The kids then hurriedly left without finishing the song. Seemingly, they forgot to ask the man "Pasko" when, this year, next year, the year after?
The phrase is open ended. It is meant to discourage carolers.
"Balik lang sa Pasko" is now almost a byword especially when children, and even adults, go house to house for their "Karoling."
It has become handy for residents in driving away kids who kept coming back with their amusingly out of tune chorale. Others who find it difficult to part with their coins also yell the phrase.
But, when carolers are dressed presentably and have musical instruments, it is a different story. Those in the house would come out and dip into their pockets for an amount that would not embarrass them.
Clearly, even in this Yuletide season of giving, double standards still exist.
On the other way around, it is very seldom to find in this place carolers who offer their singing as a gift.
At one instance, a group of carolers were repeatedly shouting (not singing) "Merry Christmas!" at a house where the occupants appeared not to be there. They to be appeared irritated sensing they were ignored.
Local carolers always equate their singing to money. If they belt out high-level performance, it is most likely for the money, not for the spirit of the season.
In parallel, there are business establishments that have been sending out "valuable" gifts to some government offices. These gifts turn out to be investments actually.
Of course, some government offices have issued circulars to their personnel prohibiting them from accepting gifts, particularly during Christmas season. This is quite comical as it ironically reveals something rotten in that agency.
The more enterprising personnel obviously would not have the gift delivered at the office, but at the house. To them, No such phrase as "Balik lang sa Pasko!"
What a way to celebrate the birthday of Jesus Christ.
Nevertheless, enjoy the season and here is a wish for a bountiful and healthy year ahead.
