ILOILO City – Despite sluggish early sales, candle vendors such as those around the Jaro Public Cemetery are standing their ground, banking on the traditional Halloween rush to revive business in the coming days.
For many like 60-year-old Gina Garbino, the annual observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ days (November 1 and 2) remains their most crucial earning period of the year — a time when foot traffic and faith combine to light up their livelihood.
“I’ve been selling here for many years since our house is nearby. This is our livelihood,” Garbino said in Hligaynon. “Right now, sales are still slow since it’s not yet October 31 or November 1, but we’ve already started displaying our candles in case people start buying early.”
She added: “There are many of us here — one long line of sellers offering both candles and flowers.”
Vendors said candle prices have remained stable despite inflation and rising transport costs. A small stick of esperma candle still sells at P5, while larger ones cost more depending on size.
The priciest items are special altar candles with glass holders, often used for home altars or family tombs.
Another vendor, 50-year-old Concepcion Tanangonan from Barangay Poblacion South, Oton, Iloilo, said Pyesta Minatay sales serve as a modest but vital source of income for many small families.
“Selling candles during All Saints’ Day helps us cover our daily needs. It’s only a seasonal income, but it’s still a big help,” Tanangonan said in Hiligaynon. “We’re thankful that prices didn’t increase this year, so it’s easier for us to sell.”
A pack of vigil candles now sells for P150, a pack of small esperma candles for P100, and a pack of large esperma candles for P140.
As Iloilo City prepares for a surge of visitors to cemeteries beginning midweek, small vendors remain optimistic that their patience — and faith — will soon pay off. Halloween is not just a season of remembrance; it’s also a time of survival./PN
