For Filipinos, November 1 & 2 meant going to the cemeteries to pay respect to their dearly departed. Every year, we never fail to visit the grave of my late father who has been laid to rest at Calamba cemetery, a Roman Catholic public cemetery being managed by the San Nicholas parish located at V. Rama Ave., Cebu City. And every year, i never fail to be disappointed and disgusted about how the cemetery, supposedly a solemn place, has been converted into a commercial area where merchants display their wares for prospective buyers. I wonder if the Catholic priests are also making a windfall over the earnings made during the two-day event. Only in the Philippines... :-(
During All Saints Day (Nov. 1) and All Souls Day (Nov. 2) Filipinos from all walks of life, young and old, visit their dearly departed and pray for the eternal repsose of their souls.
Public cemeteries, considered as a solemn place, has been converted into a brisk commercial area during the two (2) day-event.
Lighting a candle in memory of our loved ones have been a tradition for Filipinos during All Saints and All Souls day celebrated on November 1 and 2 respectively.
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