High cable ride

Despite a humid Yuletide Season in the Philippines this year and the 'anxiety' of an impending end of the world (if you believe in the Mayans' prediction), the presence of the spirit of Christmas is still apparent in the country. Everywhere, the joy of the season makes people smile because they just received their bonus, children excited to see what Santa have in store for them, yuppies worrying about eating too much at company parties, old-time friends and classmates finding a reason to get together for a reunion.

Though the disastrous effects that Typhoon Pablo had in our neighboring Compostela Valley makes me rethink about spending a lavish Christmas celebration and helping the victims instead, I reckon it's not that bad to enjoy the sights, sounds and colorful symbols of the season that brings out the kids in all of us.

Here are some pictures I was able to capture during my wandering in Manila and Davao.

Parol, the Pinoy version of Christmas lanterns are sold along the sidewalk of Gilmore in Quezon City, Philippines.

As early as November, this giant Christmas tree is already displayed in the middle of the Gaisano Mall of Davao, Philippines.

Belen or nativity scene, a tableau depicting the birth of Jesus Christ is on display at the lobby of Marco Polo Davao.

Large balloons adorned with Christmas decors are hanging inside EDSA Shangrila Mall in Mandaluyong, Philippines.

Japanese lanterns are the mas piled to make a giant Christmas tree in Binondo, Manila.