Simbang Gabi Eats and Treats

CEBU, Philippines – Christmas in the Philippines is never complete without the traditional Simbang Gabi or Misa de Gallo. This novena dawn Masses, from December 16 to 24, are celebrated from 3 to 5 a.m. in anticipation of Christmas and in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Simbang Gabi tradition is not limited to the Mass. The festivities continue outside the church with a line of stalls selling different mouth-watering local delicacies, native snacks and hot beverages.

Popular Simbang Gabi food like puto bumbong, bibingka, budbod, biko, kutsinta, sapinsapin, palitaw, puto lutaw are often paired with steaming hot sikwate - plus so much more, mostly cooked on the spot and served hot. The treat is a most awaited feature of the Christmas season in the country. This year in Cebu City the tradition really comes alive.

Islands Pasalubong offers freshly prepared delicacies and native food items at its Salinas (Lahug) and Sinulog Square (across Magellan's Cross) branches starting at 5 a.m., from December 16 to 24, to make it convenient for Mass attendees to avail old-time favorite Pinoy delicacies. The mainly rice-based snacks are affordable, filling, and come in small, easy-to-take-home sizes. Whether going home or heading straight for work after Simbang Gabi, the snack items are sure holiday treats to make one and loved ones happy.

There's good reason why rice-based delicacies or kakanin are sold after Sambaing Gabi. Aside from the good taste, the snack also provide much-needed energy for those who need to go to work after the early dawn Mass. Among Filipinos completing the nine-day Simbang Gabi is the way to make sure that their wishes for the coming year will be granted.