The bright star-shaped lantern traditionally displayed in the Philippines during Christmas and New Year's celebrations is the parol.
A parol is a decorative Filipino lantern whose star form represents the Star of Bethlehem. Traditional versions were made from bamboo strips and colored paper, while contemporary displays may use plastic, metal, electric lights, and elaborate mechanical designs. Lanterns are placed in homes, streets, schools, churches, and public spaces during the holiday season.
The parol is most strongly associated with Christmas, but it remains visible during the New Year period because Philippine holiday celebrations extend into the turn of the year. It should not be confused with a Japanese koinobori, which is a carp-shaped windsock, or a Latin American luminaria, which is generally a small light in a paper bag. The word “parol” comes from the Spanish farol, meaning lantern.