Introduction
All Saints’ Day 2025 in the Philippines will be observed on November 1, 2025, as one of the most spiritually important and culturally meaningful days of the year. Known locally as “Undás” or “Todos los Santos,” this occasion honors all saints—both known and unknown—who are believed to be in heaven. In the Philippines, this day is more than a religious observance; it is a powerful celebration of family, faith, remembrance, and tradition.
Filipinos from all walks of life—whether living in the country or overseas—pause on this day to remember their departed loved ones, attend mass, light candles, and gather as families in cemeteries and homes. It is a time of deep reflection, unity, and cultural pride that highlights the strong Christian identity of the nation.
What Is All Saints’ Day and Why It Matters in the Philippines
All Saints’ Day is a Catholic solemnity that pays tribute to all saints and martyrs who have achieved eternal life in heaven. While the celebration is observed in many Christian countries, its observance in the Philippines is uniquely heartfelt and community-centered.
This day is a reminder of:
- The Catholic belief in life after death
- The importance of praying for souls
- The Filipino value of honoring ancestors
- The unity of families through remembrance
For many Filipinos, visiting cemeteries and offering prayers is not just a tradition—it is a sacred duty that strengthens the bond between the living and the departed.
Traditional Practices of All Saints’ Day in the Philippines
1. Visiting Cemeteries
Days before November 1, families begin cleaning, repainting, and decorating graves. On the day itself, cemeteries across the Philippines are filled with people bringing flowers, candles, and offerings. Some arrive as early as sunrise to avoid traffic and crowding.
2. Lighting Candles
Candles symbolize hope, eternal life, and prayers for the souls of the departed. A lighted candle is believed to guide souls toward peace.
3. Offering Flowers
Flowers such as chrysanthemums, sampaguita, and anthuriums are placed on graves as symbols of respect and remembrance.
4. Prayers and Masses
Filipinos attend special masses both in cemeteries and churches. Priests bless graves and lead families in collective prayer.
Regional Traditions Across the Philippines
Luzon (Northern Philippines)
In Luzon, especially in Metro Manila and nearby provinces, families gather in large memorial parks with tents, food, and sometimes even live music. The atmosphere is both sacred and communal, turning cemeteries into peaceful spaces of reunion. Some families spend the entire day—or even camp overnight—to honor their ancestors.
Visayas
In the Visayas, All Saints’ Day is a blend of solemn rituals and community bonding. Cebu and Iloilo are known for their unique ways of decorating graves with candles arranged in shapes of crosses or hearts. Families pray the rosary together and share native delicacies such as suman and binignit.
Mindanao
In Mindanao, both Christian and indigenous traditions are observed. In areas with mixed cultures, All Saints’ Day becomes a unifying event where families gather regardless of religious background. Some communities also incorporate ancestral rituals passed down through generations.
How Overseas Filipinos (OFWs) Observe All Saints’ Day
Millions of Filipinos abroad may not be physically present at home during Undás, but they continue the tradition spiritually.
Ways OFWs Celebrate:
- Lighting candles in their homes or local churches
- Attending All Saints’ Day mass in Catholic parishes abroad
- Participating in virtual prayers via video calls with family in the Philippines
- Posting online tributes or virtual memorials on social media
For many OFWs, this day brings nostalgia and emotional reflection, reminding them of their roots and the importance of family.
Symbolism: What Filipinos Believe on All Saints’ Day
Candles
Represent the light of faith and guidance for souls.
Flowers
Symbolize purity, love, and eternal respect.
Prayers
Believed to help souls in heaven and maintain spiritual connection between the living and the departed.
Family Presence
Unity is considered an offering of love. Being physically present at gravesites is seen as a sacred act of remembrance.
Traditional Filipino Foods During All Saints’ Day
Food is a meaningful part of the observance—symbolizing unity, memory, and gratitude.
Common Dishes:
- Bibingka and Puto Bumbong – often sold outside churches during Undás
- Suman and Cassava Cake – offered as remembrance foods
- Pancit – symbolizes long life and hope
- Kakanin (native rice cakes) – represents spiritual nourishment
Families share these dishes after prayers, turning the day into a celebration of life.
Modern Ways the Philippines Will Observe All Saints’ Day 2025
Eco-Friendly Practices
More Filipinos will use biodegradable candles and natural flowers to reduce waste.
Digital Memorials
Online remembrance platforms and livestreamed masses will be popular among OFWs and tech-savvy generations.
Cemetery Tourism
Popular cemeteries such as Manila Memorial Park, Loyola Memorial Park, and Heritage Park may see increased visitors, not only for remembrance but also for historical reflection and cultural tourism.
Economic and Social Impact of All Saints’ Day
All Saints’ Day contributes significantly to the Philippine economy. Millions of pesos are spent on:
- Flowers and candles
- Food and beverages
- Transportation and toll fees
- Cemetery services, memorial plans, and mass offerings
This day also promotes domestic travel as Filipinos return to their hometowns to be with their families.
Prayers for All Saints’ Day 2025
Eternal Rest Prayer
“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.”
Prayer for the Saints
“Lord God, we thank You for all the saints who have gone before us. May their example inspire us, and may their prayers guide us on our path to holiness.”
Conclusion
All Saints’ Day 2025 in the Philippines is more than a religious celebration—it is a living tradition that unites families, preserves cultural identity, and strengthens spiritual devotion. As candles light up cemeteries and prayers fill the air, this day becomes a powerful symbol of Filipino faith and love that endures across generations.
The observance of Undás is a reminder that remembering the dead is not an act of sadness, but an expression of love, gratitude, and eternal connection.
