Wakes and Burial Practices and Traditions of Ilokano Catholics in Santiago, Ilocos Sur, Philippines

Abstract

This study documented the wake and burial traditions and practices of Ilokano Catholics in Santiago, Ilocos Sur. Specifically, this study explored how Ilokano Catholics in Santiago perform these practices and traditions during the wake and burial of their dead relatives. This study used photovoice as its research design. In choosing the participants, the researchers used criterion sampling. Nine (9) participants were identified including elders who lead prayers. In gathering data, researchers asked the participants to show images of their deceased family member during their funeral and let them narrate what is in the images. While the participants were narrating, the participants were interviewed using the aide-mémoire. Then, the recorded interviews were used to verify the gathered data. Based on the statements of the participants, researchers identified six (6) traditions, seven (7) practices, and four (4) beliefs. The practices during the dead are panagbantay (looking after the dead), panakaigangat ti kandela (lighting a candle), panagwaswas ti agasawa (seperation of married couple), panagmano (to bless), panangilayaw diay ubbing (passing the child across the coffin), pabalon (packed things), panagbuggo (hand washing). The traditions on the dead are pa-siyam (conducting a 9-day novena), panag-atong (burning of wood), panaggolgol (bathing), panangipurwak ti bagas (throwing of rice grains), panagpugsat ti krusipiho sadiay rosario (removal of crucifix from the rosary), panagwaksi (a year death anniversary). While the beliefs on dead are categorize based on things that people should and should not do and eat. In the light of the findings, the Ilokano culture of burial and wake are sustained amidst modernization in society. Hence, this culture remains and shall be passed from one generation to the other.