This month we revisit the origins and meaning of a traditional Christmas decor that is uniquely Filipino
When city streets and houses light up with colourful Christmas lanterns, it only means one thing—the festive season is here. Known locally as parol, the star-shaped lanterns are, however, more than just mere decorations but rather, symbols of the victory of light over darkness. Signifying hope amidst despair, it holds a special meaning even more in this pandemic—as a reminder to remain resilient and optimistic and put our faith in the Lord.
Traditionally, the parol is made with bamboo sticks and papel de japon (Japanese paper) illuminated inside by candle or carbide. Today, these lanterns are lit up either with light bulbs manually operated with various switches or LED lights for dancing light sequences that give joy not only to kids but to everyone.
The parol’s traditional simple design may be credited to Francisco Estanislao, an artisan from the province of Pampanga, who crafted a five-pointed paper star lantern in 1908. Eventually, more durable materials, such as plastic and fiberglass, were used. But an authentic Philippine material that has become significantly popular for the parol is the capiz, iridescent shells indigenous to our seas, flattened and cut into precision. The shells can stay in natural pearly white or be tinted like stained glass pieces.
