No Juan Is An Island

The crisp Baguio air, the gentle glow spilling from church doors before sunrise, the shared anticipation among the faithful—it’s the season of Simbang Gabi (Dawn Masses), and the city is preparing for this beloved Christmas tradition. For many, including myself, it’s a deeply personal and cherished experience that anchors the true spirit of Advent.

I’ve always looked forward to this season. From 2003, I completed the full nine-day Novena for 16 consecutive years! Those pre-dawn masses, followed by a warm, shared breakfast with friends, are woven into the fabric of my most treasured Baguio memories. Their company and the quiet camaraderie made the effort worthwhile, and I deeply miss doing this with them, now that they’ve scattered to distant places.

Unfortunately, life has caused a six-year break in my streak. In 2019, I was in Europe for a training progran and couldn’t participate. The pandemic soon followed, changing everything. Most recently, in 2022, I was diagnosed with a progressive eye condition. The resulting vision impairment has made simple tasks challenging, and attending an early morning mass—navigating the dim light and the pre-dawn crowds—seemed impossible. It was a tough realization that a tradition I loved was now hindered by my disability.

​But this year is different. I’m back living in Baguio, and the call of Simbang Gabi is louder than ever. It is more than just a religious obligation; it’s a beautiful reminder of those great memories shared with good friends, a spiritual reboot, and a connection to my community.

I badly want to complete the nine days again. It’s a challenge—the early hour, the low lighting, and the crowds pose real difficulties for someone with a visual impairment. Yet, I am determined to figure out how to do it.

Simbang Gabi is a testament to the Filipino spirit—a commitment made in faith and shared in joy. This year, it’s also a deeply personal quest for resilience and a hopeful return to a tradition that brings immense warmth to a cold Baguio Christmas. Wish me luck as I prepare to welcome the dawn!