Superstitions Surrounding Wake and Interment in a Philippine Urban Center

Abstract

Urbanization of a certain place does not guarantee a consequent cessation of superstitious
beliefs among residents. This is exemplified by Tacloban City, in the Philippines, which became
a highly-urbanized city just a decade ago. In confirmation that, despite such new status,
superstitions prevailed in this place, this study sought to retrieve these beliefs using an
ethnographic research design. Findings revealed that up to now, superstitions related to one’s
wake and interment are still observed, thus contributing to indigenous culture not just in this
particular region, but the country in general. Historians, researchers, educators, and literary
artists may find these a vast resource for documentation and pedagogical ends.