Misa De Gallo

The Philippines, a country with a rich Catholic heritage, observes one of its most cherished traditions during the Christmas season: the Misa De Gallo and Simbang Gabi. These practices are not only religious but also deeply embedded in Filipino culture.

During the reign of the Spaniards in the Philippines, Misa De Gallo, roughly translated as “Mass of the Rooster,” was timed so that farmers and fishermen could fulfill their religious duties before starting their day’s work. The flickering candlelight from parols, or Christmas lanterns, illuminated the path to churches for early risers. As such, Misa De Gallo served as an opportunity for missionaries to evangelize the Filipino people.

Misa and Gallo are Spanish words. Misa means Mass while Gallo means Rooster. We are a Spanish colony from 1544 to 1896 so Spanish phrases became part of our tradition. Misa De Gallo is a Spanish expression meaning going to Mass when the rooster crows in the early morning, between 5 to 6 AM. Beginning December 16 up to 24.

Novena is taken from the Spanish word nueve or nine. A novena is a 9-day spiritual preparation before a fiesta. The December 16 novena is in preparation for the solemnity of the birth of Jesus Christ on December 25. The Misa de Gallo is the last great church festival celebrated at the end of the year.

One special attraction during the Misa de Gallo is the sale of Puto Bumbong, Hot creamy Sikwate, steaming bibingka, etc. after the Mass. We are very lucky because many parishes keep this tradition alive. Filipino Culture is different from the cultures of the other Asia Nations. And the Misa de Gallo is one of the main distinctions of our tradition and culture. We keep our faith alive because of the Misa de Gallo.

A folk belief states that completing all nine days of Misa de Gallo will lead to God granting a special request as part of the novena. If you think about it, Misa De Gallo is more than religious observances. They are cultural pillars that reflect the Filipino spirit.