Nothing can beat spending the holiday season in the Philippines, the home of the longest Christmas celebration in the world. This is at the heart of Gerardo Francisco Jr.’s choreography, Paska Sa Pinas, set to the music with the same title by Yeng Constantino.

The contemporary piece features four female dancers representing overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who are longing to come home and experience Christmas with their families. “May tatalo pa ba sa Pasko ng Pinas? / Ang kaligayahan nati'y walang kupas / 'Di alintana kung walang pera basta't tayo'y magkakasama / Ibang-iba talaga ang Pasko sa Pinas” the lyrics go. 

Pulling their luggage around, the dancers highlight the anticipation of homecoming and the joy of being reunited with loved ones who inspire them to work hard in order to provide a good life for the family.

Pasko Sa Pinas and other Christmas-themed pieces are featured in Ballet Manila’s Tala – a special show ongoing at the Star City every 6 p.m. at the activity center. It is free for all Star City patrons.

In this clip are principal dancer Jasmine Pia Dames, soloist Jessa Balote and company artists Marinette Franco and Angelika Tagupa performing Pasko Sa Pinas.