Half of Pinoys expect happy Christmas, lowest on record

Only half of Filipinos expect to have a happy Christmas this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

This is the lowest percentage recorded since SWS began surveying in 2002, with previous lows at 62% in 2013, 2006, and 2005.

The expectation of a happy Christmas has dropped sharply from last year's 79%, reflecting the impact of the pandemic on Filipinos' outlook.

In contrast, 15% expect a sad Christmas, which is also a new record high surpassing the previous peak of 11% in 2011.

The survey found that families experiencing involuntary hunger and those who believe their quality-of-life has worsened are more likely to anticipate a sad holiday season.