March 5, 2026
A Guide to Filipino Wedding Traditions Your Guests Need to Know
Filipino weddings are rich with meaningful traditions that date back centuries. Whether your guests are Filipino or not, understanding these customs makes the celebration more special for everyone.
The Entourage
Filipino weddings have one of the most elaborate wedding parties in the world. Beyond the best man and maid of honor, you'll have:
- Principal Sponsors (Ninong & Ninang) — Godparents who serve as legal witnesses and lifelong mentors. They sign the marriage contract.
- Secondary Sponsors — Pairs who participate in unity ceremonies:
- Veil Sponsors — Drape the veil over the couple
- Cord Sponsors — Place the cord in a figure-8 (infinity symbol)
- Candle Sponsors — Light the unity candle
- Coin Bearer — Carries the 13 coins (arras), symbolizing prosperity
- Bible Bearer — Carries the Bible used in the ceremony
The Unity Ceremonies
The Veil (Belo)
A white veil is draped over the couple — over the bride's head and the groom's shoulders — symbolizing being "clothed as one."
The Cord (Yugal)
A cord is draped in a figure-eight (the symbol of infinity) over the couple, symbolizing their everlasting bond.
The Candle
Two individual candles are used to light one unity candle, representing two lives becoming one.
The 13 Coins (Arras)
The groom gives 13 coins to the bride, symbolizing his commitment to provide for the family. The coins represent prosperity and Jesus Christ with his 12 apostles.
The Money Dance
One of the most festive reception traditions. Guests pin money on the couple as they dance — bills are pinned to their clothes or placed in a bag. It's joyful, celebratory, and often the highlight of the reception.
Pagmamano
The couple visits each elder relative and sponsor during the reception, taking their hand and pressing it to their forehead as a sign of respect. This is deeply meaningful in Filipino culture.
The Bouquet and Garter Toss
Similar to Western tradition, but Filipino versions often come with hilarious games — the "shoe game," trivia about the couple, and "Bring Me" challenges.
Having a wedding with guests who aren't familiar with Filipino traditions? Build your Memorie wedding website and include a ceremony guide page that explains each custom.