Every September, social media buzzes with memes of Jose Mari Chan ‘peeking’ from corners, ready to serenade Filipinos once more. The memes are funny, sure, but the man and his music are no laughing matter. For Filipinos, he’s a national institution. He’s the voice that sets the mood, the soundtrack to a season that stretches on for four months.

You can’t escape the sound of Christmas in the Philippines once September arrives. Walk through a mall, ride a jeepney, or simply turn on the radio, and you will hear ‘Christmas in Our Hearts’ on a constant loop. It is a tradition that spans generations; Chan himself has expressed his gratitude in interviews, saying he feels honored to be a symbol of the holiday spirit for so many. The song’s reach is so powerful that even young children know it by heart.

The sentiment is even deeper for the millions of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) around the world. For them, hearing the first notes of a Jose Mari Chan song isn’t just a sign of the season. It’s a lifeline, a way to connect with a home that is often thousands of miles away.

For OFWs, the music brings both comfort and a touch of melancholy. It’s a reminder of what they’ve sacrificed, time with their loved ones, but also a way to feel connected to their families and culture. Their remittances often provide the financial boost that kicks off the holiday spending spree back home, making the long Christmas season possible.