Sagada residents reject commercialization of Panag-apoy tradition

Residents of Sagada in the Mountain Province are urging travel agencies and tourists to stop promoting Panag-apoy as a commercial festival or tourist attraction. The tradition, observed on November 1 and 2, is a solemn ritual where families gather in cemeteries to light 'saeng' (fatwood or pinewood) to honor and remember deceased relatives.

Following online criticism from residents and cultural advocates, a travel agency canceled a two-day tour package that had marketed the observance as a 'Panag-apoy Festival.' Local advocates emphasized that the practice is an intimate family ceremony rather than a staged public spectacle or entertainment event.

The Sagada Tourism Office has issued guidelines for visitors, advising them to respect the solemnity of the occasion. Tourists are encouraged to remain in designated areas, avoid photography during Mass, and refrain from activities that might disrupt families performing their rituals in silence.