How to Send Funeral Flowers in the Philippines

How to Send Funeral Flowers in the Philippines: A Thoughtful Guide for Overseas Filipinos and Local Buyers

Saying goodbye to a loved one is never easy. It is one of life’s most profound and emotional moments—a time when words often fail but gestures speak volumes. In Filipino culture, bidding farewell to someone who has passed is not just a tradition; it is a sacred ritual steeped in love, respect, and deep family values. From solemn vigils to heartfelt eulogies, every gesture made during this difficult time carries immense meaning.

One of the most timeless and compassionate ways to honor a departed soul is by offering funeral flowers. In the Philippines, this act is seen not only as a symbol of remembrance but also as a way to comfort grieving families, show solidarity, and convey emotions that are often too difficult to express verbally. Whether it’s a standing spray, casket arrangement, funeral wreath, or a sympathy bouquet, these floral tributes offer beauty, peace, and solemnity in a time of sorrow.

For Filipinos living overseas, separated from their families by oceans and miles, sending funeral flowers to the Philippines becomes a bridge of love and support. It’s a way to be present even when physically apart—to show that even in absence, you are thinking of your loved ones and honoring the life of the deceased. For local residents, sending funeral flowers is equally meaningful—a gesture of respect, community, and deep compassion.

Whether you are an OFW wanting to send your condolences from abroad, a relative in another province, or a friend within the city seeking a timely and respectful delivery, understanding the traditions and logistics of funeral flower delivery in the Philippines can help ensure your message is delivered with the dignity it deserves.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about sending funeral flowers in the Philippines. From the cultural significance of different flower types to the meanings behind popular arrangements, and from the right etiquette when choosing sympathy flowers to how to place an order for nationwide delivery—you’ll find all the guidance you need here. Whether your intention is to offer comfort, express sympathy, or pay your final respects, we’ll help you do it with grace, sincerity, and the thoughtfulness that this moment calls for.

Why Funeral Flowers Hold Deep Meaning in Filipino Culture

In the Philippines, funerals and wakes are deeply rooted in tradition, often spanning several days filled with heartfelt prayers, storytelling, and collective mourning. These gatherings are moments for family and community to come together, not only to say goodbye but to celebrate the life of the departed. Within this solemn yet compassionate atmosphere, funeral flowers hold a significant place—they are far more than mere decorations. They are profound symbols of love, sympathy, hope, and eternal peace.

Each floral arrangement, whether it is a funeral wreath, standing spray, casket spray, or a simple bouquet, carries layers of meaning and intention. These flowers serve as a language of the heart, conveying sentiments that words alone often struggle to express. They bring comfort to grieving families by surrounding them with beauty and serenity during an emotionally difficult time. Beyond their visual appeal, these floral tributes reflect the spiritual beliefs of many Filipinos, symbolizing the soul’s journey toward eternal rest and offering solace that transcends the physical realm.

The presence of flowers at wakes and funerals also honors the memory of the deceased in a dignified and respectful manner, reflecting the high regard Filipinos have for family and legacy. Their use is a testament to the value placed on showing empathy, solidarity, and respect through thoughtful, tangible expressions of care.

Who Sends Funeral Flowers in the Philippines?

The tradition of sending funeral flowers in the Philippines is embraced by many different groups, each with their own reasons and heartfelt intentions:

• Overseas Filipinos (OFWs, immigrants, and expats): For Filipinos working or living abroad, the distance can make it impossible to attend wakes and funerals in person. Sending funeral flowers becomes a powerful way to express their condolences and spiritual presence. It is a gesture that bridges the gap of miles and time zones, showing family and friends back home that even though they are apart, their hearts remain close.

• Local family members and friends: Whether attending the wake physically or unable to be there for various reasons, many Filipinos locally send flowers as a sign of respect and support. It’s a way to publicly acknowledge their grief and share in the collective mourning, while also comforting the bereaved family during their time of loss.

• Corporate clients, colleagues, and acquaintances: In Filipino society, relationships often extend beyond personal ties. Businesses and organizations also send sympathy flowers to express condolences to employees, clients, or partners who have lost loved ones. This practice reflects the value placed on maintaining respectful and compassionate professional relationships, demonstrating that empathy and humanity are integral even in the corporate world.

Types of Funeral Flowers Commonly Sent in the Philippines

In the Philippines, the choice of funeral flowers is deeply symbolic and carefully considered. Each type of flower arrangement carries its own meaning and purpose, reflecting the relationship with the deceased and the message the sender wishes to convey. Understanding these different styles can help you select the perfect floral tribute to honor your loved one respectfully.

1. Funeral Wreaths

The funeral wreath is perhaps the most recognizable symbol of mourning and remembrance. Traditionally circular, the wreath’s unbroken ring symbolizes eternal life and the enduring nature of the soul beyond death. These lush arrangements are typically crafted from a variety of flowers—such as chrysanthemums, lilies, and roses—and are prominently displayed at wakes, church services, and funeral venues. Their round shape represents continuity and the infinite cycle of life, making wreaths a comforting and meaningful tribute.

2. Standing Sprays

Standing sprays are elegant, large floral displays arranged vertically on easels or stands. These sprays are usually placed beside the casket or at key points during the funeral ceremony, making them highly visible to mourners and guests. They convey a formal and dignified message of sympathy, often sent by extended family members, friends, or organizations wishing to publicly show their respect and condolences. The vertical design allows for creative arrangements using a mix of flowers, greenery, and ribbons with personalized messages.

3. Casket Sprays

Placed directly atop the coffin, casket sprays are among the most intimate floral tributes. These arrangements are generally sent by immediate family members or very close friends and are meant to honor the deceased in the most personal way. Casket sprays are often designed to complement the preferences or personality of the departed, using favorite flowers or colors. Their placement on the coffin symbolizes love, respect, and a final farewell.

4. Cross and Heart Arrangements

Floral arrangements shaped like crosses or hearts are highly symbolic and visually striking choices. The cross arrangement holds deep religious significance for many Filipinos, symbolizing faith, salvation, and the promise of eternal life in Christian beliefs. Heart-shaped flower arrangements represent love and deep emotional connection, often chosen to express heartfelt sympathy and affection. These arrangements are typically displayed prominently at the funeral venue, serving as powerful reminders of the spiritual and emotional bonds shared with the deceased.

5. Sympathy Bouquets

For occasions where space is limited, or for more intimate gatherings such as cremation services, sympathy bouquets offer a simpler yet meaningful way to express condolences. These smaller arrangements may be sent by friends, colleagues, or acquaintances who want to offer their sympathy without the formality of larger displays. Despite their modest size, sympathy bouquets carry deep significance and are often delivered directly to the family’s home or funeral parlor, providing comfort and a personal touch.

Popular Funeral Flowers and Their Meanings in the Philippines

When selecting funeral flowers, it’s important to look beyond just their beauty and colors. Each flower carries a unique symbolism and emotional message that can provide comfort, convey respect, or express the deep feelings you hold for the departed. In Filipino funeral traditions, these meanings add an important layer of significance to the floral tribute, helping you send your condolences in the most thoughtful way possible.

White Lilies

White lilies are among the most classic and widely used funeral flowers. They symbolize purity, innocence, and the restored innocence of the soul after death. Their delicate, elegant appearance conveys peace and spiritual renewal, making them an especially appropriate choice for expressing sympathy and hope for eternal rest. In Filipino culture, white lilies evoke a serene and reverent atmosphere, helping to soothe grieving hearts.

Roses (White and Red)

Roses are deeply symbolic flowers with meanings that vary by color.

• White roses represent reverence, purity, and innocence, often chosen to honor the peaceful passing of a loved one.

• Red roses, on the other hand, convey love, respect, and courage—a powerful tribute to a life well-lived and deeply cherished.
  In funeral arrangements, roses communicate heartfelt emotions and are often included in wreaths, casket sprays, or sympathy bouquets to show profound admiration and affection.

Chrysanthemums

Known simply as “mums,” chrysanthemums carry a particularly strong cultural significance across Asia, including the Philippines. They are widely associated with death, lamentation, and grief, serving as a respectful acknowledgment of loss. In many Filipino wakes and funerals, chrysanthemums are common and accepted symbols of mourning, representing the cycle of life and the enduring remembrance of the deceased.

Orchids

Orchids symbolize everlasting love, beauty, and peace. Their exotic and graceful blooms make them a favored choice for funeral tributes that seek to emphasize the eternal nature of love beyond death. Orchids also suggest strength and dignity, offering comfort to those left behind by highlighting the lasting impact of the departed’s life.

Anthuriums

Anthuriums, with their distinctive heart-shaped, glossy leaves and vibrant colors, are meaningful symbols of sympathy and hospitality. They convey a warm and compassionate message, expressing condolences in a unique and elegant way. In Filipino funerals, anthuriums are sometimes included in arrangements to represent care and kindness extended to the grieving family.

Carnations

Carnations are beloved for their versatility and rich symbolism in funeral customs. They represent devotion, remembrance, and admiration. Depending on their color, carnations can convey different sentiments, but overall they are a timeless choice to honor the memory of the deceased and to express sincere sympathy. Their long-lasting blooms make them a comforting presence during wakes and memorials.

How to Send Funeral Flowers from Abroad (Overseas Filipinos)

Missing a loved one’s funeral while living abroad is heartbreaking. But sending flowers to the wake or memorial can bridge that emotional gap.

Here’s how to do it from outside the Philippines:

Step 1: Choose a Trusted Local Flower Shop

Search online for a Philippines-based funeral flower delivery service. Look for:

• Same-day or next-day delivery

• Nationwide coverage

• Options like wreaths, casket sprays, cross arrangements

• Secure payment options (PayPal, credit cards, etc.)

Step 2: Provide Accurate Details

You’ll need:

• Recipient’s name

• Delivery address (funeral home or residence)

• Date/time of the wake or funeral

• Message for the sympathy card

Step 3: Choose Your Arrangement

Select based on your relationship to the deceased. For example:

• Wreath for colleagues

• Casket spray for immediate family

• Standing spray for relatives and close friends

Step 4: Add a Personal Message

Even a short note can mean a lot:

“Our hearts are with you during this time. With love and deepest sympathy, from Canada.”

Step 5: Track or Confirm Delivery

Reputable flower shops will confirm when the flowers have been delivered, so you’ll know your gesture of love arrived on time.

Local Buyers: How to Order Funeral Flowers in the Philippines

For those in the Philippines, the process is easier—but still emotional. Whether you're in Manila, Davao, Cebu, or any other city, most flower delivery websites allow same-day orders.

Tips:

• Place your order early in the day for better same-day delivery success.

• If unsure about the arrangement, ask customer support to guide you.

• Double-check the wake or funeral schedule before ordering.

Nationwide Funeral Flower Delivery Across the Philippines

Whether your loved one is in a major city or a remote province, many online flower shops deliver nationwide, including:

• Metro Manila (Quezon City, Makati, Taguig, Las Piñas)

• Luzon (Baguio, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Bulacan)

• Visayas (Cebu, Iloilo, Tacloban)

• Mindanao (Davao City, General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, Zamboanga)

Make sure your chosen provider clearly mentions funeral flower delivery Philippines and covers the exact city or municipality.

Message Ideas for Sympathy Cards

Don’t know what to write on the card? Here are some heartfelt message ideas:

• “Our deepest condolences on your loss. May their soul rest in peace.”

• “You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.”

• “Sending love and strength during this difficult time.”

• “Though we are far away, our hearts are with you.”

Pro Tips When Sending Funeral Flowers

• Timing is everything: Make sure the flowers arrive during the wake or just before the burial.

• Include your name: Let the family know who the flowers are from. They may want to thank you later.

• Respect customs: Some families or religions might prefer simpler gestures—if unsure, ask discreetly.

Why This Simple Act Matters So Much

Sending funeral flowers in the Philippines is more than a tradition—it’s a gesture that tells the grieving family:

• “We remember.”

• “We care.”

• “We stand with you, even from afar.”

For Overseas Filipinos, this is especially meaningful. Being thousands of miles away doesn’t mean you can’t participate in the farewell. Your flowers represent your presence, love, and support.

For local gift buyers, it’s a simple yet powerful way to comfort someone you care about—even if you can’t attend the service.

Make It Meaningful: Add-on Options

Want to personalize your tribute further? Some flower shops offer:

• Condolence banners (custom message)

• Prayer cards or candles

• Photo print tributes

• Customized flower colors (e.g., white + favorite color of the deceased)

Ready to Send Funeral Flowers in the Philippines?

It’s easier than ever to send a thoughtful floral tribute—whether you're in Canada, the US, the Middle East, or just a few kilometers away.

Just remember:

• Choose a meaningful arrangement

• Send it on time

• Add a heartfelt message

• Let the grieving family know they’re not alone

Final Thoughts

Losing someone dear to us is one of life’s most difficult challenges. The pain of parting can feel overwhelming, and finding ways to express our grief and respect becomes a vital part of healing. In Filipino culture, honoring the life of the departed is a deeply cherished tradition—one that embraces not only mourning but also celebration, remembrance, and spiritual connection. This is done through heartfelt prayers, sharing treasured memories, and the timeless practice of offering flowers.

For many Filipinos, flowers are far more than just beautiful decorations; they are powerful symbols of love, hope, and eternal peace. They help communicate emotions that words alone sometimes cannot capture—whether it’s sympathy, gratitude, or a final farewell.

If you are an Overseas Filipino working or living far from home, sending funeral flowers is a meaningful way to bridge the physical distance. It allows you to participate in the grieving process and to show your family that even from afar, your heart and prayers remain close. For those in the Philippines, sending flowers is an important way to publicly express support, share condolences, and uphold the deep sense of community and compassion that defines Filipino society.

No matter where you are, sending funeral flowers in the Philippines is a respectful and loving gesture that honors tradition, comforts those who mourn, and keeps the memory of your loved one alive in a beautiful and lasting way.