How it unfolds
The Catholic Filipino wedding has three distinctive rites inside the ceremony: the veil pinned over the couple to symbolise being clothed as one; the cord, a figure of eight placed over their shoulders; and the arrhae, thirteen coins handed by groom to bride. Ninong and ninang, the principal sponsors, are chosen for their standing and keep a role in the couple's life afterwards.
A Filipino Catholic wedding has three symbolic acts within the mass: the veil, pinned across the couple's shoulders to signify being clothed as one; the cord, a loop laid over them in a figure of eight; and the arrhae, thirteen coins the groom gives the bride as a pledge of provision. Each is placed by a set of sponsors — the ninong and ninang — who are chosen for standing and who keep a role in the couple's life afterwards.
Key points
| Pamanhikan | Formal visit of the groom's family to ask for the bride's hand |
|---|---|
| Veil | Pinned over the couple during the ceremony |
| Cord | Figure of eight laid over their shoulders |
| Arrhae | Thirteen coins, symbolising provision |
| Ninong and ninang | Principal sponsors, with a lasting role |
| Money dance | Guests pin banknotes to the couple during a dance |
| No divorce | Absence of divorce shapes how marriage is approached |
In practice
- Being asked to be ninong or ninang is an honour with real obligations — and costs.
- The money dance is expected; small notes are the norm.
- There is no divorce: annulment is long and expensive, which changes the stakes.
- The pamanhikan is not optional in most families.
What it costs
A Philippine wedding commonly costs between ₱250,000 and ₱600,000 for a mid-range celebration in Manila, less in the provinces. Sponsors traditionally contribute, which offsets a meaningful share.
Recent changes
Civil registration has been substantially digitised, making licences and certificates easier to obtain; destination weddings within the country have grown strongly.
Who to ask
- Families and elders, for the customary steps.
- Registry office, for the civil marriage.
- Place of worship or celebrant, for the ceremony.
- Local caterers and venues.
Worth knowing before you take part
Customary and religious ceremonies carry enormous social weight, but only the civil registration produces legal effects — inheritance, parentage and recognition abroad all follow from it.
Frequently asked questions
What do principal sponsors do?
They act as witnesses and as lifelong advisers to the couple, and being asked is a genuine honour that carries obligations — often including a contribution to the wedding. Secondary sponsors, usually younger, place the veil, cord and coins during the ceremony.
Is there a civil requirement as well?
A licensed solemnising officer, including a priest, can perform a legally valid marriage, but a marriage licence from the local civil registrar is required first, with a ten-day posting period. Couples who have lived together for at least five years may be exempt from the licence.
Official sources and links
- gov.ph — official government portal