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Pagbibigayan: The Filipino Spirit of Gift-Giving | @natmuseumph

Pagbibigayan: The Filipino Spirit of Gift-Giving

Christmas, considered the happiest season, has always been celebrated by Filipinos with anticipation. It is synonymous with parties, gift-giving, and similar expressions of gratitude for all the blessings received. Giving or sharing reflects on the selfless sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the central figure of Christianity who came to the world to save humanity from sin.

Gift-giving is common across cultures. What makes it uniquely Filipino is the traditional values behind it. “π˜—π˜’π˜¨π˜£π˜ͺ𝘣π˜ͺ𝘨𝘒𝘺𝘒𝘯” (sharing or giving) is one of the Filipino core values that is directly linked to “𝘱𝘒𝘬π˜ͺ𝘬π˜ͺ𝘱𝘒𝘨𝘬𝘒𝘱𝘸𝘒” (sharing of oneself or connecting one’s self to others), emphasizing the importance of human connectivity in Filipino consciousness. It is a language of love among family and friends, wherein a gift symbolizes a part of oneself being given to loved ones.

This tradition is practiced during important life events such as weddings or birthdays, especially during the holiday season. At Filipino Christmas gatherings, it is customary to exchange gifts. Each gift is stacked and numbered, and guests claim the gifts based on the number they won in a “𝘱𝘒𝘭𝘒𝘣𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘡𝘒𝘯” (raffle). “Monito, Monita” is the Philippine version of Kris Kringle or Secret Santa, wherein gifts provided are based on a given theme. Weeks before Christmas, participants are individually asked to pick the person they will be gifting from the palabunutan of code names. The identity of the Monito or Monita will only be revealed during the party. “Aguinaldo,” on the other hand, is a gift being given to another person. This is a common practice—but not necessarily exclusive—between a godparent and a godchild.

Filipino generosity is evident in the gift-giving tradition, bringing satisfaction and happiness to the giver and the recipient. What’s the most significant gift have you received? Feel free to share yours in the comments section below.