampanga, hundreds of Catholics attended the first Misa de Gallo at the Santiago Apostol Parish Church, reflecting the widespread participation of the faithful across the region.

As the nine-day tradition continues, church leaders and devotees alike say Misa de Gallo remains a powerful expression of faith, unity, and hope as Filipinos prepare for Christmas Day.