The philippine weddings They are a fascinating reflection of a culture rich in traditions, historical influences, and values deeply rooted in family unity and love. With customs that have evolved over the centuries, these ceremonies combine pre-colonial and colonial elements, while also adapting to modern trends. Below, we will explore the most notable traditions and symbolic rituals that make Filipino weddings unforgettable.
The importance of marriage in Filipino culture
In Filipino culture, marriage is considered a sacred event, a union not only of two people, but also of their respective families. This view is deeply rooted in the predominant Catholic tradition, a legacy of more than 300 years of Spanish colonization. Values such as respect, unity and devotion are fundamental, and are reflected in every aspect of the ceremony.
One of the key elements is the participation of the "'ninongs'" Y "ninangs«, godfathers and godmothers of the wedding. These figures play a crucial role not only during the ceremony, but also in the married life of the bride and groom, acting as counselors and spiritual guides.
The “Pamamanhikan”: the union of families
El Pamamanhikan is one of the most important traditions before marriage. It is the act in which the groom's family formally visits the bride's family to ask for her hand in marriage. During this meeting, the families discuss the wedding preparations and reinforce the understanding that marriage unites not only the couple, but also both families.
On this occasion, the groom's family usually wears gifts and prepare a feast to share. Historically, dowry was also discussed, which could be in the form of goods, money or services, depending on local customs.
Traditional and modern clothing
In the philippine weddings, the bride and groom's attire stands out for its symbolism and elegance. The groom traditionally wears the "Barong Tagalog"a formal shirt made of natural fibers like pineapple or abaca, characterized by its embroidered design and transparency. It is a light garment, ideal for the country's tropical climate.
On the other hand, brides often opt for modern wedding dresses Western-style, although some choose the Filipiniana dress, a more elaborate and culturally rich variant of the traditional Baro't Saya costume. These outfits not only reflect history, but also national pride in their cultural heritage.
Symbolism in the ceremony
The Filipino wedding ceremony is loaded with symbolism, representing the aspirations and values of the couple. One of the most prominent rituals is the wedding ceremony. unity candleAt the beginning, the parents of the bride and groom light two individual candles, and at the end, the newlyweds light a third candle together, symbolizing the union of their lives under a single flame.
Another significant ritual is the veil and ribbon ceremony. Once declared husband and wife, the ninongs and ninangs place a white veil over the couple's shoulders, representing divine protection and the union of the spouses. A white cord in the shape of a figure eight is then woven over them, symbolizing the eternal bond they share.
The use of deposits and their Hispanic connection
The use of arras is a tradition that connects Filipino weddings with Spanish heritage. These are 13 coins that represent prosperity and shared responsibility in married life. The godparents are usually the ones who acquire them, and during the ceremony they are solemnly handed over to the priest for his blessing. The groom then places the coins in the bride's hands as a sign of trust and mutual commitment.
Superstitions and beliefs in Filipino weddings
Superstitions are an essential part of weddings in the Philippines. For example, it is considered bad luck for the bride to try on her dress before the wedding day. It is also believed that guests should not leave the banquet before the bride and groom finish eating, as it could bring bad luck to the couple. To counteract this, those who must leave spin their plates three times as a sign of respectful farewell.
The banquet and the celebration: a feast of flavours
After the ceremony, the banquet is the moment of celebration par excellence. Traditionally, Filipino weddings were community events where the entire village participated, enjoying a feast that included typical dishes such as piglet (roast pork), the belly (noodles), and the buko salad (coconut dessert). Nowadays, many couples opt for more stylized receptions, with buffet-style banquets or formal dinners, but always maintaining the essence of Filipino cuisine.
The money dance and other modern traditions
A practice that has survived is the "money dance«. During this, guests pin banknotes on the clothes of the newlyweds while they dance, representing good wishes and prosperity for their life together. In addition, some couples release White dove as a symbol of peace and harmony, adapting this ancient tradition to a more modern context.
The philippine weddings These are meaningful events that combine ancient traditions with contemporary influences. By involving families and respecting symbolic rituals such as the veil, the ribbon and the arras, these ceremonies celebrate not only the union of two people, but also the bond of communities and cultures. Every element, from the Pamamanhikan to the banquet, is designed to honor love, respect and the continuity of their rich traditions.