Easter Sunday in the Philippines is a festive Catholic celebration in the Philippines. It is the time when the sober atmosphere of the Holy Week, immediately preceding Easter Sunday, is lifted and replaced by joyous activities. In certain areas outside of Metro Manila, Easter Sunday is observed with religious rituals, special church services and family gatherings.
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When is Easter Sunday in the Philippines in 2015?
Easter Sunday in the Philippines is on April 5, 2015, a Sunday.
Easter Sunday in the Philippines is always observed on the first Sunday after Holy Week each year.
Origin and Purpose of the Easter Sunday in the Philippines:
The observance of Easter Sunday is part of the Spanish influence on Philippine tradition and culture since the 16th century. With their coming to the Philippines, they brought with them Catholic friars who helped in their colonizing the country. For almost 500 years, the Filipinos had celebrated Easter Sunday to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. In the Philippines, this religious holiday is called “Pasko ng Pagkabuhay.”
Celebration of the Easter Sunday in the Philippines:
The celebration of the Easter Sunday starts as early as two o’clock in the morning. At this time, all Catholic parishes all over the country prepare to re-enact the “Salubong.” This is usually held in the plaza or an open area near the church. This sort of stage play is characterized by grade school female children dressed as angels singing hymns. As they sing, an angel slowly descends from above to awake the dead Jesus.
After a few hours of this presentation, the special church services begin in all churches and cathedrals in the Philippines. A church service usually takes an hour and is always immediately followed by another church service until 12 noon. The church service or mass is usually sponsored each hour by religious and civic groups within the locality. Lunch is always a family gathering in all Filipino homes.
When is Easter Sunday in the Philippines on 2016?
Easter Sunday in the Philippines is on March 27, 2016, a Sunday.