The term "Noche Buena" and the tradition itself started way back

when the Philippines was a Spanish colony. It continues to pass

 from generation to generation, celebrating the

festivity of Christmas (Pasko, in Filipino term).

Right away followed by Noche Buena for families to share the

best line of Filipino cuisine, along with the traditional

"Queso de Bola" (Edam cheese shaped into a ball) and

"Hamon" (ham) on every table.

Some have "Lechon" (roast pork), some don't.

But, what is truly unique in this Filipino tradition, is the presence

 of delicatessens like bibingka (rice cakes made from rice flour

topped with carabao cheese and grated coconut), Puto bumbong

(purple glutinous rice cakes steamed in bamboo cylinders and

 sprinkled with grated coconut and brown sugar), along with

 invigorating cups of salabat (ginger tea) not just at home

 but on almost every corner. On every block, especially

the ones close to churches, there are food stands or stalls of these Pinoy

Christmas goodies.

Although it doesn't snow in the Philippines, white Christmas

 is achieved when families get together. All members are

presented with gifts or no gifts and they share dinner and celebrate the nativity.

This season, its spirit continues until New Year's, all the

way to Three Kings (celebrated every first Sunday of the year).

 This is why the Philippines earned the distinction o

f celebrating the world's longest Christmas season.