PH to have longest night on Dec. 22

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 22) – The Philippines will experience its longest night this year on Dec. 22, Thursday, according to the state weather bureau.

This is because of the December Solstice, which happens when the sun reaches its southernmost point in the sky, giving off the fewest number of sunlight hours.

In its astronomical diary, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said the solstice occurred at 5:48 a.m. 

This marks the start of winter for countries in the northern hemisphere and summer for those in the southern hemisphere.

For the Philippines, which only has wet and dry seasons as it is close to the equator, this usually means shorter and colder days ahead.