TODAY marks the feast of "All Hallow's Day," generally known as "Halloween," that underscores the remembrance of our dearly departed loved ones.
Halloween is being observed in many countries, including the Philippines, on October 31 that steers towards the celebration of All Saints' Day on November 1 and All Souls' Day on November 2.
But this year, our national government regulates the commemoration of this tradition by closing all public and private cemeteries on those important dates to prevent crowding in bid to flatten the curve of Covid-19 infection. The holding of events and parties related to Halloween are also prohibited at this time.
Filipinos, however, did not skip the chance to visit their dead ahead as their way of expressing their affection to their departed loved ones.
Local artist Dwight Rosslyn Morana Jr. also never missed commemorating his yearly fondness for wearing his Halloween costume and makeup to underscore the importance of the celebration.
He said he already visited his departed parents and he is back to his usual fascination of wearing his favorite and chosen Halloween costume.
He was also interviewed by GMA regional television host Adrian Prieto recently about his steady commemoration of Halloween in his inventive and creative way.
"Yes, Covid-19 has halted all events including Halloween to be celebrated this year, and we all conveyed our cooperation because there is no cure yet to the virus. But Covid-19 cannot stop me from donning my Halloween costume even at the confines of our home. I love to wear the costume. It's my way of expressing my creativity, elation, and resilience as I am not giving up hope versus Covid-19. Yes, event organizing has been badly affected by Covid-19. But I will never lose hope that sooner, we will be back on track," he said.
Indeed, creative ideas should be constantly explored so that when the normal condition is back, one has a reservoir of it which makes it easier to organize and execute.
Dwight serves as the founder of the Association of Negros Designers, founder and President of the Negros Event & Wedding Planners Association, and producer of the Negros Fashion Week.