Christmas in the Philippines is incomplete without the presence of ham. But, do you have an idea how it became the star of Noche Buena?
According to food historian Jaime Salvador Corpuz, Spaniards brought ham to the Philippines during their colonization.
As meat is preserved, it can last a long journey from Spain to the Philippines. Friars serve ham at their Noche Buena table which became the status symbol for elites.
Despite being poor, Filipinos can still afford to buy and serve ham, Corpuz said.
He added that the meaning of ham has changed over time, not symbolizing the fruits of labor for the whole year.
Corpuz said that even with the limited income from their jobs, they still have the budget for ham, served as a special food during Christmas.
He also described ham as a connector that reunites each member of the family.
