Ilonggo cultural and historical traditions observed for generations were not spared from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Before the pandemic, Ilonggos had their own way of observing the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day while spending time with their family and departed loved ones.
BEFORE
When mass gatherings were still allowed before the pandemic, two towns in Iloilo organized festivals inspired by the Piyesta Minatay, according to Gilbert Marin provincial government assistant department head of Provincial Culture, Arts, History, and Tourism Office.
The town of Pavia, Iloilo takes pride in its very own “Tigkaralag Festival” celebrated every All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
Unlike any other festival, the Tigkaralag Festival showcases Halloween characters and supernatural beings coupled with their frightening costumes in an unforgettable nerve-racking dance-drama presentation. Unfortunately, the festival has resorted to virtual presentations since last year due to the pandemic.
In Dumangas, Iloilo, Marin said residents have a unique way of observing Piyesta Minatay thru “Ligum-Dulom” where residents gather at the plaza and dance while the lights are turned off.
Aside from the unique festivals, “cemetery-hopping” for tourists and visitors has also been a trend during pre-pandemic times, according to Marin.
Iloilo province is home to many old and historical cemeteries that have been preserved by the localities.
San Joaquin’s Campo Santo, with its historical chapel made of bricks and coral stone, is one of the cultural treasures of the province. It is just located along the highway and overlooking the sea of San Joaquin.
Meanwhile, Janiuay cemetery is uniquely situated on a hill. The cemetery constructed way back in 1885 welcomes visitors in a grand staircase which they need to walk on before reaching the tombs.
Other historical and well-preserved cemeteries that are a vision to see include the Cabatuan Cemetery, Pototan Cemetery, Oton Cemetery, Dingle Cemetery, and Dueñas cemetery, according to Marin.
Furthermore, Ilonggos’ observance of Tigkalalag centers on family bonds. Hence, before the pandemic, Ilonggos spent their time visiting their departed loved ones in the cemeteries.
Marin said that most families would bring food and hold picnics inside cemeteries. Others bring sentimental gifts and spend time in the cemeteries.
DURING
However, these were no longer practiced as the COVID-19 pandemic forced authorities to close cemeteries and prohibit mass gatherings during All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
The national inter-agency task force (NIATF) has ordered the closure of all private and public cemeteries all over the country. The mandate was cascaded in both the city and province of Iloilo through the issuances of executive orders implementing the closure from Oct 29 to Nov 2.
As a result, families visited cemeteries ahead of the closure while subjecting themselves to protocols imposed by their localities.
Eating inside the cemeteries and bringing alcoholic drinks were also prohibited.
Marin said Ilonggo families are left with no choice but to comply with the health protocols and temporarily do away from the usual traditions that they practice during “Piyesta Minatay”.
Instead of visiting cemeteries, Ilonggos will spend Tigkalalag in their homes with immediate family members.
Others may opt to visit other destinations like resorts and beaches but they will still be subjected to health protocols.
“Still we can see gihapon is ang love and closeness of Ilonggo families despite the changing times. Makita amo gid ini ang ginareflect sang aton traditions before and even now na may pandemic,” Marin said.
Although the province and the city are both slowly easing the restrictions, Marin still reminded the public to not be complacent especially that most families will most likely be tempted to go out this coming All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
“Kinahanglan observe gihapon sang protocols, wear facemask, practice social distancing and wash hands. Let us be careful, ang tendency sang tanan galagaw but let us observe Piyesta Minatay by remembering our departed loved ones. We can offer prayers and light candles in the comforts of our own homes,” he said. (ERS)
