In the Philippines, Christmas begins as soon as September rolls in—and this year, Asia’s Romantic Balladeer Christian Bautista is welcoming the season with something extra special. On September 1, Christian released a touching remake of the Jose Mari Chan classic “Let Love Be the Gift”—lyrics by Freddie Santos and music by Jose Mari Chan—this time reimagined as a duet with none other than Abi Marquez, the country’s beloved “Lumpia Queen.”
Produced by Christian, arranged by the legendary Homer Flores, and released with the blessing of Jose Mari Chan and Signature Music Inc., the project was first teased on social media with a playful photo of Christian, Abi, and Jose Mari Chan beaming with holiday cheer.
A Natural Collaboration
The partnership came together seamlessly, as both Christian and Abi are talents under NYMA Talent Management, where Christian also serves as CEO. When planning his annual Christmas project, Christian sought the perfect partner to capture the warmth of the season—and Abi, a close friend and natural performer, was the ideal choice.
Though best known for her viral culinary charm, Abi has always held a quiet passion for music, even taking voice lessons before her rise to fame. With her sincerity, natural presence, and bright vocal tone, she brought a fresh spark to the timeless holiday track. Guided by Christian throughout the recording process, Abi found her voice alongside his signature ballad style, resulting in a duet filled with warmth, nostalgia, and unmistakable Christmas magic.
From the Kitchen to the Studio
“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,” shared Christian. “She’s proving herself to be a multidimensional talent, and I hope people will enjoy listening to this side of her.”
For Abi, the experience was nothing short of a dream come true: “I never imagined I’d get to record a song—much less a Christmas song with Christian! It was such a dream, and I hope people feel the joy we felt while making it.”
The Spirit of the Season
With “Let Love Be the Gift,” Christian and Abi remind listeners that the essence of Christmas lies in togetherness, kindness, and music that brings people closer. Their worlds—Abi’s kitchen creativity and Christian’s timeless artistry—blend seamlessly in this heartfelt duet.
The celebration continues in the coming weeks with the release of a music video and more surprises designed to spread holiday cheer.
So grab a cup of hot tsokolate, hang the parol by the window, switch on the Christmas lights, and press play. The season of love, laughter, and music has officially begun. 🎄✨
“Let Love Be the Gift” by Christian Bautista and Abi Marquez is now streaming on all digital platforms.
Follow Christian Bautista on:
Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | X
Follow Abi Marquez and her food adventures on:
Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | X
