The true spirit of Christmas: Sydneysiders give early presents to kababayans in Pampanga

The Philippines is said to celebrate Christmas for the longest duration in the world, and it is by giving and sharing that Filipinos show the real meaning of the season. And before the celebration, let's see how Filipinos embark on ways to earn more.

Edison 'Ery' Rivera's creation 'Parol' a Christmas lantern from recycled materials won during the Parol-making contest during Philippine Christmas Festival in Sydney last October 22, 2022. The proceeds will benefit his grandmother, and fellow senior citizens in Arayat, Pampanga. Source: Ery Rivera

Key Points

• Edinson ‘Ery’ Rivera is the breadwinner for the family and supports his grandmother Natividad Estrella as an expression of love for being both a parent in the absence of his parents
• Parol is a star-shaped ornament that originated in the Philippines during the Spanish colonisation when Spaniards brought Christianity to the country
• Christmas is all about giving and loving especially for those who are in need