Honoring the afterlife through their livelihood: The casket-making industry of Sto. Tomas, Pampanga

Sto. Tomas, Pampanga is the "Casket Capital of the Philippines," supplying 70% of caskets used in the Philippines and making it a cornerstone of the industry.

With generations of artisans continuing a unique legacy of crafting high-quality caskets that serve families across the country, Sto. Tomas' casket-making industry comes to life especially around this time when the nation commemorates All Souls' Day.

Marvin Pineda, owner of Genrev Metal Caskets & Funeral Services, is one of Sto. Tomas’ prominent casket-makers, a craft his family has been dedicated to for over two decades. 

"My mother started the casket-making business in 1997," Pineda recalled. "She used to be an interior decorator for the caskets. One time, her boss encouraged her to try creating caskets, and through their support. we are able to continue her legacy up to present." 

Today, Marvin proudly represents the second generation of casket makers in his family and hopes to pass this skill to his child, preserving both a family tradition and a vital source of community livelihood.

"As Filipinos and Kapampangans, we are God-loving and family-centered. We always want the best and most decent for our loved ones...to honor them, we do our part as casket makers in providing quality service," said Pineda. 

Most of the artisans and workers, like Marvin’s team, are locals from Sto. Tomas and nearby towns, and rely on this trade as a primary source of income.  

This All Souls’ Day, the work of Sto. Tomas’ skilled casket makers stands as a testament to their commitment to both family and tradition. Blending tradition and artistry, they provide families nationwide with meaningful and beautiful ways to honor their dearly departed.

— LA, GMA Integrated News