Filipinos honor loved ones in annual All Saints’ Day tradition

Undas, derived from the Spanish word “honras,” has been a generational practice bringing families together. “Just because they have passed away does not mean we should forget them,” Santos stated, as she offered flowers and candles alongside her family, sharing prayers and snacks.

Santos shared fond memories of her father’s generosity, recalling his habit of giving small gifts to his children and grandchildren. She is now instilling this tradition in her own children, ensuring they understand the importance of honoring their ancestors. “We pass this on to our children to make sure they are aware of the tradition, so that if something happens to us, they know what to do,” she explained.

The observance blends Catholic traditions with pre-colonial ancestor veneration practices. Filipinos historically honored ancestral spirits, or anito, with offerings. This practice evolved following Spanish colonization in 1565 and the introduction of Catholicism, with influences also seen in Mexico, where families often spend the day or night at gravesites or set up altars.

Anthropology lecturer Nestor Castro at the University of the Philippines Diliman, noted the long history of ancestor worship in the Philippines. He explained that similar customs are also found in countries like Bolivia, Poland, and Hungary.

Undas also strengthens family bonds. Castro described how families often delay burials until distant relatives can attend funeral wakes, creating opportunities for reunions. Sharing sticky rice cakes, symbolizing kinship, is also a common practice. Mike Mamaril, a 42-year-old school maintenance employee, continues the tradition passed down from his grandparents, using the occasion to reminisce about his parents and share childhood memories. “We always talk about who among us got scolded the most,” he said.