Filipino Funeral Customs - Paying homage to the dead in the Philippines

Beach in Northern Mindoro (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A mix of Christian values and indigenous beliefs, Filipino funeral customs represent a unique blend of ancient and contemporary traditions. In times both past and present, Filipino culture has valued a specific set of funeral customs to ensure peaceful transitions into the afterlife. In order to pay homage to dead loved ones in Filipino culture, a wake is held that typically lasts three to seven days. And when a family member passes away, the wake is typically held at either the family’s home or a local funeral parlor. The body is embalmed, and the casket stays open for viewing purposes. Traditionally, guests, relatives, and participants are expected to donate money to help with the funeral costs. And oftentimes, food and warm beverages are served for those staying up for the night vigil, providing comfort and respite during a difficult time.

On the evening that the loved one has been buried, the family holds prayers in a tradition that continues for nine nights–and on that final night, family and friends gather together for a formal, sit-down meal.

On the day of the funeral, the casket is either loaded into a hearse or carried by family members to the burial site. On the evening that the loved one has been buried, the family holds prayers in a tradition that continues for nine nights–and on that final night, family and friends gather together for a formal, sit-down meal. According to Filipino beliefs, the ceremonial dinner has specific importance because the loved one’s soul leaves this world and moves onto the afterlife on the ninth day after burial. After that, the bereavement period for friends and family extends for a full year in which the Filipino family who has lost a loved one will not host any personal or family celebrations. It’s another way to pay homage to those who’ve passed away; a means of upholding respect for the deceased, whose surviving family members work through the grieving process.

This was a sad site, the line went on for a very long of Filipinos following the casket on the way to the cemetery. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

There are also several superstitions in the Philippines surrounding death and dying — primarily concerning black animals. For example, should a black-colored butterfly appear in your presence, it signals the death of your next of kin. An equally foreboding signal, and one that has permeated popular American culture, is that of the black cat. Those feeling ill and heading to the hospital will likely not want to see a feline with a dark coat of fur for fear that they won’t survive. Likewise, an owl hovering above the home of a sickly person signals that death is indeed on the way. And so, by incorporating Christian practices with traditional Filipino beliefs, the funeral customs of the Philippines preserve a unique respect for loved ones transitioning from one life to the next.

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