Ninong is the Tagalog word for “godfather” and Ninang means “godmother.”
It is a tradition for Filipino children to kiss or touch to their forehead the hand of an old person they meet. This is called mano, from the Spanish word for “hand.” When done to their godfather or godmother, kids expect a monetary gift, especially during Christmas.
ORIGINAL TAGALOG SONG LYRICS
Masagana, masaganang Bagong Tao’y kamtan
Ipagdiwang, ipagdiwang araw ng Maykapal
Upang manatili sa atin ang kapalaran
At mamuhay na lagi sa kapayapaan
Mano po Ninong, mano po Ninang
Narito kami ngayon
Humahalik sa inyong kamay
Salamat Ninong, salamat Ninang
Sa aginaldo pong inyong ibinibigay
A merry, merry Christmas may you have
May you have a prosperous new year
Celebrate the day of our Lord
So that we maintain our good fortune
And always live in peace
Respect to you, Godfather, Godmother
We’re here right now
Kissing your hands
Thanks Godfather, Thanks Godmother
For the gift you’re handing to us
