All Souls' Day in the Philippines

Attending special mass

Attending mass during special occasions has always been part of the Filipino traditions, and All Souls’ Day is not an exception. Many families would attend the special mass held for this day. Some of the cemeteries in the country would even host these masses.

Visiting the cemetery

Although not declared a public holiday, All Souls’ Day is still an important celebration in the Philippines. Some would request for leave at work so they can go back home to their respective provinces. Cemeteries are packed with people as the majority would visit the tombs of their deceased loved ones. They clean the graves, light candles, and offer prayers. Others would also bring flowers and food as offering.

On this day, the cemeteries become livelier than usual. There are families who would even choose to stay for two or three consecutive days. They would camp out at their deceased relatives’ tombs and reminisce the happy memories they used to share with them.

Preparing special dishes

Preparing the favorite dishes of the deceased relatives is another Filipino tradition during All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. People would bring these dishes to the cemetery. A portion is prepared as offering for the dead while the rest are enjoyed by family members and friends. Others would also leave food at their altars at home as another form of offering.

Traditional dishes typically prepared include Pancit Bihon, lumpia, spaghetti, fried chicken, menudo, and Filipino barbecue, among many others. Desserts like maja blanca, sapin-sapin, puto, cassava cake, and coffee jelly are also commonly served.