Republic of the Philippines

PALOMPON INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Palompon, Leyte

COLLEGE OF GRADUATE STUDIES

HE 06

Home Economics Management

DETAILED REPORT

Name: Frelyn Mae D. Casinay

Course: MAED-HE
Curriculum Year: Summer 2023
Professor: Carol O. Laurente

TITLE

Family Involvement and Personal Preparations for Marriage:

Pamamanhikan, Ninong and Ninang, Secondary Sponsors, and the Retinue

INTRODUCTION:

Marriage is a significant milestone in many cultures, including in the Philippines,

where it is celebrated with various traditions and customs. In this detailed report, we
explore the family involvement and personal preparations in Filipino marriage customs,
focusing on key elements such as Pamamanhikan, Ninong and Ninang, Secondary
Sponsors, and other members of the retinue.

OBJECTIVE:
The objective of exploring Family Involvement and Personal Preparations for Marriage in
Filipino traditions, including Pamamanhikan, Ninong and Ninang, Secondary Sponsors,
and the Retinue, is to understand and appreciate the cultural significance and roles
played by family members and close friends in the pre-wedding preparations and
wedding ceremony. By examining these customs, the objective is to gain insights into
the values of respect, unity, support, and lifelong commitment fostered through these
traditions and their impact on the couple's married life. Additionally, this exploration aims
to highlight the importance of these customs in preserving cultural heritage and
promoting meaningful connections within the Filipino community.
I. Pamamanhikan:
Pamamanhikan is a traditional Filipino custom where the groom's family formally visits
the bride's family to request her hand in marriage. This meeting is an essential step in
the pre-wedding preparations as it allows both families to get to know each other better
and establish a harmonious relationship.
Purpose: The primary purpose of Pamamanhikan is to seek the blessing and approval
of the bride's parents for the marriage. It is also an opportunity for both families to
discuss wedding arrangements, financial matters, and other practicalities.
Symbolism: The act of Pamamanhikan signifies respect, unity, and the joining of two
families. It fosters open communication and a sense of belonging among the soon-to-be-
wed couple and their families.
Preparation: Prior to Pamamanhikan, both families coordinate the meeting, and the
groom's family often brings gifts or tokens of goodwill to present to the bride's family as a
gesture of respect and appreciation.
II. Ninong and Ninang:
Ninong and Ninang, commonly known as godparents, hold a special role in Filipino
culture, not only during baptisms but also during weddings. They are chosen by the
couple to serve as advisors, mentors, and spiritual guides throughout their married life.
Selection: The process of selecting Ninong and Ninang is a deeply thoughtful one. The
couple considers close relatives, friends, or respected community members who
embody values they admire and wish to emulate in their marriage.
Responsibilities: During the wedding ceremony, Ninong and Ninang offer words of
wisdom and blessings to the couple. Throughout their marriage, they provide support,
guidance, and prayers for the couple's well-being and success.
III. Secondary Sponsors:
Secondary sponsors play important roles in the wedding ceremony, often participating in
various rituals and symbolic gestures. Their involvement contributes to the overall
significance and richness of the celebration.
Veil Sponsors: They place a white veil over the couple's shoulders, symbolizing unity
and protection in their married life.
Cord Sponsors: They place a wedding cord, usually made of silk or flowers, in a figure-
eight shape around the couple's shoulders, symbolizing their bond and everlasting unity.
Candle Sponsors: They light a pair of candles, which the couple then uses to light a
single unity candle. This ritual represents the merging of their lives and families.
IV. Other Members of the Retinue:
Beyond the core family members and sponsors, the wedding retinue includes close
friends and relatives who serve various roles in the wedding celebration.
Maid of Honor and Best Man: These are the bride and groom's closest confidantes,
responsible for supporting them emotionally and assisting with the wedding
preparations.
Bridesmaids and Groomsmen: They participate in the wedding procession and
provide additional support to the couple throughout the ceremony.
Flower Girls and Ring Bearers: Young family members or friends often take on these
roles, adding charm and sweetness to the wedding procession.
Conclusion:
Family involvement and personal preparations in Filipino marriage customs, such as
Pamamanhikan, choosing Ninong and Ninang, selecting Secondary Sponsors, and
including other members of the retinue, are integral to the richness and significance of
the wedding celebration. These customs emphasize the values of unity, respect,
support, and lifelong commitment, creating a strong foundation for the couple's married
life.
References:
https://factsanddetails.com/southeast-asia/Philippines/sub5_6c/entry-3871.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marriage_and_wedding_customs_in_the_Philippines
https://brideandbreakfast.ph/2022/12/16/choosing-principal-sponsors/