Lagip- An Ilocano Way of Remembrance
Lagip is a cultural practice that is deeply rooted in Ilocano traditions. It is a way of
remembrance, a means to honor and pay tribute to the dead, and a way to keep their memory alive. This practice is still prevalent in the Ilocano community, both in the Philippines and in the diaspora.
The concept of Lagip is derived from the Ilocano word "lipat," which means "to transfer." This transfer refers to the transition of the soul from the physical world to the spiritual world. The Ilocanos believe that the soul of the deceased is still present in the physical world for a certain period after death. It is during this period that the Lagip is performed.
The Lagip is a three-day ritual that begins on the night of the death. Family members and close friends gather in the home of the deceased, where a vigil is held. During the vigil, prayers are offered, and stories about the life of the deceased are shared. It is also customary to display the casket in the living room, where the family and friends can pay their respects and say their final goodbyes.
On the second day, the casket is brought to the church for a mass, where more prayers and tributes are given. The family and friends then proceed to the cemetery for the burial. After the burial, a feast is held, where the family and friends gather to celebrate the life of the deceased.
The third and final day of the Lagip is called the "padasal," which is a continuation of the prayers and offerings for the deceased. It is also during this day that the family members distribute tokens or souvenirs to the guests as a way of thanking them for their support during the mourning period.
The Lagip is not just a way of saying goodbye to a loved one who has passed away. It is also a way to express gratitude to those who have been part of the journey, and a way to seek blessings and protection for the family of the deceased. It is a time of reflection and contemplation, where family members and friends are reminded of the importance of life, love, and relationships.
In recent years, the practice of Lagip has undergone some changes, particularly in the diaspora.
With the advent of technology, it has become easier to hold virtual Lagip, where family members and friends from different parts of the world can participate in the rituals through video
conferencing. This has allowed the Ilocano community to keep their traditions alive and to honor their loved ones, even when they are miles apart.
In conclusion, the Lagip is an Ilocano way of remembrance that has been passed down from generation to generation. It is a beautiful and meaningful practice that allows the Ilocano community to honor their loved ones who have passed away. Through Lagip, the Ilocanos are reminded of the importance of family, love, and relationships, and they are able to find comfort in the memories of those who have gone before them
