Filipino Headstone Traditions and Undas

For many Filipino families, remembering the dead is a family gathering — and the headstone is at its centre.

Faith and symbols

Most Filipino families are Catholic, so crosses, the Sacred Heart, the Virgin Mary and Santo Niño images are common. See Catholic symbols.

Wording

English is common, sometimes with Tagalog or another Philippine language. A familiar phrase is "Sumalangit nawa" — may he or she rest in heaven. Always send the exact text in its native script and have a fluent reader check the proof — see multilingual inscriptions.

Prayers and gatherings

Families often hold a novena (pasiyam) of prayers after death and gather again on the 40th day and first anniversary. Undas (1–2 November) brings families to the cemetery to clean graves, light candles and share food. See All Souls' traditions.

Design tips

Portraits are popular. Wide bases and vases help on visit days. Large families may prefer a companion or family stone.

Planning for large family gatherings

Undas often brings many relatives at once. Design choices that help:

• A wide base for candles and flowers.
• Two vases for fresh flowers.
• Polished granite that cleans easily after candles.

Ask the cemetery about candle and gathering rules before 1 November.

Key Takeaways

• Catholic symbols are most common.
• "Sumalangit nawa" is a familiar phrase.
• Families gather at Undas.
• Portraits are popular.

Next Step

See Winnipeg or request a quote.