P-pop Christmas: 9 Songs For Your Holiday Playlist

No one does Christmas quite like the Philippines. Come September, we’re already three months deep into the festivities. The malls are playing carols, the radio is in holiday mode, and suddenly, everything feels a little more festive — even when the weather says otherwise.

For me, Jose Mari Chan’s familiar “Whenever I see girls and boys…” playing at the mall near our house is enough to bring me back to the Christmases of my childhood, when the season meant the parol outside our house, the kids caroling at our gate, and the smell of bibingka or puto bumbong after Misa de Gallo. From Filipino classics like JMC’s Christmas in Our Hearts to global hits like Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas Is You and Justin Bieber’s Mistletoe, these songs have been at the heart of one of the longest Christmas celebrations in the world.

Now, with Filipino pop music on the rise, P-pop groups and OPM bands are putting their own spin on the season with original holiday tracks and fresh takes on Christmas favorites.

Whether you’re looking for something upbeat, sweet, nostalgic, or close to home, there’s a homegrown track ready to add to your playlist and bring out that holiday cheer.

1. Ligaya 

Singer: SB19 

Ligaya by SB19 captures the essence of friendship and family, making it a warm addition to your holiday soundtrack.

2. Christmas Party (Cover)

Singer: SB19 

A tribute to the enduring influence of Eraserheads, SB19’s rendition of Christmas Party gives the classic a unique take centered on love and global positivity — perfect for the yuletide season.

3. Maligaya Ang Pasko  

Singer: YGIG and former P-pop boy group PLUUS 

Celebrating the holidays with a special someone? Maligaya Ang Pasko is a sweet track that captures the joy of being together during this time of year.

4. Hashlove 

Singer: MNL48 

Sweeter than the desserts you’ll have during the holidays, Hashlove brings a charming and dreamy energy to your Christmas mix.

5. Walang Biruan (Christmas Rush Remix)

Singer: KAIA

In the Philippines, it’s not the holidays if it’s not traffic. KAIA’s Walang Biruan (Christmas Rush Remix) is a fun, upbeat track that embodies the hustle and bustle of the streets during the yuletide season.

6. Christmas Rush 

Singer: Calista 

Already looking forward to all the presents you’ll be giving (and receiving)? Christmas Rush captures the excitement brought about by the gift-giving season.

7. Joy to the World (Cover)

Singer: BINI 

BINI gives the Christmas classic Joy to the World a vibrant pop feel, offering a refreshing twist to the beloved holiday staple.

8. Bibingka 

Singer: Ben&Ben 

Nothing says Filipino Christmas quite like Simbang Gabi and a warm serving of bibingka. Ben&Ben’s Bibingka brings out those cozy holiday feels, especially the ones spent with a special someone.

9. A Perfect Christmas 

Singer: KAIA and Jose Mari Chan 

Of course, a Filipino Christmas playlist can never be completed without Jose Mari Chan. This time, the holiday icon joins KAIA for A Perfect Christmas, adding a new flavor to the holiday sound we’ve come to know and love.

While classics bring nostalgia and offer timeless music to Filipinos, P-pop brings modern, groovy beats to the mix, proving how the Christmas spirit can sound a little different with every generation, but still with that same vibe—happy, festive, and exciting—that keeps everyone dancing on their feet. 

So, may it be that you’re already putting up a Christmas tree, starting your holiday shopping, or still waiting for that holiday spirit to kick in, you can loosen up and let this P-pop playlist be your soundtrack of the season.

Happy “Ber” Months, CINQtizens! Let the Christmas vibes begin!

Words by: Geora Laine Mercene (with Jhezca Joie Brigola)