The symbol of the winter season in the Philippines is the Parol. In the Philippines, Christmas is celebrated everywhere. “Pasko,” meaning Christmas, is celebrated from September-January. Being Catholic, this holiday is extremely important for us which is why we celebrate it so early.Both of my parents were born and raised in the Philippines in the Pangasinan province. The city my mother lived in was filled with Christmas lights during the winter season which she loved. My mother went to school and started working as a nurse in the capital city, Manila. She was together with my dad when was being recruited into the US Military that was holding recruitment in the Philippines. Because of his enlistment, my dad gained his citizenship first and settled in the US, my mother had to wait to get a green card and she was able to move.Growing up, I was fairly strong with religion. Understanding the meaning of Christmas, it became my favorite holiday. It meant a break from school, time with family, and the presents. My mom loves decorating the house for Christmas. She loves to host people at our house and invites friends and family to visit, which means decorating is important. I was then introduced to the Parol. It’s a lit-up star that is hung outside the house that shines brightly at night. It attracted my gullible eyes with the flashing colored lights. Passing by a house, and you see the Parol, you just know that the household is Filipino. I’m glad that I am as passionate about it as I am and I’m grateful to understand a little more about my roots, my family, and my identity.

– Sean Gorospe

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant