New Delhi. The new year begins in the Philippines on New Year’s Day, January 1. Government offices, schools and most businesses remain closed. Public transport is limited to reduced bus and jeep services running during New Year’s Day.
New Year’s Day/New Year’s Eve celebrations begin on 31 December and continue until 1 January. New Year’s Day in the Philippines is short but uniquely celebrated throughout the country. This is also the time of year when many Filipino families get together and strengthen their family ties. New Year’s Day in the Philippines is a joyous holiday that is characterized by the intermarriage of religion and paganism that once characterized Hispanic Philippine society.
Filipinos celebrate New Year’s Day symbolizing their view of how the beginning of a new year opens up opportunities for a prosperous life. That’s why the Filipino dining table, which is the focal point of this holiday, is abundant with table food that comes in round or circular shapes to represent money. Fireworks on New Year’s Day also symbolize warding off bad luck.
