Jose Mari Chan on Christmas Memes: ‘Don’t overdo it’
JOSE MARI CHAN – Christmas memes are appreciated by Jose Mari Chan, but he advises against overdoing them.
While “flattered” by the Christmas memes depicting him as ushering in the “Ber-months,” veteran singer Jose Mari Chan expressed a desire for people not to overdo the humorous social media posts. He cautioned that excessive memes might generate “negative reactions.”
“They’re using the same picture every year,” he said with a smile. “I’m complimented but I don’t want them to overdo it because it could create negative reactions to it instead of being nice and positive but it could create a ‘Sus, siya na naman.’”
Jose Mari Chan emphasized that his memes should not overshadow the true meaning of Christmas. “I felt flattered, complimented,” he said on the first time he saw the memes. “But I always say don’t let that take away from the real symbol of Christmas — not Santa Claus, but our baby Jesus being born.”
At 79, Chan expressed his gratitude for being recognized as one of the symbols of Christmas in the Philippines, but he was quick to point out that Jesus is the true essence of the holiday.
“Well, thank God, but I should not be the symbol of Christmas,” he said. “Because there’s really only one symbol of Christmas and that’s the baby Jesus, His birth. It should not be anybody else but our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Jose Mari Chan also expressed gratitude to his fans for their support, saying he’s pleased his music has touched people’s lives.
Recently, the singer made headlines when he became emotional while performing “Christmas in Our Hearts” at an event, warming netizens’ hearts. However, some were also concerned, noting his deep association with the Christmas season for Filipinos.
Over the years, Chan has earned the title “Father of Philippine Christmas music” due to his timeless hits, including “Christmas in Our Hearts,” “A Perfect Christmas,” “Beautiful Girl,” and “Please Be Careful With My Heart.”
Since the release of his debut album, “Deep in My Heart,” in 1969, Chan has won several Awit Awards, including Best Christmas Recording, Album of the Year, and Best Jazz Recording.