Pamanhikan, a Filipino pre-wedding ritual

There are many cultural traditions, which last in time. Today we are travelling from the luxury hotel in Spain Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa to the Philippines to know more about one of its most ancient traditions: the pamanhikan.

Ancient Filipino people believed that losing their cultural traditions meant turning their backs on their Filipino legacy. This is why Filipino parents transmit their children their cultural legends so that they keep in touch with their roots.

When a Filipino man and woman decide to get married, the groom and his parents must arrange a pamanhikan, a formal way of asking the parents of the bride for her hand. The meeting usually takes place at the woman´s house, but the proposing family is the one in charge of preparing and bringing the food.

During the pamanhikan both parties meet for the fist time. For Filipino people, marriage is the union of two families, not just of the couple. The groom´s family must handle the financial responsibilities. Bride´s parents ask for a dowry, which must be given before the wedding. This dowry can either be money or a service. Once the date of the wedding and the dowry are set, the couple is considered officially engaged.

Filipino population are very superstitious. The bride must no try on her wedding dress before the nuptials, or the wedding won´t be held. Besides, if a family member has to leave during the banquet, all those who haven´t finish eating must turn their plates clockwise three times to guarantee a safe trip to the person that leaves.

If you would like to experience the Asian magic without leaving Spain, come see us at the 5 resort in Spain Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa.