Know the Pros and Cons of Cremation

The decision of the immediate family on what undertaking to choose after the death of a member – that is, burial, cremation or repatriation. Although most families end up choosing to bury their dead loved one because it is more traditional, more and the number of people has chosen cremation.

According to Huffingtonpost.ca, “In 1958, only about one in 28 Americans were cremated upon death. Today, the percentage of Americans who are cremated has risen to more than 40 percent.” 

Here in the Philippines, cremation has gained popularity as well. The younger generation, more open-minded ones and vocal about their choices, choose cremation. Let’s talk about the pros and cons of cremation before making a choice. 

Advantages of Cremation

• Flexibility – With families all over the Philippines (and the world), buying a single plot in the hometown cemetery isn’t practical anymore. Although transportation – land, water, and air – has gotten easier over the years, the paperwork to ship or move the remains for long distances is still very strict and stressful. 
• Cost – The average cost of burial in the Philippines is at least 120,000.00. This includes costs such as storage and embalming, chapel, purchase of a cemetery plot, transport and burial services and government fees and paperwork. On the other hand, the average cost for cremation is 60,000.00 which would include fees and paperwork, cremation process and urn. Funerallink provides the list of funeral homes which offer affordable cremation services and assistance.
• Freedom – The family of the deceased doesn’t need to rush burying the body. With cremation, they can decide whether to dispose or store the ashes. The choice like scattering ashes of the deceased in a sentimental location in his memory, or carrying some of the ashes in jewelry makes cremation a plus and creates a beautiful bond between families even after death.
• Green – Cremation is environmentally friendly as it has less impact on the planet. 

Disadvantages of Cremation

• Tradition – Although the world and views of people have changed, tradition remains the same. Burial is tradition especially in the Philippines where tradition is heavily influenced by religion and religion still undoubtedly molds a common Filipino household. Choosing cremation could create tension in an already stressful event. 
• Permanent – The choice to cremate the body cannot be reversed. The cremation decision is final.
• Sense of Presence – Sometimes it is difficult for some families to mourn when Filipinos are so used to the long days and nights of the wake. The sense of presence and seeing the body in the casket is part of the grieving process giving the bereaved closure, and a chance to say their last farewells. And unless the urn is buried in a small plot in a cemetery, there is no headstone to visit considering Filipinos have the yearly All Souls Day celebration.

Experiencing death in the family causes unknown sadness and turmoil. But when a choice is premade and paid, whether burial or cremation, the cost is minimized and final wishes are ensured and secured. Funerallink will help you make that choice with a list of funeral homes all over the Philippines.

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