Jose Mari Chan, ever humble and always pleasant, shies away from the title “Father of Filipino Christmas Songs.” Instead, he’s delighted when kids refer to him as “Chanta Claus”
During a recent press conference for “Yule Stars,” his upcoming concert with Christian Bautista and Roselle Nava on December 1 at 8:30 pm at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Circuit Makati, Jose Mari Chan reiterated his stance: “Again, let me repeat, I don’t want to be called the ‘Father of Filipino Christmas Songs’ because I’m not. Long before I was born, there were already many Christmas songs composed by Filipino artists.”

“Some kids call me Chanta Claus,” he added with a smile. “¨“I love sharing my blessings [with them].”
Joe Mari’s generosity is just one of the many qualities extolled by Christian and Roselle.
Christian, sharing his admiration for the legendary singer-songwriter, revealed that Chan prefers to be addressed simply as “Joe.” He described him as not only humble but also highly collaborative, despite his immense success. Christian also admires Joe’s deep love for Original Pilipino Music (OPM) and affection for the Philippines.
Roselle Nava wholeheartedly agreed, emphasizing the joy of simply being in Jose Mari Chan’s presence. She echoed Christian’s sentiments, describing him as genuinely humble and supportive. In her eyes, he is an icon, a timeless figure, and an honor to work with.
The “Yule Stars” concert serves a noble cause, benefiting the Philippine Military Academy Alumni Association Inc. (PMAAAI). In a video message posted on the PMAAAI Facebook page, Secretary of the Department of National Defense, Sec. Gilbert Teodoro, explained the event’s objective: “to raise funds for PMAAAI’s less fortunate members, their dependents, and families, and for other corporate social governance projects that the association envisions.”
Sec. Teodoro urged the public to attend the shows and voiced his wholehearted support for this project, encouraging everyone to participate in this charitable endeavor.
Roselle commended the PMAAAI for its dedication to helping those in need through their charitable initiatives, while Christian expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the charity project, joining a lineup of top-caliber artists, including Joey G. and Angeline Quinto performing on November 30, and Ogie Alcasid and Nina taking the stage on December 2. Ice Seguerra will be the special guest at both shows.
“We are thankful that the PMAAAI invited us to be part of this wonderful charity project,” said Christian.
For those interested in attending the YuleStars concert series, tickets are available through Ticketworld.com. — G Trillana