03/11/2026
𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐒𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐬' 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐬' 𝐃𝐚𝐲 | 𝐅𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞
The first two days of November are cherished landmarks of the calendar in regions that primarily practice Chrstian, Roman Catholic, and Evangelistic faiths. Many traditions persevere in the alcove of this celebration, each one different--from spending waking hours at sepulchres, or at home celebrating in life with those who remain. However, akin to all these practices is a crux that unites them in commemoration and prayer; it is a time to honor and remember departed loved ones.
Perhaps very symbollically, tropical and humid regions of the world have begun using a specific type of flower, now a deeply associated and widely used floral decor in these traditions. The 𝘼𝙣𝙩𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙪𝙢 spp. is a unique flower belonging to the family 𝗔𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲𝗮𝗲 (commonly Aroids), whose characteristics uniquely show a spike-like inflorescence (called the 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗱𝗶𝘅), accentuated by a large modified leaf with vibrant coloration (called the 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲). Perhaps most symbolic of all, albeit unintentional, is the heart-shaped disposition of the spathe, especially in varities with white, pink, or red pigmentation. It's selection is not simply due to the aesthetics--the thick, waxy cuticle of the plant makes it extremely resilient in the tropical heat, allowing it to last for a considerable period of time, even without being watered. 𝘼𝙣𝙩𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙪𝙢 spp. is the impression of the persisting and rigorous love of Filipinos to their dearly departed and to one another. An instance visibly portrayed in our annual visits to generations of final resting places, even in inclement weather, searing heat, and inconvenient circumstances.
The UP Tacloban Biological Society joins every family across the globe on this sanctimonious day. Among many of its commitments, our organization does not only appreciate the value of life, but also laments in its lost. Much like the looming threat to biodiversity from human-induced damage--or families who bear the burden of witnessing the unjust passing of their loved ones because of system that sleeps like the dead in the face of crises--our organization extends its call, not just to remember, but also to act in the name of preservance.
Caption by Rian Calong
Pubmat by Jeliel Alcaraz
