Driving Superstitions in the Philippines

Driving Superstitions in the Philippines

The Philippines is a deeply religious and superstitious country. Some of these practices have been showcased by the Pinoy animated series Trese. By the different superstitions shown there, they failed to show some of our interesting ones regarding driving.

In our culture, there are beliefs regarding driving. It does not matter whether one believes the supernatural or not, because Filipinos practice these nevertheless. It would not hurt you to know some of our country’s superstitions especially if you plan to stay here for a while.

Most cars have been blessed by Catholic priests.

The culture of folk catholicism is still widespread in the Philippines. It is part of the Filipino culture to request clergymen to bless their new belongings such as a new house, a store, and even vehicles.

But the blessing is not limited to new vehicles straight from the store. Secondhand units with a spooky history, such as having been owned by a now deceased person, are typically being re-blessed again to push the bad spirits away.

Be mindful of old large trees. Do not attempt to cause any disturbance near or on it.

Most of the Philippines used to be covered in forests. Back then, Filipinos were animists who believed that there are spirits living in nature such as trees, rocks, and even bodies of water. This culture is still being practiced by indigenous tribes in the country.

A standout lore is the commonly feared Balete tree. This is considered as sacred by people, with most of them treating it with respect. When someone is driving and comes across a Balete tree, they should be quiet and respectful so as to not disturb the entity living in it.

If possible, avoid driving by a cemetery in the evenings.

Cemeteries are creepy and have been associated with ghosts. However, in the Philippines most cemeteries can be located by the side of the road!

But despite the availability and closeness cemeteries have to residential areas, there is still a terrorizing feeling attributed to cemeteries in the country.

In some provinces, it is common for people to practice the superstition of holding your breath while driving past a cemetery. Some even avoid going out in the evening so as to not encounter them when it is night time.

Do not have 13 people inside one vehicle.

When you are out for a vacation with a big group, keep in mind how many people are inside one vehicle. If you are renting a van or an SUV but have exactly 13 people on board – it might be best for you to rent 2 vehicles instead.

In the Philippines, the number 13 symbolizes bad luck. Many buildings in the country do not have a 13th floor to avoid any misfortune that comes with the number. Aside from avoiding the bad luck associated with this number, you would also want to avoid overloading an SUV rental with too many passengers too.

Whether you believe that there is a supernatural world living among us, it will not harm to learn a few superstitions. They can teach you about the country, its history, culture, and traditions.

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