How to Propose for Marriage, the Filipino style By: Viol

Filipinos considered marriage as an important and special event in their lives. In this event, the couple would seek the guidance and blessings of their parents as they enter this sacred matrimony. Friends and relatives are also involved in this process.

Step1

When a man and woman decided to get married they would inform their parents about the plan.

Step2

The man's parents would come and pay a visit to the woman's house to talk about the proposal. Usually they would hire somebody as their spokesman he might be a relative of the man or close friend who would act as facilitator of the said proposal. ( they called it pamanhikan) They would bring food with them.

Step3

It is the prerogative of the woman's parents to accept the proposal or decline it. If they do accept the proposal, they would be given the chance to ask what they would want for their daughter. (they called it dowry)

Step4

The woman's parents and relatives then will set the date and the place where the wedding takes place and that includes the reception, but the man will provide all the financial needs for the wedding not the woman.

Step5

The lady's side would be given the priority for the request they would make, because they are greatly honored in this occasion.

Step6

Since the man's group have prepared food for this occasion, the food would be served after everything is set up and agreed. Everybody would have fun eating and enjoying themselves.

Step7

The usual time for the wedding preparation is 3-4 months, so then the guy would spend time with the lady's family in their house, helping and learning more about his new family and so with the lady she will also spend time with the guy's family to make herself more comfortable with them.