5 Unique Wedding Traditions In The Philippines: Pamamanhikan, Money Dance, And More

Here are unique Filipino wedding traditions that couples and their families continue to follow until today.

If you like it then you should put a ring on it, right? Not for Filipinos!

In the Philippines where beliefs and traditions are diverse, a lot of couples and their loved ones follow traditions bigger than just wearing rings and saying "I do". Listed in this article are old-fashioned practices that many modern brides and grooms still adhere to.

1. Pamamanhikan

Above Photo: The Pinoy Warrior Blog

Photo: The Pinoy Warrior Blog

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Pamamanhikan or the process of courting each other's family is the most popular and heart-warming tradition that every bride and groom follow. The custom is a gathering hosted by the bride's family and attended by the groom's family. This practice symbolises honour and respect to the parents of both parties.

2. Money Dance

Above Photo: Wedding Window

Photo: Wedding Window

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Do not be surprised if the family of the newlyweds come up and stick money on their clothes as they dance. The money dance or the Sabitan ng Pera, signifies the financial abundance of the couple in the years to come. For wedding guests, this is a fun and momentous process of well-wishing.

3. Arrhae or Coin Ceremony

Above Photo: Michael Longmire on Unsplash

Photo: Michael Longmire on Unsplash

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The Arrhae or coin ceremony originated from Spanish-Catholic culture. The custom involves the bride accepting a small basket of coins (either gold or silver) from the groom. Typically, the basket contains 13 coins to represent Christ and his apostles. Many Filipinos believe that this practice represents a promise of prosperity in the couple’s marriage, as well as a promise to always protect each other’s wealth.

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4. Wedding Cord

Above Photo: Brides PH

Photo: Brides PH

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Most Filipino weddings are not complete without the cord or rope that binds the bride and groom. Often tied on the wrists or waists of the couple, "lassoing" signifies the unification of the couple for their entire lives.

5. Throwing Of Rice Grains

Above Photo: Pierre Bamin on Unsplash

Photo: Pierre Bamin on Unsplash

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The throwing of rice grains is believed to be a way of wishing the newlyweds a prosperous partnership. Many people believe that this custom also represents fertility so the couple could bear many children in the future.

Topics

Weddings Culture Traditions PH

Jove Moya

Senior Feature Writer, Tatler Philippines

Jove holds a degree in Journalism and is currently pursuing graduate studies in Philosophy at the University of the Philippines–Diliman. She has flair for in-depth, interview-driven stories that explore politics and culture, shaped by her background in national broadsheets.

When she’s not on assignment, Jove spends her days painting, sipping lemonade, and walking her dog, Jupiter. She can often be seen in Escolta with a film camera in hand, browsing novelty shops in search of rare memorabilia. For leads, reach her at Jove@tatlerphilippines.com.