BRUSSELS, Belgium – Filipinos in Belgium had an early Christmas treat after they celebrated “Pasko sa Brussels” early this week.

Filipino workers who have been away from home for so many years attested that celebrations such as this made them feel the true essence of Christmas in the Philippines.

“Pag ganitong nagsama-sama kami, para na rin kaming nag-pasko sa Pilipinas,” Tess Diaz said.

Allen Salazar, who has been in Belgium for five years now, admitted there’s no place like home. But he made it clear that “Pasko sa Brussels” has somehow eases their homesickness.

“Dahil sa ‘Pasko sa Brussels’, nawawala ang homesickness namin,” she said.

‘Pasko sa Brussels’

The first part of the program could be compared to a musical variety show as performers, young and old showed their singing and dancing prowess.

Pinoys and Belgians enjoyed all the traditional Filipino food such as dinuguan, ginataang laing, Pinoy barbecue, puto’t kutsinta among others.

Even accessories such as necklaces and bracelets which were handcrafted in the Philippines served as major attractions to many.

But the highlight of the celebration was the Christmas tree decoration done by Filipino leaders. It symbolized the unity among Filipino communities in Belgium that have been helping OFWs for several years now.