All Souls' Day 2025 in the Philippines

All Souls' Day, observed on November 2, is a day when Filipinos pray for the souls of the departed, asking for their peace and eternal rest. Families visit cemeteries, offer flowers, and light candles in memory of their loved ones.

All Souls' Day: A Public Holiday?

All Souls' Day is not an official public holiday in the Philippines, but many businesses and schools allow flexible schedules as families continue cemetery visits and prayers for their departed loved ones.

All Souls' Day

All Souls' Day, observed on November 2, was introduced to the Philippines by Spanish missionaries in the 16th century. It is a Catholic tradition dedicated to praying for the souls of the faithful departed, especially those who are believed to be in purgatory. The belief is that through prayers, masses, and acts of charity, souls can be helped on their journey toward eternal rest. This tradition deeply resonated with the Filipino people's strong family values and respect for ancestors.

Over time, All Souls' Day became closely connected to All Saints' Day, forming the two-day observance known locally as "Undas." Families not only honored the saints but also focused on their departed loved ones, offering prayers, lighting candles, and visiting graves. Although All Souls' Day is not a regular public holiday, it remains widely observed, reflecting the deep spiritual bond between the living and the dead in Filipino culture.

Observance of All Souls' Day in the Philippines

All Souls' Day in the Philippines is marked by heartfelt visits to cemeteries and memorial parks. Families continue to clean and decorate the graves of their departed relatives, offering flowers, lighting candles, and praying for their souls. Churches hold special Masses dedicated to the faithful departed, and many families request the names of their loved ones to be included in prayer intentions. The atmosphere remains solemn yet filled with the warmth of family gatherings and shared remembrance.

Although November 2 is not an official public holiday, some businesses and schools provide flexible hours to allow families to continue their observances. Many people take advantage of the long weekend that begins with All Saints' Day to stay longer in their hometowns. During this time, it is common to see cemeteries filled with families sharing meals, stories, and prayers, creating a strong sense of community and continuity across generations.

The importance of All Souls' Day lies in its role of keeping the memory of loved ones alive while reinforcing the values of prayer, hope, and connection. It reminds Filipinos of the importance of honoring those who came before them, maintaining spiritual ties, and offering prayers as acts of love. Through these traditions, Filipinos find comfort, deepen their faith, and celebrate the enduring presence of their loved ones in their hearts.

All Souls' Day Observances