By David Vera
On October 31, families arrived at Palo Catholic Cemetery to honor their deceased loved ones ahead of All Souls’ Day. This annual tradition, known as Undas in the Philippines, involves cleaning graves, placing flowers, and lighting candles to remember the deceased.
Undas is an important cultural practice, reflecting the Filipino value of honoring ancestors. Families gather not only to pay respects but to strengthen family bonds. The Palo Catholic Cemetery becomes a place of remembrance and community during this time, with candles and flowers symbolizing respect and a continuing connection with those who have passed.
The tradition holds added significance as Tacloban and nearby areas continue to recover from past natural disasters, including Typhoon Haiyan in 2013. Undas underscores resilience and respect for cultural heritage, as families honor the past while acknowledging present-day challenges.