Simbang Gabi (dawn mass) in Rizal Province not only gathers churchgoers for an early morning dose of worship but also offers a chance to savor Filipino native delicacies that abound in the vicinity of the Antipolo Cathedral right after the religious services.

Just a few steps away from the International Shrine of the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage in Antipolo City, a corner of the sidewalk transforms into stalls that sell the Christmas season favorites- bibingka and puto bumbong.

Bibingka, often referred to in English as rice cake, is made from a mixture of sweetened glutinous rice flour, coconut milk, eggs, butter and baking powder, then baked the traditional way in a clay pot lined with banana leaves.

Toppings such as butter, grated cheese, and slices of salted eggs make bibingka special and uniquely Filipino.

Churchgoers in the cathedral, especially those seated outside, not only enjoy the cool early morning breeze but also the distinct aroma of bibingka wafting from the stalls during the Holy Masses.

Puto bumbong, another seasonal delicacy popular during the holiday season, is made from finely ground rice steamed in bamboo tubes, or the bumbong. Variations include serving it with butter and condensed milk, or the more traditional sugar and grated coconut.

Long lines form at these stalls during each Simbang Gabi mass, so buyers are advised to pre-order for a hassle-free takeout of these two Christmas delicacies.

In Antipolo City, one stall even makes and sells bibingka and puto bumbong year-round, making these Christmas favorites available daily.