PROF. EMERITUS LEONOR MAGTOLIS BRIONES
IS the day before Christmas and preparations in the Philippines have reached fever pitch. Since the start of the “-ber” months in September, Filipinos have been preparing for Christmas. For four months, Christmas music has dominated the airwaves, glittery décor have been hauled out of storage boxes, Christmas trees put up and shopping lists prepared. Shopping malls compete with each other in luring customers and selling gift items. Traffic jams become daily events, especially in areas where huge shopping malls and entertainment centers are located.