Simbang Gabi sa Konsulado Returns to New York for 37th Year, Uniting Filipino Community in Peace and Hope
NEW YORK CITY, 13 December 2025 — The Philippine Consulate General in New York, in partnership with Filipino community organizations across the U.S. Northeast, successfully celebrated the completion of the 37th Annual Simbang Gabi sa Konsulado on 12 December 2025. This cherished nine-day novena Mass series reinforces strong community bonds and keeps vibrant Filipino Christmas traditions alive in the diaspora.
The series culminated in a festive final evening in Kalayaan Hall that gathered over 170 members of the Filipino-American community. The program featured significant cultural and religious elements.
In his opening remarks, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile emphasized the importance of preserving Filipino heritage. This was followed by a symbolic parol lighting, representing hope and the guiding light of the Christmas season. Thereafter, attendees prayed the rosary and select members of the community staged a heartfelt re-enactment of the traditional Panunuluyan. The closing Mass was then presided by Fr. Rizalino Garcia, chaplain for the Filipino Catholic Apostolate in the Archdiocese of New York.
“The unwavering support from our community, with 103 organizations serving as day leaders and sponsors, highlights the deep desire to pass on these meaningful traditions to the next generation,” said Consul General Mangalile. “Simbang Gabi is more than a mass; it’s a vibrant annual homecoming that fosters connection and brings the warmth of the Filipino Christmas spirit to the Northeastern United States.”
Following the service, attendees shared a joyful salu-salo featuring traditional Filipino dishes and holiday favorites, concluding the evening with caroling and gift-giving.
The Philippine Consulate General commended clergy partners, sponsors, volunteers, and the entire Filipino-American community for their dedication to sustaining this meaningful annual tradition. END