In the Philippines, it is undeniable that Santa Claus carries a huge cultural relevance. He is seen as a face that brings joy, even in the face of disasters and turmoil.
One very special person who helps people in the Philippines celebrate Christmas is Santa R-Kayma Klaws. He is a Filipino citizen in his 70s and is of Irish descent with a natural-beard.
He has been spreading Christmas cheer among poor Filipino children by dressing up as Santa Claus during charity missions and corporate events in poor areas of the Philippines for over 50 years. He has a giant motor sleigh that is used in many missions all over the Philippines.
Santa R-Kayma Klaws owns the Philippines’ only reindeer farm at Mt. Isarog in Barangay Sta. Cruz, Ocampo, Camarines Sur.
It all started when he first publicly portrayed the role of Santa at the age of 15. It was during his visit to a leper colony in Cebu, and he realized that he could make a difference in the lives of others, especially the children and the poor. He also has two masters degrees in child psychology and business administration.
Santa Klaws also has a family with 15 children, but his first wife and eight of his children died in a car crash. Five out of wedlock, and the last two by his third wife, Edelin Toquero.
In a feature article published by Manila Bulletin, he shared that he has “dedicated my life to the image of the peaceful and loving ambassador who brings yuletide and peace to all in the spirit of birth of our savior, Jesus. The man doesn’t pick the suit. The suit usually picks the man.”
He then formed a group with other people. This group includes men with real beards who also portray the role of Santa. It also includes Elves, who help him prepare and deliver gifts to children, make suits for him, other Santas and themselves, and take pictures during charity missions and special events. Santa Klaws named his group the Pacific Santa’s. It was founded on February 6, 1964.
“So spreading cheer to kids all over the Philippines for 365 days a year became my lifelong mission.” He said.
Santa Klaws also host charity missions for children, senior citizens, the disabled, and even pets in various parts of the Philippines. He carries out many of these missions with the help of both government and non-government organizations. He also appear at special events organized by private companies, including clothing, shopping malls, radio and TV stations, and more.
“To this day, whenever I see children, especially in poor communities, I see myself in them. I remember how sad and difficult my childhood had been, and I promised to do what I can to help children everywhere in the Philippines.”
Story by Mikaela Alyn Motol
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