By the Surrey Filipino Canadian Society of BC
Honoring Our Loved Ones, Preserving Our Heritage
Every year on November 1 and 2, Filipinos come together to honor their departed loved ones in what’s known as Undas — All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. It’s one of the most heartfelt traditions in the Philippines, filled with faith, remembrance, and age-old pamahiin (superstitions) passed down from generation to generation.
Even for Filipino families living in Canada, the spirit of Undas remains alive — through candles, prayers, and shared stories that remind us of home.
The Meaning of Undas
Undas is more than a time to visit cemeteries. It’s a celebration of memory and connection — a way for families to show love and respect for those who have passed on.
Filipinos believe that during these days, the souls of the departed visit their loved ones, so families prepare by cleaning graves, offering flowers, lighting candles, and praying together.
Common Pamahiin (Superstitions) During Undas
Here are some of the most well-known Filipino pamahiin related to Undas — each carrying lessons about respect, faith, and family:
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Huwag magwalis sa bahay habang Undas.
– It’s believed that sweeping the floor might “sweep away” the visiting souls of the dead. -
Maghanda ng pagkain para sa kaluluwa.
– Some families leave food offerings on the table or altar at night, believing that their departed loved ones visit to share the meal. -
Huwag umalis agad pagkalibing.
– After a burial, people usually don’t go home directly to avoid bringing spirits back with them; they might stop by another place first (pagpag). -
Bawal ang ingay at tawanan sa sementeryo.
– Out of respect for the dead, people are reminded to behave solemnly while visiting graves. -
Huwag magsuot ng matingkad na kulay.
– Traditionally, people wear black or white during Undas as a sign of mourning and respect. -
Pag may kandila na namatay, may kaluluwang bumisita.
– When a candle suddenly flickers or dies, it’s said that a soul has passed by to say hello.
How Filipinos in Canada Keep the Tradition Alive
Even far from home, many Filipino-Canadian families continue to observe Undas in their own way:
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Lighting candles and saying prayers for loved ones who’ve passed.
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Visiting cemeteries or memorial parks to bring flowers.
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Holding small family gatherings where stories about Lola or Lolo are lovingly shared.
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Offering kakanin like bibingka, kutsinta, or deremen, which hold symbolic ties to remembrance and tradition.
Through these acts, Undas becomes more than ritual—it becomes a way to teach the next generation of Filipino-Canadians about respect, love, and remembrance.
Keeping the Faith and Family Spirit
Undas reminds us that love doesn’t end with death—it continues through memories and traditions. Whether in Pangasinan, Manila, or right here in Surrey, BC, Filipinos light candles not just to remember the dead, but to celebrate life, faith, and family ties that never fade.
As we gather each year to pray, reflect, and honor, may we keep these pamahiin not as fear—but as a reminder of how deeply we value family, respect, and connection.
🇨🇦 Surrey Filipino Canadian Society of BC
Keeping the Filipino spirit alive—wherever we are.
Join us in preserving our culture, celebrating our faith, and strengthening our Filipino-Canadian community.
📍 Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
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