For over half a century, Jose Mari Chan has been more than just a celebrated singer and songwriter. He has become a symbol of Christmas in the Philippines, with his music being an integral part of the holiday season.
Every year, as the “ber” months approach, his songs are guaranteed to be played in public places, at homes and on radio stations. His music has become inseparable from the Filipino Christmas experience, as essential as the parol and noche buena.
Born in March 1945 in the bustling city of Iloilo, Chan is a Filipino-Chinese singer, songwriter and businessman.
His father, a young Chinese immigrant from Fujian, arrived in the Philippines at the age of 13. He later established a sugar trading business in Bacolod, imparting to Chan the values of hard work, dedication and perseverance. While acknowledging his son’s musical talent, his father emphasized the importance of staying focused on business.
Chan’s mother, the only child of a Chinese mestizo and a Cebuana mestiza, instilled in him a deep sense of kindness, filial piety and the importance of family.
He was introduced to music early in life, with his maternal grandmother from Cebu often playing music at their home, while his mother, a talented pianist, further nurtured his musical exposure.
By the 1970s, Chan had already established himself in the Philippine music scene with his smooth voice and unforgettable songs. It was in the 1990s that he cemented his legacy with the release of Christmas in Our Hearts, an album that would go on to define the Christmas soundtrack for an entire generation.
The album, which includes beloved tracks like Christmas in Our Hearts, A Perfect Christmas and Little Christmas Tree, quickly became a classic.
What makes Chan’s Christmas music so cherished is its simplicity, warmth and emotional depth. His songs evoke feelings of nostalgia, familial love and togetherness–values that are central to Filipino Christmas celebrations.
Through his gentle melodies and heartfelt lyrics, he captures the essence of what Christmas means in the Philippines: a time for family, sharing, and reflecting on the blessings of the past year.
But Jose Mari Chan is much more than just a Christmas singer. His extensive catalog of love songs, including hits like Beautiful Girl, Please Be Careful with My Heart and Tell Me Your Name, have earned him a place in the hearts of listeners spanning generations.
Beyond his musical career, Chan also supports the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) in its charitable activities across the country.
“Christmas is more than just Santa Claus, carols, and gifts. It’s about coming together and sharing the spirit of unity and generosity,” Chan said.
“FFCCCII has played a crucial role in bringing communities together with care and love,” he said.
The federation consists of 170 Filipino Chinese chambers of commerce and other diverse industry organizations nationwide, from Aparri to Tawi-Tawi. Its mission includes promoting economic advocacy and philanthropic causes throughout the country.
