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  • The Funeral Industry Adapts to the Pandemic: How to Stay in Business

    The Funeral Industry Adapts to the Pandemic: How to Stay in Business

    The funeral industry has changed significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has led to a number of changes in the way funerals are conducted, including:

    • Increased use of technology: Funeral homes have had to adapt to the pandemic by using technology to provide services to families. This includes live-streaming funerals so that loved ones who cannot attend in person can still be a part of the service.
    • Increased demand for cremation: Many families have opted for cremation services instead of traditional burial services due to the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Cremation is a more sanitary process and it can be more cost-effective than traditional burial services.
    • Changes to funeral rituals: The pandemic has also led to changes in funeral rituals. For example, some families have chosen to have smaller, more intimate funerals or to hold funerals outdoors.

    The Funeral Industry Adapts to the Pandemic: How to Stay in Business

    The funeral industry is facing a number of challenges as a result of the pandemic. These challenges include:

    • Financial losses: Funeral homes have lost revenue due to the pandemic. This is because families have had to cancel or postpone funerals.
    • Increased competition: The funeral industry is facing increased competition from online funeral providers. These providers offer lower-cost services that are often more convenient for families.
    • Changing consumer preferences: The pandemic has led to changes in consumer preferences for funeral services. Families are now more interested in personalized and affordable services.

    In order to stay in the game, funeral home owners will need to adapt to the changing needs of consumers. This includes offering more personalized and affordable services and using technology to provide services to families. They will also need to find ways to compete with online funeral providers. This may include offering lower-cost services or providing more convenient options for families.

    Here are some of the things that the funeral home in the Philippines can do to stay in business:

    • Offer more personalized services: Funeral homes can offer more personalized services by working with families to create a funeral that reflects the loved one’s life and interests. This may include providing custom caskets, urns, or headstones. Funeral homes can also offer unique services, such as memorial trees or butterfly releases.
    • Offer more affordable services: Funeral homes can offer more affordable services by streamlining their operations and reducing costs. This may include using less expensive, yet quality materials or offering discounts for families who pre-plan their funerals.
    • Use technology to provide services: Funeral homes can use technology to provide services to families who are unable to attend in person. This may include live-streaming funerals or providing virtual memorials.
    • Partner with other businesses: Funeral homes can partner with other businesses to offer a wider range of services to families. This may include partnering with florists, caterers, or musicians.

    The death care industry is facing a number of challenges, but it is also an opportunity for innovation. By adapting to the changing needs of consumers, funeral homes can stay in the game and continue to provide meaningful services to families.

    To stay up-to-date on funeral home business trends, we recommend following Pacific Center for Advanced Studies (PCAS) on Facebook or visiting their website. PCAS regularly hosts webinars on how to run a funeral home efficiently and effectively, as well as new embalming techniques and strategies.

  • Valentine’s Day Without Them: Memorial Ideas

    Valentine’s Day Without Them: Memorial Ideas

    Valentine’s Day is supposed to be a time of joy and a celebration of love. But for others, it only brings sadness and even more grief. 

    Unfortunately, grief is unavoidable and can be overwhelming for many people. The emotions are intensified during this period. It is important to understand this to help you cope and find ways to make them more manageable.

    Valentine's Day Without Them: Memorial Ideas

    Here are some ideas on how to keep their memory alive and celebrate your love even after they have passed away.

    • Write them a letter.

    It can be difficult for you after you have lost a spouse. Expressing your feelings of grief and sadness would be hard while others are celebrating their love. You can write your thoughts and feelings in a safe, private space. It gives you the opportunity to process your emotions in an honest and meaningful way. 

    Write a love story for your late spouse. It is your love letter to them. 

    • Invite friends or family to celebrate with you.

    Choosing to be isolated during this day is totally fine. However, hosting an intimate gathering of family and friends can provide you with the love and support you need to cope. It is probably what everyone needs after the loss. This small gathering will be an opportunity to remember a loved one, share stories, and celebrate their life.

    Surrounding yourself with family and friends on Valentine’s Day will provide you comfort during a difficult time.

    • Bring flowers to their grave.

    If you have lost a loved one recently, visiting their grave site is hard and can bring back strong emotions. But it also can help you accept and move on. By visiting them, you are also reminded of our mortality and how important it is to cherish the memories of those we have lost.

    Flowers are a beautiful way to remember those who have passed away. They are the expression of love and appreciation for the life of the person we have lost; a tangible reminder of one’s life and a great way to honor their memory.

    • Light a candle.

    While Valentine’s Day is a day of joy and celebration, it can be a time of sadness if you cannot be with your loved one. Lighting a candle can somehow make you feel their presence on this special day. But be aware that it will bring back sad emotions. 

    The light of the candle represents your loved one’s presence with you on Valentine’s Day. After lighting the candle, close your eyes, breathe and imagine them being with you. This simple act will you feel connected to them even if they are not with you physically.

    • Give back to honor them.

    By giving back on Valentine’s Day, you can remember your dearly beloved in a meaningful way. You can share your love with others in their memory. You can use this day as an opportunity to make a positive difference in someone’s life. This is one of the most beautiful ways to remember those you have lost and keep their spirit alive.

    You can choose a charity or an organization that you know your loved one would have supported if they were still alive. Volunteer if you have the time or make donations to honor them.

    This Valentine’s Day, give yourself some space. Relax and take care of yourself. Your deceased loved one would have wanted you to be happy and live your life. Take some time of the day to do something that brings you joy, whether it’s reading a book or taking a walk. Let your loved one’s spirit guide you as you honor their memory on February 14.

     

  • Different Kinds of Caskets Available in the Philippines and How Much Does It Cost

    Different Kinds of Caskets Available in the Philippines and How Much Does It Cost

    Caskets are a form of art meant to reflect the personality and life of the person who passed. It helps preserve the body, allowing family and friends to say goodbye to their loved ones. It is a final gesture of love and respect, but also a last act of closure.

    Caskets can be made from various materials, including wood, metal, or fabric. They can be solid or open-faced, with or without handles. A well-designed coffin can help provide comfort to those who are mourning.

    Different Kinds of Caskets Available in the Philippines and How Much Does It Cost

    Different kinds of caskets available in the Philippines:

    • Wood

    Wooden caskets are available in a wide range of styles and price points. It is a popular choice for those who want their loved ones to be buried in an eco-friendly manner. The high-end designs are made with hardwood like oak, mahogany, or maple. There are low-priced caskets, but oftentimes, they are not on display. 

    Wooden casket price ranges between PHP 3,000 to millions. 

    • Metal

    The price of metal caskets will vary depending on the thickness of the steel used. The thickness of the steel depends on its gauge. The lower the gauge, the thicker the metal. This means that it will be more expensive when the gauge decreases.

    Metal casket prices range between PHP 16,000 to millions. Some funeral homes offer a warranty for longevity to their select metal casket.

    • Fiberglass

    Fiberglass caskets are made of polymer resin mixed with glass fibers. They are lightweight and durable and can be produced in any shape or size. They are also available in many different colors, which is not typical for other types of caskets.

    Other features

    • Exterior design

    It is common in the Philippines that people to choose ready-made caskets as they are more affordable. However, custom-made caskets are also available, but might cost more. 

    The casket shell is covered in a protective coating such as lacquer or varnish. Some casket makers accept customization and would paint the casket shell with other colors or wrapped with images to reflect the personality of the deceased. Other external parts of the casket can be customized as well, such as the handles and corners.

    • Interior design

    The lining inside the casket is usually made from a more economical material like polyester and it serves as a bed for the body. The type of material chosen for this purpose varies depending on factors such as cost and personal preference. A velvet or silk lining, for example, may be preferred by some.

    Some caskets have gaskets. The gaskets provide a seal between two objects to cushion or isolate them from the outside environment. Caskets are closed with a lid and then sealed with a gasket, which is a piece of rubber or other material. Gaskets may help preserve the body for an extended period, however, it doesn’t stop the body from decomposing.

    • Internal compartment

    A memory compartment is a special place where the family can put in small items that they want to go with the deceased. This could be pictures, messages, or something special.

    Planning for the future is a difficult task, especially when it comes to funeral expenses. With rising costs and limited budgets, it is becoming increasingly difficult to make sure that funeral costs are covered. Fortunately, there are ways to make funeral planning more affordable. By taking steps such as investing in a pre-need life plan, individuals can ensure that their loved ones are not burdened with expensive funeral expenses after they pass away.

  • Grief & Loss: How To Check In On Someone Who Is Grieving

    Grief & Loss: How To Check In On Someone Who Is Grieving

    Some people might not want to talk about their problems, but it’s worth reaching out to let them know that you are there for them. It’s always important to check in on friends and family members when they are going through a difficult time. 

    If you’re wondering about how someone is doing and want to show that you care, these tips can help you.

    Grief & Loss: How To Check In On Someone Who Is Grieving

    • Ensure you are calm and relaxed

    Checking in with someone is a very important part of the process. It is a way for you to make sure that they are not alone in their grief.

    However, it can be hard to find the right time to do this. You don’t want to check in when emotions are running high. They might not be able to think straight. So instead, try and find a calm moment when emotions are low and then check in with them about what is going on.

    • Start a small talk

    We often find ourselves in the position of wanting to support our friends and loved ones, but not knowing how. It can be difficult to know what to say or do when someone is going through something tough. You can start a conversation like:

    “It’s been a while. I am just wondering how you are doing. When you are free, let’s catch up!”

    “It has been a year. How are you holding up?”

    “How have you been doing, really? Things become so overwhelming sometimes – do you feel the same?”

    • Give them time to talk, simply listen to what they say

    Listening attentively can be a great way of showing that you care about someone and their thoughts. It is also a good way of learning more about the person you are listening to.

    It is difficult for some people to express themselves in a way that can be understood by others. They might have difficulty articulating their thoughts and feelings about a certain topic or a situation so you have to be patient and understanding.

    • Don’t make any assumptions

    It is important to work as a team because it will make the process more efficient. You should ask what they need before trying to solve their problems.

    It is best to avoid using medical terms or diagnoses unless they’re diagnosed by a professional and they’re comfortable talking about it. These words can be triggering for some people. Instead, allow them to talk about their specific experience or emotions. You can also share some of your own experience to let them know that if you were able to get through it, they can too!

  • Coping With The New Year After Losing a Loved One

    Coping With The New Year After Losing a Loved One

    Coping with the memories of a loved one can be difficult at the best of times. It can be especially hard when you’ve lost someone recently.

    It is important to remember that you are not alone in this. Grief is a natural human response to loss and it is normal for it to take time to get through the grieving process. The New Year is a time when people are typically looking for resolutions to their problems, and the desire to be kinder to themselves is no exception. This can be hard for those who have lost loved ones recently.

    Coping With The New Year After Losing a Loved One

    These are some tips that may help you make grief a little easier to cope with at New Year:

    • Do what feels right for you

    We live in a time where we have to be constantly connected. It is not a bad thing, but it can be exhausting. Some people need time to themselves to recharge their batteries and get back on their feet.

    It is important that you take care of yourself and do what feels best for you. If it feels right for you to have a quiet night at home with the TV, then that is totally fine.

    • Don’t overthink what could possibly happen next

    It can be hard to not think about the memories you shared with them and how they impacted your life. But instead of living in the past, try to focus on what is happening in front of you.

    We should take a moment to remember their contributions and celebrate their lives by acknowledging what they have done for us.

    • Be with the people who understand your grief

    The best way to get through grief is to be around people who care about you. It can also be helpful for you to talk about your feelings and memories with others who are going through the same thing.

    Do not isolate yourself from people during this difficult time.

    The New Year can be a difficult time of the year for those who are grieving. For some, the New Year triggers memories of past celebrations that they enjoyed with their loved ones. For others, it is a reminder that their loved ones will no longer be there to enjoy the upcoming festivities.

    It’s important to take care of ourselves during this season and not let our grief get in the way of enjoying this holiday season with friends and family members.

     

  • Celebration After the Pandemic: 15th Philippine Mortuary Association Annual Convention 

    Celebration After the Pandemic: 15th Philippine Mortuary Association Annual Convention 

    The Philippine Mortuary Association (PMA) was founded to create a space for funeral home owners and professionals to mingle and learn from each other. Since its inception, PMA has been at the forefront of many initiatives that aim to raise awareness about the latest strategies and techniques in managing a funeral home. They are also providing support for funeral homes in terms of marketing, human resource development, and many other aspects.

    The association has been holding an annual gathering for over a decade. The event always takes place in a different city every year. However, the pandemic forced them to put the event on hold in 2020.

    Celebration After the Pandemic: 15th Philippine Mortuary Association Annual Convention

    15th Philippine Mortuary Association (PMA) Annual Convention: A L.E.A.P. of Faith

    On November 30, 2022, PMA held the much-awaited convention in Woodlane Events Place, Las Pinas, Metro Manila. It was a 3-day event (November 30 – December 02, 2022) attended by funeral home owners, executives, licensed funeral directors, and embalmers. 

    This year’s theme: A LEAP of Faith

    The association has been a stronghold for many funeral home owners and professionals, especially during the pandemic. The goal of the convention was to celebrate the successes and at the same to learn, engage, adapt, and professionalize the funeral profession. Thus, PMA invited speakers not only from the funeral industry but also from other fields to inspire and motivate the members to be better both in their professional and personal life.

    Celebration After the Pandemic: 15th Philippine Mortuary Association Annual Convention

    Top-caliber speakers in their field

    The association’s board and working committee carefully planned the event, inviting top-caliber speakers from the country. The event was a success, with a turnout of over a hundred people. It was an excellent event with the best speakers who left the audience with great insights. 

    PMA did a good job of getting speakers from the industry, and also invited motivational speakers, marketers, psychologists, and more. They even invited doctors, lawyers, and forensic experts. It is certainly an event one should haven’t missed, especially when you are in the mortuary industry in the Philippines.

    Celebration After the Pandemic: 15th Philippine Mortuary Association Annual Convention Celebration After the Pandemic: 15th Philippine Mortuary Association Annual Convention

    Celebration After the Pandemic: 15th Philippine Mortuary Association Annual Convention Celebration After the Pandemic: 15th Philippine Mortuary Association Annual Convention

    Raffle prizes that blew everyone’s mind

    The Philippines Mortuary Association didn’t also hold back from preparing lots of raffle prizes for all those who attended the annual convention. The prizes ranged from home appliances to imported caskets. The cost of the caskets was between PHP 50,000 – 2 million. Everyone was super excited about the grand prize, which was a casket from Batesville. 

    Thank you, @titakeii, for hosting the event and for this video.

    Generous sponsors

    The event wouldn’t have been a success without the generosity of our sponsors and the loyalty of our active members.

    There was an exhibit hall prepared for the sponsors to showcase their products and services. Early bird registrants had the first dibs in the hall and some were lucky to get some merch from our generous sponsors. Funerallink, for example, gave camera covers for laptops and umbrellas. All registrants received a kit, certificate, and renewal certification documents.

    The event sponsors were the Pacific Center for Advanced Studies (PCAS), Cosmopolitan Climb Life Plan Inc.  (CCLPI), Batesville, Funerallink, DODGE, IPI, Woodlane Events Place, Cosmopolitan Memorial Chapels, The Philippine Star, Diwa Metal Caskets, and a lot more.

    Being an active PMA member gets to enjoy the following perks:

    • Get a 10% discount at PCAS Continuing Embalmers Education (CEE) program
    • Get a 10% when purchasing supplier products for DODGE
    • Get a discount group rate for attending international conventions
    • Get a chance to win a prize during the annual convention
    • Most importantly, you get to rub elbows with the best in the mortuary industry 

    How to become a Philippine Mortuary Association member? 

    Talk to their friendly admin through the PMA – Philippines Mortuary Association official Facebook page 

    Or, call Ms. Febbie at 0923 737 7981

     

  • 5 Simple Ways to Spend Your 13th Month Pay 

    5 Simple Ways to Spend Your 13th Month Pay 

    Christmas is a time of the year when we need to buy presents for our loved ones. With so many obligations and so little time, it can be hard to find the perfect gift. 

    Before the year ends, employees receive an additional full-month pay or a 13th-month pay. Some employers give extra bonuses to their loyal and outstanding staff. There is no wonder that you will see a lot of stores enticing the shoppers with their sale promos- because, yes, they have money to spend.

    However, have you paused for a while and thought of how to wisely spend your money?

    An oldie but a goodie, this principle is as true now as it was decades ago. The idea is that you should put money into savings before you spend it on anything else. This way, if something unforeseen happens and you need to use your savings, you’ll have plenty of cash available.

    The principle of paying yourself first means that no matter what the circumstances are, even if they are dire and life-changing, the first thing that needs to be done is to pay yourself first. This will ensure that at least one person in your family has some resources available to them when they need them most.

    5 Simple Ways to Spend Your 13th Month Pay 

    Here are 5 simple ways to spend your 13th month’s pay:

    Pay off debts

    Debt is a huge financial burden and it can really take a toll on your mental health. It can make you feel like you’re never going to get out of the hole that you’ve dug for yourself. The good news is that there are some ways to get out of debt and have a debt-free future.

    You can start by paying off your debts, which will give you the chance to have a worry-free future. You might be thinking that this isn’t an option for you because it would take too long or it would cost too much money, but there are some ways to do it without spending all your money or taking years off your life.

    But, when you are in a financial crunch, you might be tempted to spend all your 13th month just to settle all of your debts. Talk to your debtor or creditor. They might be okay that you will pay a portion of your debt. This way, it will be easier for you, and still have money to spend on your Noche Buena.

    Start investing

    No debt and want to diversify your income? 

    Investing in the Philippines has become accessible and easy. You can start by asking your HR department about how to invest in PAG-IBIG MP2 and SSS Peso Fund. 

    When you have time, you can reach out to a financial adviser and inquire about how to build your retirement and emergency fund.

    Other investments you can do depending on your risk appetite:

    Invest in personal growth

    The world of work is changing and with it, the skill sets needed to stay competitive. Investing in yourself and your career by taking up new courses is a great way to stay ahead of the curve.

    It is never too late to upskill yourself and pursue your career goals. With the help of online courses, you can now enroll in any course that you want, anytime and anywhere. Here are some benefits of upskilling:

    – You will be more knowledgeable about your industry.

    – You will be able to provide better services to your clients.

    – You will have a competitive advantage over other freelancers in the market.

    – Your resume will look more professional with the addition of a new skill on it.

    Pamper yourself

    Spending time on yourself is not selfish, it’s necessary. And you deserve to treat yourself to something nice every now and then.

    It might be a me-time at the spa, a staycation or even buying something you want but can’t afford. Treating yourself is not a bad thing and should be done as often as possible.

    Give back

    The Christmas season is a time for giving and sharing. It’s the season of hope, peace, and joy. It’s also a time when people are more receptive to hearing about your blessings.

    This is why you should take every opportunity to share your blessings with others, even more so during the Christmas season.

    Your money. Your choice. Your thoughts?

    The 13th month’s pay is a great opportunity to give yourself a treat or to do something nice for someone else. It’s also a good time to think about your financial situation and plan for the future.

    While most of us are busy trying to make ends meet, we often forget that the future is what matters the most. We need to focus on things that will secure our future rather than satisfying our shopping urges that bring momentary happiness.

    You should not let yourself get carried away with shopping so much because it can lead to serious financial consequences. Start today and be wiser with your finances- for yourself, and for your family’s future.

     

  • Funeral Hearse in the Philippines

    Funeral Hearse in the Philippines

    Funeral cars are the most common type of vehicle used in a funeral procession. They can be either a hearse or a limousine, depending on the needs of the family. A person’s choice of transportation to a funeral can hold various meanings. It can show the type of relationship they had with the person who died, their position in the family, and how they want to be remembered.

    What is a funeral hearse? 

    A hearse is a vehicle that is used to transport the dead from the place of death to the location of burial or cremation. It is also called a funeral coach. These vehicles are usually driven by funeral professionals or pallbearers.

    Funeral cars have been around for centuries and their design has evolved. Some funeral cars are specially designed so that they can be driven straight into a church or crematorium.

    Funeral Hearse in the Philippines

    What are the commonly used funeral hearses in the Philippines?

    Hearses are not made by the car manufacturers themselves. They are usually made by conversion companies that customize existing passenger vehicles.

    The earliest hearses were horse-drawn, but they were replaced by motorized vehicles in the early 20th century.

    In some cases, the body of an existing car is used as a hearse by being extended with a compartment for carrying coffins or caskets. This is usually done to accommodate larger coffins and caskets or to make the vehicle more imposing.

    But hearse is not just vehicles that have been customized to perform as hearses over the years, but also models of cars. 

    Here’s a list of models that have been customized to perform as hearses over the years:

    • Cadillac XTS
    • Cadillac DTS
    • Lincoln MKT
    • Lincoln Continental
    • Buick Enclave
    • Chevrolet Suburban
    • Jaguar XJL
    • Rolls-Royce Phantom

    Funeral homes in the Philippines have developed creative ways to make funeral services more affordable. They have a top-of-the-line fleet of Starex and other Korean/Japanese-made cars.

    However, if you wish to have a feel of traditional funeral service, the family can choose a carriage to take the deceased loved one to their final resting place. San Fernando Funeral Homes, for example, offers this kind of funeral hearse.

    Philippine Hearse Rental provides funeral hearses and other specialty vehicles. You can reach out to them through their Facebook page.

    Funeral Hearse in the Philippines

    The latest trend is the motorcycle hearse that is being offered in one of the premier funeral homes in the country. They provide the first Harley Hearse in the Philippines. This is perfect for someone who loves motorcycles and adventure. Check out their Facebook page here.

     

  • Grief & Loss: Understanding and Talking About Your Feelings

    Grief & Loss: Understanding and Talking About Your Feelings

    Coping with a loss is different for everyone and there are no “right” or “wrong” ways to do it. What works for one person may not work for another person, so take time to explore your options before deciding on what will work best for you. 

    It’s natural for people who are grieving to feel ashamed or guilty when they talk about their feelings. They might think that people won’t understand what they’re feeling or that other people will judge them for how they are feeling.

    Grief is a very personal and difficult experience. People go through different stages of the process, and in order to get through it, they need to be able to talk about it.

    Grief & Loss: Understanding and Talking About Your Feelings

    Here are some simple tips you can do to understand and talk about your feelings when grieving:

    • Know how to name your emotions

    We often notice how we feel in certain situations or when we are in a certain mood. But sometimes, it can be hard to put your finger on what exactly is making you feel a certain way. Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or sad? 

    Keeping a journal is a great way to express your thoughts and feelings. It is a way to express yourself and help you process your feelings and get them out of your system. Journaling is a way to make sense of the world.

    • Talk about your feelings

    Talking about your feelings with someone you trust can be a helpful way to process and understand your emotions. You may find it can help to put things into perspective.

    • Learn how to use “I” 

    When we speak of emotions, it is often difficult to put into words how we are feeling. It is easy to come up with an answer that seems like it should be the right one, but in reality it can feel very forced and unnatural. It can be tempting to try to guess what someone else might be feeling, but that is not a good idea. When trying to explain our own emotions, it is best to focus on our own experiences and feelings rather than trying to understand how someone else might feel.

    Try saying “I feel” without having to explain it. It helps others understand what you are going through, and it also helps you understand your own feelings better.

    • Pause and breathe

    When the conversation is not going well, it is important to pause or take a break. This will help you to calm down and manage your emotions.

    We can take a few slow breaths, wait until we feel calmer, and then continue the conversation.

    • Don’t be afraid or ashamed to ask for help

    It’s important to remember that asking for help is a sign of strength and not weakness. This can be helpful if you want others to know how you want them to react or support you.

    When asking for help, it is important not to make it seem like a sign of weakness. It is important to be open and honest about what you are trying to accomplish and why you need the help.