In the Philippines, twelve round fruits are traditionally prepared for New Year's Eve prosperity. The fruits symbolize coins or wealth, and the twelve are commonly associated with the twelve months of the coming year.
The custom is part of media noche, the midnight meal shared as the year changes. Families may choose fruits such as oranges, grapes, apples, melons, or other rounded produce, depending on availability and household preference.
Round shapes are important because they resemble coins, while abundance at the table expresses hopes for prosperity. Other Filipino New Year customs include making loud noises, wearing polka dots, and displaying foods believed to attract good fortune, though practices differ among families.
This tradition should not be confused with Spain's twelve grapes. Both customs use the number twelve, but the Philippine practice concerns a selection of round fruits and the midnight feast, while the Spanish ritual specifically requires eating grapes with the clock chimes.