Despite experiencing a devastating loss at Christmastime in her youth, Jenny Yngente Macabenta says the holiday season remains a special time for her.

“Christmas holds a special place in my heart, filled with both cherished memories and a sense of gratitude,” says Macabenta, founder and principal lawyer of Advocare Law, a Filipino Canadian law firm based in Toronto.

“My mom passed away on Christmas Eve and she was the ultimate gift-giver—our very own Santa Claus during Christmas! She would thoughtfully prepare gifts for everyone, from the driver to the help, always wrapping them with love and care. I remember that even on the year she passed, she had already prepared a box full of gifts, ready to be shared.”

Macabenta, who’s originally from Leyte, says she still remembers her mom’s gift-giving with the ancianas or elderly residents of Hospicio de San Jose, and she hopes to visit them again in remembrance of her mother.

“Though Christmas changed after her passing, I continue to honor her memory by ensuring that Christmas remains bright and joyful for my family. I put up the brightest lights, fill the space under the tree with gifts, and share presents with others—just as she did. In a way, I celebrate her memory by keeping her spirit of giving alive,” she says.

“I also encourage my own kids to share in their own ways, like volunteering to play music in senior homes, helping out at our community food pantry, and finding ways to give back all year round. These acts of kindness honor the values my mom instilled in me and help keep the true spirit of Christmas alive in our family.”

Her teenage children, who both play the saxophone, play music at senior homes and Christmas markets for free or in exchange for donations to their local food pantry.

Touches of Pinoy culture

Macabenta and husband Wilbert and their kids Jewella and Leon moved to Canada nine years ago, after years of living in Dubai. In their adopted home, Macabenta does her best to relive Pinoy Christmases the best way she can.

“I infuse my celebrations with touches of Filipino culture,” says Macabenta, whose favorite things back in the old country are “Simbang Gabi, the delicious noche buena feast, and the lively Christmas carols on every corner.”

She adds, “My gifts to Canadian friends always have a Filipino influence so that I can share a part of our heritage with them. Last year, I gave out gift boxes of Filipino ensaymada, which I ordered from a popular Filipino bakery in Toronto. Next year, I hope to be able to give out small parols.

“I also make it a point to attend Filipino community gatherings, where we share food, laughter, and, of course, never forget our dancing and singing skills! These moments of connection and generosity help recreate the warmth and spirit of Christmas in the Philippines, even when we are far from home.”

Macabenta said that when they were living in the Middle East, Christmases were “simpler and more subdued.”

“With only one Catholic church, the masses were packed with people, and the celebrations were predominantly among expatriates like us,” she said. Since Christmas wasn’t a public holiday, “we often had to take a personal leave just to celebrate with family.”

When she was growing up in the Philippines, she loved the togetherness of loved ones and friends to celebrate the season. “There’s something magical about how entire communities come together to celebrate, and the atmosphere is always filled with warmth, love, and generosity. After Christmas Day Mass, we would give candies to all the kids passing our street—a simple but joyful tradition that added to the festive spirit.”

Beloved traditions

Because their children lived mostly overseas all their life, the Macabentas try to recreate the beloved traditions they grew up with wherever they are, so the kids also get to experience the joys of Pinoy Christmas.

“In our hearts, we are still the same, holding on to the traditions that make Christmas special,” she says. “We try to do the same things—cooking the familiar feast or ordering the dishes I can’t manage to cook. We share the meal with family and friends who are like family here.

“We always go to Christmas Mass to honor the true reason for the season, just like we did in the Philippines. We exchange gifts and make sure to include those far away by sending small tokens or heartfelt messages. No matter where we are, the spirit of togetherness and generosity remains at the heart of our celebration.”

After living in the desert, the Macabentas have now embraced winter-themed activities for the holidays, like skiing, snowboarding, and visiting Christmas markets.

“I plan to do the same things as before—celebrating with family and friends who are like family here, enjoying the familiar feast, and exchanging gifts. We’ll attend Christmas Mass to honor the season’s true meaning. I also pray that I will have more opportunities to share my blessings this year, whether through small acts of kindness or by giving back to those in need. It’s a time to cherish what we have and spread joy to others, just as my mom taught me.” INQ