Do you hear that? Jose Mari Chan singing his iconic songs. Yes, it’s officially the start of the Ber months. Although still four months away, the start of Ber months symbolizes the start of the holiday season in the Philippines — the reason why we are dubbed to have the longest Christmas celebration in the world.

By this time in the past, people are supposed to be clamoring for their holiday decors, gifts, Christmas parties, Noche Buena and Media Noche; but 2020 has a different plan for all of us. The Coronavirus Pandemic happened and just like that, we have to live under the “new normal” for a while until we find the vaccine against it.   

Since we are daydreaming at homes right now, let us break down some of the Ber-month activities that we’ll miss under the new normal.

1. All Saints’ Day

Traditionally, Filipinos flock to the cemeteries to pay respect to their deceased loved ones. Public cemeteries especially, get so crowded every year that a number of police officers are needed to manage the people. Because of the pandemic, social distancing became a thing. We still don’t know how we’ll be able to visit the cemeteries on All Saint’s Day, but it’s always safer to stay home and pray for them instead.

2. Bibingka & Puto Bumbong

Technically, we can still find these Filipino holiday delicacies, but remember when you can see them everywhere come September? Yeah, I guess we’ll have to spend a little extra effort in looking for them under the new normal since not all vendors will be allowed to sell outside.

3. Christmas Shopping

One thing that we love during the holiday season is shopping for gifts. Malls are usually flocked with people because of the usual holiday sales. But because of the pandemic, malls and establishments will definitely limit their capacity and adhere to the health and safety protocols that include social distancing. Remember your love-hate relationship with Christmas shopping at Divisoria? We know you’ll definitely miss it. Safer to stick to online shopping for now.

4. Holiday Vacations

Excited for the holiday vacation that you’ve been planning since last Christmas? Well, that might just not happen this year. Tourism was one of the most struck industries when the pandemic arrived. Travel under the new normal was restricted for necessity only for the safety of everyone and to avoid further spreading the virus. Time for Plan B a.k.a. staycation at home.

5. Carolling

The children’s favorite activity during the holiday season is also not going to happen, since those who are under 21 years old are prohibited from going outside since they are considered as “vulnerable”.  Patawad muna, kids.

6. Simbang Gabi

Misa de Galo, or mostly known as Simbang Gabi, is a popular tradition in the Philippines. This is a series of morning masses leading to Christmas that starts at December 16 until December 24. As of the moment, religious gatherings are still prohibited or are only limited to a number of people. We can assume that this will continue until we get a vaccine. Don’t worry, there are churches who hold online masses for their patriots so you can attend the mass at the safety of your home.

7. Christmas Parties and Family Reunions

The typical Filipino loves Christmas gatherings. It’s time for them to see their friends and family after a long year and to celebrate. But with what is happening right now, we will probably have to stick to video calls and social media to wish our loved ones a Merry Christmas.

8. Pamamasko

Patawad ulit, kids! You won’t be able to go to your Ninongs and Ninangs to get your pamasko this year because you are not allowed to travel and go outside. That’s okay, remember that its better safe than sorry, and no money can be enough when you get sick.

9. Big Noche Buena and Media Noche Dinners

Noche Buena and Media Noche are our traditional feasts come Christmas and New Year’s Eve respectively. During these times, we usually exchange foods with our neighbors as we wish them a happy holiday. Now, it’s safer to greet them from a distance and avoid going outside and partying with the whole barangay.

10. New Year’s Eve Countdown Party

Every year, popular places like Luneta for example, are visited by people together with their families to have wait for the New Year’s Countdown celebration. This year, we will be counting down with our families at home, wishing for a better 2021 to come.

These traditions will never die as long as we remember them. We may not be able to do it this year or we may do it differently, but always remember that what is more important is our safety and our family.

Stay safe everyone!