Ashraf AboArafe
In a vibrant celebration that blended culture, community, and Christmas spirit, the Ambassador of the Philippines, Ms. Crystal Dunuan, welcomed guests to a festive afternoon along the Nile—an event that intertwined art, tradition, and music into a single tapestry of Filipino heritage.
Opening the first activity, Ambassador Dunuan introduced the parol-making workshop, inviting attendees to experience one of the Philippines’ most beloved Christmas traditions. She described the parol—the iconic star-shaped lantern—as a radiant symbol of Filipino faith and festivity. Inspired by the Star of Bethlehem and originally crafted in Pampanga using bamboo frames and colorful paper, the parol continues to illuminate Filipino homes as a beacon of hope, joy, and togetherness throughout the world’s longest Christmas season.
Participants were guided step by step in creating their own lanterns, each becoming a personal expression of the season’s spirit. “I hope you enjoy creating your parol,” the ambassador remarked, encouraging guests to stay for the performances that would follow.
The festive afternoon then transitioned into a Christmas Concert, which Ambassador Dunuan opened with a warm welcome to members of the Filipino community, the diplomatic corps, and friends of the Philippines. She noted that the day had been rich with cultural moments, including the unveiling of the “Hope and Endeavor” Art Exhibit—a collection of 13 works by Filipino artists dating from 1955 to 1982, curated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. The exhibit, she explained, reflects the Filipino values of bayanihan, celebration, and homecoming.
As the concert began, Ambassador Dunuan painted a portrait of Filipino Christmas—“the heartbeat of our year”—spanning from September to early January. She evoked memories of dawn masses (Simbang Gabi), the aroma of puto bumbong, and the glow of handmade parols guiding families toward warmth and gratitude.
The evening featured talented performers from the Filipino community and their friends, who brought to life a blend of international carols and traditional Filipino Christmas songs, with a special dance number adding to the celebration.
Addressing Filipinos living far from home, Ambassador Dunuan offered heartfelt words: though distant from the Philippines and loved ones, this celebration was meant to feel like a return home—carrying with it the essence of the season: love, gratitude, and the sharing of oneself with others.
On behalf of the Philippine Embassy, she extended her warmest wishes:
“Thank you for joining us. Merry Christmas, and happy holidays to all.”
