Professional Documents
Culture Documents
A Thesis
Presented To
The Faculty of the Senior High School
Biñan Integrated National High School
Sto. Domingo, City of Biñan, Laguna
In Partial Fulfillment
Of the Requirements for the Subject
Practical Research 1
By
May 2024
This chapter reviews the related literature, which supports and gives credence to the
details of this research. The researchers anchored this comprehensive study to different
findings, theories, and notions from scholarly research and articles related to the participants’
background of the study and to justify the researchers' objective in undertaking it. This also
Lapatha et al. (2019) stated that families residing in cemeteries represent a unique and
often marginalized demographic, facing a mass of challenges and complexities in their living
environment. Despite the unconventional setting, these families form close communities
often develop strong social bonds and support networks within their communities, relying on
one another for emotional and practical assistance. These close relationships contribute to a
sense of belonging and solidarity among residents, fostering a collective spirit of mutual aid
poverty, which can exacerbate the challenges faced by these families. Sodiya et al. (2021)
highlighted the prevalence of poverty among cemetery residents, with limited access to basic
amenities and healthcare services. This socio-economic vulnerability can perpetuate cycles of
creative solutions to meet their needs and wants, from community gardening initiatives to
advocacy for improved living conditions. By leveraging the strengths and forging bonds of
solidarity within the communities of families residing in the cemetery (Ghazali, 2021).
Living in a cemetery may seem unconventional, yet it offers unique advantages that cater
environments often provide a peaceful and serene atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle
of urban life. The peaceful surroundings of cemeteries can offer a sense of solace and
contemplation, fostering mental well-being and relaxation for residents. Furthermore, the green
spaces within cemeteries may serve as recreational areas for residents, offering opportunities
The availability of vacant and underutilized spaces within cemeteries can provide an
alternative housing solution for marginalized populations. And the potential for repurposing
cemetery spaces for low-cost housing initiatives, addressing housing shortages and
homelessness in urban areas. For some families, the affordability of cemetery residences may
alleviate financial burdens and provide a pathway to stability and self-sufficiency (Dai et al.,
2022).
Lapatha et al. (2019) explained that families residing in the cemetery often develop strong
social bonds within their communities, relying on one another for emotional and practical
assistance. This sense of belonging can contribute to a heightened sense of security and stability
for residents, particularly in the face of adversity or challenges. Contrary to popular perception,
cemetery environments can foster communities characterized by mutual support and solidarity.
landmarks, enriching residents' experiences and sense of heritage. Cemeteries often contain
residents to connect with their cultural roots and traditions (Lapatha et al., 2019).
These advantages demonstrate that while residing in the cemetery may pose unique
challenges, it also offers opportunities for tranquility, community support, affordable housing,
including emotional stress due to the frequent reminder of mortality, limited access to facilities
and services, and social stigma leading to social isolation. Cemeteries often lack essential
infrastructure for day-to-day life and may not align with societal conventions, causing conflict
and unease. Overall, the drawbacks such as psychological distress, practical difficulties, and
societal issues may outweigh any potential advantages of such living arrangements.
It can be challenging for the cemetery residents to have adequate room for their
equipment and personal items because of the limited area. To save money for expenses like
rent, utilities (such as electricity and water), and other necessities, many of them depend on a
steady source of income. Insufficient money can lead to worry and anxiety about one's means
of subsistence. Depending on where they reside, cemetery occupants may also have to deal
with environmental issues, including exposure to extreme weather, poor sanitary facilities, or
trouble getting clean water. These elements may have an effect on their living and health
circumstances. Although the support of the community may be beneficial, disputes or conflicts
may also occur within the cemetery community. Resolving conflicts and maintaining
interpersonal relationships can be difficult tasks for residents in this particular setting (Algura,
2019).
difficulties in accessing clean water and essential medical services, limited opportunities for
from the lack of basic amenities and opportunities available to other citizens. Improving the
well-being of cemetery residents requires addressing their needs for livelihood, water,
Lastly, Lapatha et al. (2019) concluded that residing in the cemetery presents numerous
challenges and disadvantages for families. These include emotional stress from reminders of
mortality, limited access to essential services, social stigma leading to isolation, financial stress
due to insufficient income, environmental hazards, and conflicts within the community. These
obstacles can significantly impact residents' well-being and quality of life, making it difficult
Algura (2019) provided valuable insights into the resilience of families living among the
dead, highlighting how despite the pervasive presence of poverty and adversity within cemetery
communities, families draw strength from their bonds and support networks. These familial
relationships serve as pillars of support, offering children a sense of stability and belonging
emphasizing the survival-focused nature of life in cemeteries, where families prioritize meeting
basic needs over pursuing a fulfilling life. This survival-centric approach underscores the harsh
realities faced by children in cemetery communities, where access to essential resources and
significantly impact their well-being. As highlighted by Munthali (2023), despite the presence
of family support, the pervasive impact of poverty remains a constant struggle for these
children. The lack of access to clean water, adequate housing, and educational opportunities
Moreover, the stigma associated with residing in cemeteries can exacerbate social
isolation and discrimination, negatively affecting children's mental and emotional health. The
constant exposure to the reminders of mortality within cemetery environments may also
contribute to heightened levels of stress and anxiety among children, further exacerbating their
While family bonds offer a source of resilience, the pervasive challenges of poverty
challenges remains essential for developing effective interventions and support systems to
improve the well-being of children residing in cemetery environments (Lapatha et al., 2019).
housing and community dynamics. Lapatha et al. (2019) asserted the positive aspects of such
arrangements, noting residents' sense of satisfaction and security within cemetery grounds.
and physical assurance. Moreover, the study highlights the social well-being experienced by
residents, who feel protected and have a sense of belonging within the cemetery community.
However, the sense of community may be limited to close relatives, with some residents
choosing to isolate themselves from the broader neighborhood due to toxic interactions with
neighbors.
live in cemeteries. Many Filipino migrants move from rural areas to urban centers in search of
individuals often end up in slum communities within the city, where makeshift shelters are
constructed over tombs or inside mausoleums. This highlights the dire circumstances that push
families towards unconventional living arrangements within cemetery grounds, which is also
because of poverty.
In many Asian countries, poverty-stricken individuals and families are forced to reside
in cemeteries due to their inability to afford traditional housing options. This underscores the
broader issue of housing affordability and the challenges faced by marginalized communities
in accessing adequate living spaces. Moreover, the impending development plans to convert
cemeteries into housing developments raise concerns among families of the deceased regarding
the relocation of bodies and the timeframe for such processes (Overstreet, 2020).
Lapatha et al. (2019) collectively shed light on the complex types of living arrangements of
families residing in the cemeteries. From the sense of security and social cohesion experienced
by residents to the socioeconomic factors driving such arrangements, it is evident that cemetery
living reflects broader issues of housing insecurity and marginalization. As development plans
threaten to transform cemetery spaces, questions arise regarding the future of these
multifaceted interplay of loss, remembrance, and the perpetuation of family bonds. Cemeteries
serve as repositories of ancestral history, offering a tangible link to the past through headstone
inscriptions, dates, and names. Cemeteries offer a wealth of information about our ancestors
and serve as a physical link to the past. Stronger familial ties can result from this knowledge
of family history, which can foster a sense of continuity and connectedness. The communal
aspect of cemeteries is another important element that strengthens family bonds. Grieving
collectively in a shared space can provide comfort during times of loss, and it can also foster a
deeper understanding and empathy among family members. Residing beyond the grave can be
a shared ritual that brings family members together, facilitating mutual support and the
maintenance of family bonds. The cemetery transforms into a tangible place where the ties of
kinship are felt as families join together to grieve the loss of departed loved ones. In this place,
the gravity of loss blends with cherished memories to create a sense of community and legacy.
Graveyards are moving settings for the expression of familial love and unity among
generations, from the solemn rites of burial to the silent periods of contemplation at gravesites.
Families strengthen their ties by attending to and maintaining the final resting sites of their
ancestors, maintaining a sense of continuity and connection that crosses the line between life
and death.
Living near a cemetery can provide a unique connection to history and culture, as these
sites often hold stories and memories of the past. For some individuals, the proximity to a
cemetery can foster a sense of continuity with the past and a profound appreciation for the lives
that came before. The tranquil and contemplative atmosphere near a cemetery can offer solace
and a reminder of the impermanence of life, leading to a greater appreciation of the present
moment. Additionally, living near a cemetery can serve as a daily reminder of the
interconnectedness of humanity and the enduring impact individuals can have on future
coping mechanisms to navigate the unique challenges associated with their living conditions.
One common coping mechanism involves leveraging communal resources within the cemetery
community. Families come together to share necessities such as food, water, and shelter,
pooling their resources to meet basic needs collectively. This sense of solidarity fosters a
supportive environment where individuals can lean on one another for emotional and practical
support.
Dai et al. (2022) also concluded that social connections within the cemetery community
serve as a vital source of support for families, buffering against the psychological impact of
their living conditions. And through mutual aid and companionship, families residing in the
cemetery find comfort and strength in their relationships with fellow community members,
coping mechanism among families residing in cemeteries. Innovative solutions are adopted by
cemetery residents to address practical challenges such as shelter, sanitation, and livelihood.
Families repurpose the available materials or improvise makeshift structures to create livable
spaces within the cemetery environment. By tapping into their resourcefulness and ingenuity,
cemetery residents adapt to their surroundings and find ways to improve their living conditions
Families Living in Cemeteries in Cebu City," of Lapatha et al. (2019) explores the concept of
emotion-focused coping style which emphasized the psychological impact of cemetery living
and concluded coping strategies employed by families to maintain their mental well-being.
Strategies include seeking solace in spiritual and cultural practices, finding moments of
tranquility amidst the peaceful surroundings of the cemetery, or engaging in activities that
provide a sense of purpose and meaning in life. While cemetery living presents numerous
challenges, the resilience and coping mechanisms exhibited by families in these environments
In the study titled "A Qualitative Study on the Social Well-being of Filipino Families
Living in Cemeteries in Cebu City," Lapatha et al. (2019) delve into the survival strategies and
ways of living of families residing in cemeteries. Some residents take on caretaker roles to
supplement their income, while others engage in small-scale entrepreneurial activities such as
selling candles, flowers, and operating small stores to cater to visitors. Additionally, during
funerals, there is a work opportunity, with some individuals collecting bones from tombs and
Cemeteries are often regarded as left-behind landscapes: scary and lifeless, abandoned
and forgotten. Despite this derelict image, residents residing in the cemetery are living and
and nourishing the family. As outsiders, often hear about ghosts and horror stories and consider
cemeteries to be haunted, but these events and stories are uncommon to the residents, as they
have already established a relationship with the place and those around it. For them, the
cemetery is not merely a place, but a place they call home (Algura, 2019).
below the poverty line, compelling them to seek shelter within the cemetery grounds due to
financial constraints. Makeshift houses are erected within mausoleums once designated for the
deceased, creating a sense of community and camaraderie among the residents. Despite their
challenging circumstances, residents value the strong friendships and support networks that
Moxhay (2019) stated that others were living in the cemetery beside the deceased. On its
grounds, some of the poorest people in Manila have lived and worked for many years—in some
caretakers, but many more are just "illegal" dwellers trying to get away from the many risks of
living on Manila's congested and hazardous city streets. Some children there make a living by
collecting melted wax from the candles and selling it to the recycling center to make money.”.
Prevention of Poverty
Education has the potential to end poverty cycles by increasing accessibility, developing
curriculum, and training teachers. Investments in education, such as increased accessibility and
Enhancing governance has the potential to address poverty even in difficult settings, such
as communities where people live next to cemeteries. The local community can benefit from
resource distribution, and transparent policy promotion. When education programmers are
expanded into these regions, they help break the cycle of poverty by providing chances and
skills that enable economic empowerment even in unusual settings (Barke, 2023).
According to the Japan External Trade Organization (2019), offering jobs similar to those
of public corporations is the answer. Should the government offer jobs so that poor people have
the ability to learn how to work and make money. Also, in the event that they are unable to find
employment with public companies indefinitely, they will gain positive experience in the
future. Furthermore, they will spend money on education, and their kids might attend school.
Like public enterprises, giving jobs to the underprivileged can empower people, even
those in difficult situations like those living in cemeteries. By providing work, you provide
them the opportunity to improve their financial status while also gaining essential skills and
experience. This strategy encourages people to invest in education, which may improve their
Pathak and Ross (2021) said that in order to rebuild the economy fairly, well-paying jobs
in important industries must be created, and major worker safeguards must be in place to lessen
housing initiatives like Housing First and the National Homes Guarantee in order to give those
who are homeless or residing in transitional housing a way to get and keep long-term, secure
homes.
The financial burden on working families, especially those who live in cemeteries, can
Supporting programs like Accommodation First and the National Homes Guarantee will help
us solve larger social issues by giving those who are homeless or living in transitional
accommodation the chance to find long-term, stable housing (Pathak & Ross, 2021).
to consider the broader context of how cemeteries interact with urban environments and
residential areas (Lapatha et al., 2019). One aspect to consider is the impact of cemetery
proximity on property values, as examined in the study from the Ethiopian Journal of
Environmental Studies & Management (2021), it indicates that the presence of cemeteries may
lifestyle of cemetery residents and may hold neutral or indifferent perceptions toward them.
They may be interested in learning more about their experiences and living conditions without
Furthermore, Lapatha et al. (2019) delve into the potential conflicts between cemeteries
and adjacent residential land uses. Their findings suggest that factors such as age, proximity to
the cemetery, and occupation can influence negative perceptions towards cemetery locations.
In some cases, residents may harbor fear or mistrust towards cemetery residents, fueled by
stereotypes or misconceptions about their behavior or lifestyle. This fear could stem from
cultural beliefs or superstitions surrounding death and burial grounds. These dynamics provides
insights into how residents within the neighborhood may perceive and interact with individuals
Additionally, Nordh et al. (2023) discussed the evolving role of urban cemeteries as
cemeteries adds nuance to the understanding of how communities view and engage with
cemetery spaces. Moreover, neighborhoods may view cemetery residents with sympathy and
empathy, recognizing the challenges they face in their living environment. These individuals
may offer support and assistance to cemetery residents, fostering a sense of community
solidarity.
cemetery residents by highlighting the varied ways in which these spaces are utilized and
perceived.
economic, and security factors. While some may perceive living in such a setting as
and adaptability in the face of challenges. The presence of a cemetery can indeed pose security
threats, including the potential for criminal activity such as robbery and harassment
(International Journal of Scientific Research Publication, 2021). The serene nature of some
cemetery sites may attract hoodlums, who take advantage of the solitude to commit nefarious
resilience and adaptability in navigating their daily lives. Many families residing in these
(Lapatha et al., 2019). While some may find solace and security within cemetery grounds,
others face challenges in seeking a sense of belonging within the wider community, often due
to perceptions of toxic or selfish neighbors. However, familial bonds within the cemetery
According to Amadi et al. (2021), for some residents, the cemetery environment
provides a safer alternative to living on the streets, particularly in the face of natural calamities.
environmental disasters, families find stability and security within the cemetery's confines. The
sense of belonging and community extends primarily to close relatives and those who share a
common bond within the cemetery setting, fostering a sense of solidarity and mutual support
among residents.
factors, including safety, social well-being, and economic stability. While challenges such as
security threats and social isolation persist, families demonstrate resilience and adaptability in
navigating their lives within the cemetery environment. By fostering a sense of community
and offering a semblance of security, cemeteries serve as unique living spaces that present
both opportunities and challenges for their residents (International Journal of Scientific
marginalized yet resilient in their community formations. Lapatha et al. (2019) noted the
exacerbate their living conditions. Despite these adversities, cemetery residents forge strong
social bonds, relying on one another for support and solidarity (Smith et al., 2021). However,
stigma and discrimination from broader society compound their challenges, perpetuating
conducive to mental well-being and recreational opportunities (Lorge, 2023). Additionally, the
affordability of cemetery residences may alleviate financial burdens for some families (Dai et
al., 2022). Cemetery environments also foster a sense of community and belonging, providing
Yet, residing in a cemetery poses significant challenges, especially for children, including
limited access to essential services and opportunities, persistent poverty, and environmental
hazards (Munthali, 2023). Moreover, psychological distress from reminders of mortality, social
stigma, and conflicts within the community impact residents' well-being (Borromeo et al.,
2020). Despite these challenges, families develop coping mechanisms, relying on communal
economic, and security factors. While families may find solace and stability within cemetery
grounds, they also face security threats and social isolation (Amadi et al., 2021). Nonetheless,
challenges persist, opportunities for communal support and unique living experiences emerge
2021).
The researchers decided to conduct qualitative research about the families residing in
the cemetery. There are some studies associated with this, but those are focused on different
participants, locations of the participants, and objectives. The researchers took an in-depth
examination about the lived experiences of families residing in the Sto. Filomena Chapel, San
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