Traditional beliefs dictate that if ever one enters a cemetery, upon going out, he should do the palina, a short ritual done by passing over smoke. This is to keep the spirits from following you to the house. These boys are an enterprising lot. For the effort of preparing the pampalina, they are asking for a peso, voluntarily.
Photos taken at Calamba cemetery.
And who can count out the ever present vendors?
Was at Calamba (day) cemetery for photo ops. Already, people were streaming in, just like in most cemeteries in the country, to honor the dead. Its still chaotic, with some people still cleaning their kins’ grave, some cutting grass, some doing electrical wirings to light when night came while others were already lighting candles and chanting prayers.
1900H together with my younger brother and cousins, we went to the Talisay cemetery where our departed kin are buried. Entering, you are greeted with the beautiful sight of hundreds and hundreds of candles lighted atop graves. People chatting, laughing, eating, playing cards, praying, singing.
Calamba cemetery
Talisay cemetery
With October coming to a close, Catholic Philippines is in a state of exodus, within the country of course. Honoring the departed beloved is a long cherished tradition that witness the mass migration of people from the cities and other areas to one’s home province. Bus and jeep terminals, piers and airports are in a chaotic mood, clogged, as people from all walks of life, rush to these departure areas with bags, luggages and belongings in tow.
Jeep terminal, Gingoog City
Bus terminal, Agora, Cagayan de Oro City
Pier, Cagayan de Oro City (taken with my SE K700i mobile phone’s camera)
SUBSCRIBE