Christmas in the Philippines starts as soon as September arrives on the calendar, and this year, Asia’s Romantic Balladeer Christian Bautista is formally launching the season with something special. With Freddie Santos writing the lyrics and Jose Mari Chan composing the music, Christian released a sincere rendition of the well-known Jose Mari Chan song “Let Love Be the Gift,” on September 1. This time, the song was a duet with Abi Marquez, the “Lumpia Queen” of the Philippines.
Released with the approval of Jose Mari Chan and his label Signature Music Inc., the record was produced by Christian, had music arranged by the renowned Homer Flores, and was teased on social media with a cute picture of the three of them playingfully peeking out.
The collaboration came naturally—both Christian and Abi are artists under NYMA Talent Management, where Christian also serves as CEO. As he began mapping out his annual holiday project, he searched for the perfect duet partner who could match the magic of the season. Abi, a close friend of Christian’s, fit the bill perfectly.
Though best known as the Philippines’ Lumpia Queen, Abi has long held a quiet love for music, even taking voice lessons before her rise to internet fame. With her natural charm, engaging presence, and a sweet sincerity in her voice, she brought just the right touch of brightness. Paired with Christian’s timeless vocals, their duet blossomed into a heartfelt celebration of Christmas.
Christian personally guided Abi through the recording process, gently coaching her to bring out the best in her voice. The result? A holiday duet brimming with warmth, nostalgia, and the unmistakable magic of Christmas.
“Christmas has always been about love, family, and sharing joy. To sing this song again, this time with Abi, feels like a gift in itself. She’s proving herself to be a multidimensional talent, and I hope people will enjoy listening to this side of her.” – Christian Bautista
“I never imagined I’d get to record a song—much less a Christmas song with Christian! It was such a dream come true, and I hope people feel the joy we felt while making it.” – Abi Marquez
With the release of “Let Love Be the Gift,” Christian and Abi remind us that the true spirit of Christmas lies in togetherness, kindness, and, of course, music that brings us closer. From the kitchen to the stage, Abi, with her culinary charm, and Christian, with his timeless artistry, have blended their worlds into one magical duet.
And the celebration doesn’t stop here, fans can look forward to an exciting music video as the holidays draw nearer, along with other surprises that promise to spread even more Christmas cheer.
Turn on the Christmas lights, hang the parol outside your window, get a cup of hot tea, and hit play. Officially, the season of music, laughing, and love has arrived.🎄✨
Christian Bautista and Abi Marquez’s song “Let Love Be the Gift” is currently accessible on all streaming services.
FOLLOW CHRISTIAN BAUTISTA ON HIS SOCIALS:
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | X
FOLLOW ABI MARQUEZ AND HER FOOD ADVENTURES ON:
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | X
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON CHRISTIAN BAUTISTA AND ABI MARQUEZ, PLEASE CONTACT:
Karen Tumbali | [email protected]
To learn more about NYMA, visit nyma.ph