Marriage in the Philippines is more than just a union between two individuals; it’s a celebration steeped in tradition, religion, and family values. If you’re planning to tie the knot in the Philippines or simply want to learn about the process, here’s a guide to understanding the rich customs and requirements of a Filipino wedding.
1. Pre-Wedding Traditions
Pamamanhikan
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Pamamanhikan is a cherished Filipino tradition where the groom’s family formally visits the bride’s family to ask for her hand in marriage.
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During this meeting, both families discuss wedding arrangements, finances, and the guest list. It’s also an opportunity for the families to build a strong relationship.
Engagement
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The engagement often involves the exchange of rings, symbolizing the couple’s commitment.
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Gifts may also be given by the groom’s family to show respect and goodwill.
2. Preparing for the Wedding
Legal Requirements
To ensure a legal marriage in the Philippines, couples need to secure the following documents:
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Marriage License: Apply at the local civil registrar in either the bride’s or groom’s municipality.
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Birth Certificates: Both parties must present authenticated birth certificates from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
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Certificate of No Marriage Record (CENOMAR): This proves that both individuals are legally free to marry.
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Pre-Marriage Counseling Certificate: Couples must attend a seminar on family planning and marital responsibilities, usually hosted by the local government or church.
Note: If either party is under 25, parental consent or advice may be required.
Religious Preparations
For many Filipinos, a church wedding is the preferred ceremony. Religious preparations may include:
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Baptismal and confirmation certificates for both the bride and groom.
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Attendance at pre-Cana seminars or equivalent marriage preparation programs.
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Publication of banns, which are formal announcements of the wedding during church services.
For other faiths, such as Islam or Protestant Christianity, different requirements and rituals may apply.
3. Wedding Ceremonies
Religious Rites
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Filipino weddings are often celebrated with a religious ceremony, typically in a Catholic church, officiated by a priest.
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Key parts of the ceremony include the exchange of vows and rings, as well as the symbolic use of the veil, cord, and coins (arras) to represent unity, strength, and prosperity.
Filipino Wedding Attire
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The groom often wears a barong Tagalog or barong Coat, the traditional embroidered formal shirt made of lightweight fabric, such as piña or jusi.
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The bride’s attire can range from a classic Filipiniana gown to modern interpretations of traditional designs.
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Both outfits reflect the elegance and cultural pride of the Filipino people.
4. Post-Wedding Traditions
Family and Community Celebrations
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A Filipino wedding reception is a lively and joyous occasion. Expect traditional Filipino dishes, heartfelt speeches, and cultural performances, such as folk dances.
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It’s also common for newlyweds to receive gifts in the form of money, often pinned to their clothing during the money dance as a gesture of support for their new life together.
Pagmamano
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After the wedding, it’s customary for the couple to show respect to their elders by performing the pagmamano, a gesture of bowing and taking an elder’s hand to their forehead.
Celebrating Filipino Heritage with Barong World
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