WITH the cold breeze of December, some would want to sleep longer under the warmth of their blankets.

But starting December 16 of every year, Filipino Catholics would brave the cold and wake up early to attend the Misa de Gallo.

Misa de Gallo means Rooster’s Mass in English. But to most Filipinos, it is simply known as “Simbang Gabi.”

Simbang Gabi is a novena mass that Filipino Catholics attend for nine days before Christmas. Many believe that when one attends mass for nine days, his or her wish would be granted. No wonder why many people are motivated to attend the mass. But more than obtaining special graces, the Simbang Gabi serves as an avenue where family and friends gather and celebrate.

Simbang Gabi would not be complete without bibingka and Puto bumbong. After receiving spiritual food from the mass, people would eat bibingka and puto bumbong, which have also become part of this yearly tradition.

Simbang Gabi also signals the start of the festive celebration of Christmas.

Here’s a video report done by INQUIRER.net multimedia reporter Anna Valmero about this yearly tradition.