For many Filipinos, January is more than just the first month of the calendar. It feels like a clean slate, a reset button after the noise, feasting, and bustle of December. This sense of renewal is not accidental. It comes from a blend of cultural traditions, deep-rooted beliefs, and a shared psychological rhythm that makes the New Year feel like a fresh beginning.

At its core, this feeling reflects a universal “fresh start effect”, a psychological phenomenon where meaningful calendar transitions prompt people to separate themselves from past setbacks and look forward to change. The beginning of January becomes a natural milestone to reflect, set goals, and renew hope. While this effect is universal, in the Philippines it is amplified by cultural traditions and long-standing customs that mark the end of one year and the beginning of the next.

A Night Full of Symbolism

In Filipino homes, New Year’s Eve is locally called Bisperas ng Bagong Taon, which carries powerful symbolism. Families gather for Media Noche, a midnight feast filled with food believed to invite blessings for the year ahead. Dishes range from pancit (long noodles symbolizing long life) to lechon (representing abundance) and sticky rice cakes that are thought to bind families together.

A distinct custom is the display of 12 round fruits on the dinner table, one for each month of the coming year. The round shape resembles coins, embodying wealth and prosperity. Many families also wear polka dots or bright clothing, again echoing circular shapes that signify fortune.

These rituals are partially rooted in Chinese influence, brought to the Philippines through centuries of trade and cultural exchange. The symbolism of round shapes, communal feasting, and auspicious food items reflects beliefs about luck, prosperity, and continuity across cultures.

Traditions That Shape Mindset

Beyond symbols of wealth, Filipinos also engage in practices believed to ward off bad luck and welcome positive energy:

• Opening all doors and windows at midnight to let good fortune in.

• Making loud noises from firecrackers to noisemakers like torotot, this is to chase away evil spirits.

• Jumping when the clock strikes 12, a playful belief that it might help children grow taller and usher in a spirited year.

Some practices, like eating tikoy or sticky rice treats, reflect a blend of cultural influences, and these are from from Spanish to Chinese traditions that have been woven into Filipino identity over centuries.

The Hope Factor

This hopeful outlook doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties. Instead, it often reflects resilience — a quiet resolve to move forward despite them. For many, January is a moment for resolutions: small but meaningful goals to improve health, relationships, or financial habits after the indulgences of the holidays.

New Year’s Eve often brings people together. On Dec. 31, thousands filled Bonifacio Global City for NYE at the 5th, counting down the final moments of 2025 with phones raised, eyes on the stage and hopes fixed on a fresh start.

In a crowd that large, not everything is easy to see. Performers stand on elevated stages, fireworks light up the sky above the buildings, and the countdown clock can feel distant. That night, however, the vivo X300 Series helped bridge that gap, offering a clearer view of the celebration as it unfolded.

vivo X300 Series brought it all closer

As live performances filled the air, the vivo X300’s 200MP ZEISS APO Telephoto Camera captured artists like KZ Tandingan and TJ Monterde mid-song, G22 dancers in motion, and every movement of Apl de Ap that usually disappears into the lights from afar. Close-up shots revealed details often missed in a packed crowd, the intensity on a singer’s face, and the movement of hands during Dionela's guitar solo. It felt less like standing at the back and more like being right on stage with them.

Every year when October rolls around, Filipinos don’t just light candles and visit cemeteries for Undas — many also join in the fun of dressing up for Halloween parties and trick-or-treats. From classic horror icons to local mythical creatures, Pinoys bring their own creative twist to this spooky celebration.

Using Google Frightgeist and search-interest data as reference, here’s a look at the top Halloween costume trends among Filipinos, along with their relative popularity index based on online searches. These aren’t exact percentages, but rather a clear look at what Filipinos love to wear — year after year.

🕶️ 1. Superheroes and Comic Book Characters (Index: 100)

You can never go wrong with a superhero costume. From Spider-Man, Batman, and Wonder Woman, to local-inspired heroes, this category remains undefeated. It’s the go-to choice for those who want to look cool, confident, and instantly recognizable.

Whether it’s a full-body suit or a DIY version, superheroes dominate both global and local Halloween parties.

📺 2. Pop-Culture and Movie/TV Characters (Index: ~95)

When a hit series or blockbuster film comes out, expect its characters to flood Halloween parties. Think Wednesday Addams, Barbie, or even Ken. Filipinos are quick to join trends — thanks to TikTok and Reels inspiration. Pop culture costumes almost rival superhero looks in terms of popularity and creativity.

🧙 3. Horror Classics: Witch, Vampire, Ghost (Index: ~90)

It wouldn’t be Halloween without the classics. Witches, vampires, and ghosts never go out of style. These timeless costumes are easy to pull off and instantly recognizable. Some Pinoys even add a local twist — like a vampire with a barong or a ghost in a Filipiniana — keeping the look both spooky and proudly Filipino.

👹 4. Filipino Mythical Creatures (Index: ~80)

Here’s where Filipino creativity truly shines. Costumes inspired by local legends like the Aswang, Manananggal, Kapre, or Mangkukulam have become more popular in recent years. They’re unique, culturally rooted, and make any Halloween party more “Pinoy.” Whether it’s wings, fangs, or eerie contact lenses — these creatures never fail to stand out.

🎭 5. Anime, K-pop, and Cosplay Characters (Index: ~75)

Thanks to strong fandoms, cosplay is now part of Halloween culture. From anime heroes to K-pop idols, many Filipino fans take their dedication to the next level. These costumes are detailed, colorful, and often handmade — a testament to passion and fandom pride.

👑 6. Disney and Fairy-Tale Characters (Index: ~70)

Kids and families love these timeless favorites. From Cinderella to Elsa, these costumes bring a touch of magic to Halloween. Even adults who want a lighter, wholesome costume option often choose this route — perfect for office or family-friendly events.

🤡 7. Clowns, Joker, and Horror Villains (Index: ~65)

Creepy clowns and Jokers never fail to spook the crowd. These costumes often rise in popularity whenever a new horror or psychological thriller film trends. They’re bold, dramatic, and always make a strong visual statement — especially under dim lights and eerie party setups.

🐾 8. Animal Costumes (Index: ~60)

Cute, simple, and easy to wear — animal costumes remain a reliable option for both kids and adults. Whether it’s a cat, dog, or butterfly, these outfits are comfortable and fun. Plus, they’re easy to make at home or buy off the rack.

💀 9. Skeletons, Zombies, and the Undead (Index: ~58)

These horror staples remain part of every Halloween celebration. Whether it’s a classic zombie look or a glow-in-the-dark skeleton, these costumes keep the spooky spirit alive without too much effort or cost.

🎤 10. Celebrity and OPM-Inspired Looks (Index: ~55)

Finally, some Filipinos love dressing up as their favorite local icons — from famous singers to movie stars. Whether it’s a throwback to 80s OPM rockers or a parody of a viral celebrity outfit, these costumes add humor and local flavor to Halloween events.

📊 What These Costume Trends Reveal About Pinoys

Halloween costumes reflect more than just fashion — they reveal a lot about what Filipinos love and relate to.

• Global meets local: Superheroes and pop-culture icons dominate, but Pinoy mythical creatures hold a special place in our hearts.
• Influence of social media: TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram Reels drive what’s “in” — many Filipinos choose costumes that look great on camera.
• Creativity on a budget: Many DIY costumes prove that you don’t need to spend big to look amazing — resourcefulness is the Filipino superpower.

🎃 Quick Tips for Choosing Your Next Halloween Costume

1. Plan early. The best costumes take time — from materials to makeup.
2. Add a Filipino twist. Combine modern trends with our own culture — like a “Manananggal Barbie” or “Aswang Wednesday.”
3. Stay comfortable. Choose breathable materials, especially for outdoor events.
4. Be photo-ready. Pick costumes that look great in photos or videos.
5. Enjoy yourself! Halloween is all about having fun — the best costume is the one that makes you smile.

Filipinos are naturally creative, expressive, and fun-loving — and Halloween is just another chance to show that off. Whether you dress up as a hero, villain, mythical creature, or pop-culture icon, make sure your costume tells a story that’s uniquely yours.

After all, every costume — just like every kwento — is part of what makes Halloween in the Philippines so wonderfully one-of-a-kind.

EasyBrand officially opened its first Easy Training Center on October 3, 2025, with renowned chef Boy Logro leading its culinary programs. Despite the rainy weather, the launch pushed through as planned, symbolizing the brand’s commitment to growth and resilience in the culinary industry. The new facility aims to serve as a hub for chefs, food entrepreneurs, and beverage professionals to hone their craft and expand their business ventures.

Eat Pizza has opened its seventh branch at SM City Fairview, bringing its signature “slides”—Korean-inspired pizzas with bold, authentic flavors—to more customers.

The brand has steadily carved its place in the comfort food scene with a wide range of flavors under its “Slide for Everywant” concept, offering choices that cater to different cravings.

It’s a familiar scenario: friends planning a get-together struggle to agree on what to eat. One asks for Korean Sausage, another insists on Pepperoni and Cheese, while someone else leans toward Sweet Corn Cheese. Eat Pizza’s variety was created to solve that dilemma, ensuring everyone gets a slice of what they want.

Godox, a global leader in lighting solutions, has officially entered the Philippine market with a launch event held Aug. 19, 2025, at Shooting Gallery Studios in Makati City. Organized by JG Distribution, the event coincided with World Photography Day.

The launch gathered hundreds of photographers, videographers, filmmakers, directors, content creators and industry professionals for a hands-on showcase of Godox’s newest professional lighting technologies.

Empowering Creativity Through Innovation

Since its founding in 1993, Godox has been at the forefront of professional lighting solutions, pushing the boundaries of technology to make world-class tools accessible to both professionals and aspiring creators. From studio photography to large-scale film productions, Godox products have become trusted tools for storytellers around the globe.

Guided by the mission to provide "lighting solutions that empower creativity,"Godox believes every idea deserves the right tools to shine. Its entry into the Philippine market marks a new chapter of support for local creatives, equipping them with the technology to bring their visions to life.