AMID the holiday rush and commercial noise, residents of Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental are grounding themselves in a simpler truth this season: Christmas is, first and foremost, about family.
In a series of interviews, locals shared that they are intentionally keeping their celebrations simple, prioritizing love, gratitude, and togetherness over lavish parties.
For Vince Leonard Ompoc, a hemodialysis billing clerk at a local hospital, the highlight of the season isn’t under the tree. He is looking forward to a low-key, meaningful day.
“This Christmas, we will be spending a simple family trip in Cagayan de Oro, just roaming around the mall,” Ompoc said.
While simple, the moment holds deep significance for him. It marks their first time going out together as a complete family unit.
“Seeing my family healthy and happy is truly my greatest gift this Christmas season,” he added.
This sentiment of “health over wealth” is echoed by Delia Mahilom Janio, a daycare teacher from Barangay Sta. Ana in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental.
“My family, gratitude, happiness, and good health is what I’m asking for,” Janio said, voicing a prayer shared by many Filipinos this year.
Meanwhile, Edrian Achas, a crafter and member of the LGBTQ+ community in Misamis Oriental, stripped the holiday down to its absolute core.
“I-spend nako akong Christmas with my family and friends bahalag wala kaayoy handa basta kay magtipok mi, happy na kaayo ko ana,” Achas said. (I’ll spend Christmas with my family and friends – no need for big preparations, just being together makes me happy.)
