In the town of Bulakan, Bulacan, apart from the traditional caroling, there is also an annual knocking on every house by young people who play the roles of Saint Joseph and Mary during the Christmas season.
The young people practice the tradition of ”Panunuluyan” as a reminder of the true spirit of Christmas.
The young people dressed up as Saint Joseph and the Blessed Virgin Mary and go around the community and act out their search for a place to stay to give birth to baby Jesus.
It was learned that with each knock, they bring a message of sincere faith, hope and humility.
This work has been underway for over a decade in Barangay Bambang and is led by the Parish Commission on Youth or PCY of San Isidro Labrador Parish.
Its goal is to deepen the faith of youth and strengthen family ties in the community.
“Whenever the Holy Family knocks on every door, people are not only welcomed by children in costumes. They also welcome the spirit of Christmas as a reminder of God’s humility and the importance of family. When we say family, it takes many forms. As long as there is love, there is family,” said Joshua Roque, PCY Coordinator.
Amidst the modern celebration of Christmas, Bulacan lodging continues to prove that Filipino traditions that unite the community and remind us of the true meaning of Christmas are very much alive.
The ‘Panunuluyan’ started on December 6 until December 24.
