Cost of Saying Goodbye: Funeral in the Philippines
Introduction

Saying goodbye to a loved one is an emotional journey, and in the Philippines, it also entails significant financial considerations. Funeral expenses can range from modest to substantial amounts, depending on the services and arrangements chosen. Being informed about these costs can help families navigate this challenging time with greater ease.
Breakdown of Funeral Expenses
Transfer and Embalming
The process begins with transferring the deceased from the place of death to a funeral home. Basic funeral packages, which often include services like embalming, flowers, and viewing setup, can start at approximately PHP 8,000. However, more comprehensive services may escalate the cost.
Casket or Coffin
The choice between a casket and a coffin significantly impacts the overall expense. Wooden caskets can be as affordable as PHP 3,000, while higher-end options, depending on materials and craftsmanship, can reach up to PHP 100,000.
Wake and Funeral Services
Holding a wake at home is a common practice to minimize costs. Alternatively, funeral homes and memorial chapels offer venues with varying price points:
- Budget Funeral Homes: Services range from PHP 8,000 to PHP 10,000.
- Mid-Range Funeral Homes: Prices span from PHP 15,000 to PHP 250,000.
- High-End Memorial Chapels: Costs can range between PHP 300,000 and PHP 500,000.
Additional Expenses
- Food and Drinks: Providing refreshments during the wake can cost between PHP 5,000 and PHP 25,000, depending on the duration and number of attendees.
- Clothing: Outfitting the deceased in formal attire may add an extra PHP 500 or more, based on preferences.
- Prayer Services: Fees for religious services vary, influenced by the venue and specific rites performed.
Burial vs. Cremation: Weighing the Options
Burial Costs
Traditional burials remain prevalent, with associated costs including:
- Apartment-Type Tombs: Starting at PHP 1,000 in public cemeteries.
- Private Burial Lots: Prices range from PHP 65,000 to PHP 100,000.
- Mausoleums: Construction costs begin at PHP 1 million, with estate lots reaching up to PHP 18 million.
Cremation Costs
Cremation is often viewed as a cost-effective alternative:
- Basic Cremation Services: Prices start at approximately PHP 20,000.
- Comprehensive Packages: Including viewing and urn, costs can go up to PHP 140,000.
- Columbarium Niches: For urn storage, prices range from PHP 20,000 to PHP 150,000.
Legal Documentation and Miscellaneous Costs
Securing a death certificate from the Philippine Statistics Authority is essential, with fees ranging from PHP 150 to PHP 500.
Additional expenses may include transportation, obituary announcements, and memorial programs, which can collectively add several thousand pesos to the total cost.
Planning Ahead: The Role of Life Plans
Given the substantial expenses associated with funerals, pre-need memorial plans offer a practical solution. Companies like Golden Future Life Plans provide comprehensive services designed to alleviate the financial burden on families during their time of grief. Established in 2018 by the MB Villar Group of Companies, we offer life plans that include complete memorial services, insurance coverage, and flexible payment options. Our commitment ensures that families can honor their loved ones without the added stress of unexpected costs.
Check our traditional and cremation life plan packages for a worry-free memorial. If interested, contact us today.
When you are already decided on which plan to avail, Online Purchase is available.