Despite the cool early morning breeze, the unmistakable warmth of a Filipino Christmas filled the grounds of Malacañang as worshippers gathered for the fourth day of Misa de Gallo on December 19, 2025.
The dawn Mass forms part of the Office of the President’s annual “Tara sa Palasyo” festivities, an open invitation for Filipinos to celebrate the Yuletide season within the Palace grounds alongside family, friends, and fellow believers. Over the years, the tradition has grown into more than a religious observance, becoming a space where faith, community, and the simple joys of Christmas come together.
Not all those who come to Malacañang during Misa de Gallo attend solely to pray. Some arrive before sunrise carrying trays of familiar holiday treats, offering free Filipino delicacies to churchgoers as a gesture of goodwill and shared celebration. For them, giving has become as meaningful as the Mass itself.
Among them is Jethro Raquiza, who has been making the daily journey from Antipolo to Malacañang since the start of Simbang Gabi. Grateful for the opportunity to be part of the festivities, Raquiza and his small business have been distributing free puto bumbong and bibingka to those attending the Mass.
He shared that the experience brings joy rather than exhaustion, saying that giving bibingka to fellow Filipinos during Simbang Gabi feels deeply fulfilling. Beyond the food, Raquiza also offered a heartfelt prayer for the nation, expressing hope that Filipinos continue to persevere in life and trust that the country’s challenges will eventually be resolved through unity and prayer.
Misa de Gallo at Malacañang began on December 16 and will continue until December 24, 2025, with dawn Masses held daily from 4:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m., welcoming Filipinos to reflect, give thanks, and share in the enduring spirit of Christmas.