In the town of Sto. Tomas, Pampanga, crafting caskets with unique and varied designs has become a thriving livelihood for locals in Barangay San Vicente.
From simple wooden caskets to elaborate designs like monochromatic, marble, and “sleeping beauty” styles with matching lights, the town’s casket makers have found a profitable niche in this specialized work.
"Sa amin, kahit papaano may quality and then solid po yung trabaho namin kasi naka-focus talaga kami sa gawain," Tommy Fruelda, one of the casket makers, said.
Barangay San Vicente Chairman Angel David said the casket-making industry began around the 1970s and now employs 50 to 60 percent of its residents.
“Halos trabaho rito ay ataulan. Dito sa San Vicente, mga 50 to 60 percent ng mga residente rito ay nagtatrabaho sa ataul,” David said.
Caskets in the area range from P1,000 to as much as P350,000 or more, depending on size, materials, and design.