BENEATH the solemnity of cemeteries, a dedicated team of caretakers works tirelessly, ensuring the resting places of the departed remain clean and dignified. Often overlooked, these workers share a common bond — performing an essential yet challenging job that supports their families while navigating the unique demands of their trade.
Lifelong dedication
Jomarie Alim, 62, from Brgy. Quintin Sala, Jaro, has tended graves in the Iloilo City Public Cemetery since 1999. Married with a child and a grandchild, he started as a cemetery cleaner in his thirties.
“Since 1999 ako naga-limpyo sa patyo. Bali paminta, pang-construct sang pantyon, kon ano ginapa-ubra sang tag-iya,” Alim explained.
Depending on the owners’ requests, he prepares funeral services, maintains mausoleums, and performs various construction tasks.
His work peaks during All Souls’ Day and Holy Week. He earns from P250 for small graves to P1,000 for larger ones, often negotiating terms directly with clients.
“Even outside funeral season, I clean as requested by families. They pay me directly, but monthly earnings vary. I have established relationships with many clients, so they often call me when they need help,” he said.
Alim also highlighted challenges in his field, such as unlicensed individuals attempting construction work on gravesites.
“We are responsible caretakers, and we should work together to ensure that everything follows the guidelines set by the city,” he said.
Reflecting on the delicate nature of his work, he added, “Kon mag-gulo ang patay kami ang ma-close, magtakod sang lapida…bisan pila kami gatuwang, indi kami kadala. Tingala kami. Ang gin-ubra namon, nag lisensiya kami sa patay.”
A life of hard work
Eddie Jacones, 69, from Brgy. Cuartero, Jaro, balances multiple responsibilities as a cemetery cleaner, construction worker, and tricycle driver. He has been helping in Jaro Catholic Cemetery since childhood.
“Sang bata ako, nagsugod na ako kay amon balay sa kilid ka patyo. Gapaminta kami dati, ang suhol P25–50, pero karon nagdugay naging amo na ni ang akon pangabuhian,” Jacones shared.
He supplements his income through cemetery work, earning from P300 to thousands depending on the grave size and services provided.
“This work has supported me throughout my life, especially when jobs are scarce. During the feast of the dead, that’s when we are most busy,” he said.
Adapting to a new role
Rheynante Garbino, 40, also from Brgy. Cuartero, Jaro, is relatively new to cemetery work at Jaro Catholic Cemetery. A tricycle driver, he took up cleaning graves to supplement his income.
“I just started this job to help with my earnings. Sometimes it can be a struggle to make enough from driving. I look for opportunities to clean here when I can,“ Garbino explained.
He establishes contracts with families for the work he performs. “I discuss pricing based on what needs cleaning or painting. It can be unpredictable, but every little bit helps,” he said.
“Dako sa nga bulig, kay samtang ga-byahe ka, kakuha ka customer…tiyaga lang. Kay indi man adlaw-adlaw, sa pista minatay lang halos October to November may gapa-tinlo,” he added.
The human touch
These caretakers face challenges unique to their line of work. Alim stresses the importance of proper permits for construction work, ensuring that all activities are carried out respectfully and within regulations.
Beyond labor, their work sustains their families. Alim supports his child and grandchild, Jacones ensures basic household needs are met, and Garbino supplements his income to make ends meet.
As All Souls’ Day approaches, their workload increases, turning them into informal community guides who help families navigate the rituals and memorials of mourning.
“We’re a team during the busy seasons, but on regular days, it’s just me,” Alim said, reflecting the deep sense of responsibility he feels.
The stories of Alim, Jacones, and Garbino illuminate the resilience of those who work behind the scenes, ensuring that communities honor their departed with dignity. Their dedication reminds us of the human touch needed in every profession, especially one so close to life and death./PN
